• Gear Myths? We’re Not Having It.




    Recording Myths Busted: Separating Fact from Studio Fiction

    Do you really need expensive gear to make a great record? Is using the highest sample rate always the best idea? What about amps, EQs, and every other rabbit hole the internet loves to obsess over?

    In this myth-busting episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody throw shade (and a few laughs) at the most persistent recording setup whataboutisms. From gear snobbery to digital overkill, they break down what actually matters in your home studio gear setup—and what’s just smoke and mirrors.

    Along the way, they’ll name-check heavy hitters like CJ Vanston, Jeff Scott Soto, Eric Valentine, Dave Pensado, and yes, even Sir George Martin. Whether you’re debating converters with your inner engineer or wondering if a boutique EQ is really worth your rent money, this episode offers practical, honest advice with a healthy dose of perspective.

    You’ll also hear about this week’s Friday Finds, and as always… a little bit of nonsense.

    If you’re chasing better recordings, not just bigger myths—press play.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • The LA-2A: Deep Dive into Tube Tone and Timeless Control



    Level Up: Exploring the Iconic LA-2A Compressor

    This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody shine the spotlight on one of the most legendary compressors in recording history: the LA-2A Leveling Amplifier.

    From its tube-driven roots to its plugin-powered modern incarnations, the LA-2A has shaped countless vocals, basslines, and mixes. But what makes it so beloved? And how can you best use it in your own workflow?

    Chris and Jody walk through a quick history of the LA-2A — from the original Teletronix units to modern versions by Universal Audio, Waves, and others. They break down its simple two-knob interface, explain how the optical compression circuit works, and share how they use it in both hardware and software form.

    Whether you’re wondering if you should use one on vocals, bass, or a full mix bus — or you’re just trying to decide if the plugin emulation is worth it — this episode delivers practical guidance for home studio users and pros alike.

    Plus, of course, a dash of signature Chris & Jody nonsense. Because what’s a classic compressor without a few side jokes?

    And if you’re keeping score at home, the Logic emulation is called ‘Vintage Opto’.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • Types of EQ You Need to Know for Mixing and Recording

    EQ Demystified: What to Cut, What to Boost, and Why

    Equalization: It’s one of the most essential — and most misunderstood — tools in the recording and mixing process. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive deep into the mysterious world of EQ, breaking down the most common types, what they do, and how to use them like a pro.

    Should you be boosting? Cutting? Or doing both? What’s the real difference between corrective EQ and creative EQ? The duo explores how each approach plays a role depending on whether you’re shaping tone, fixing issues, or adding that elusive polish to a mix.

    From shelves and bells to parametric sculpting and subtractive strategies, you’ll get a clear, practical breakdown that helps you move beyond guesswork — no matter your DAW or skill level.

    Whether you’re working with vocals, guitars, or full mixes, this episode offers recording setup tips and home studio gearadvice that can elevate your sound instantly. Plus, as always, you can count on a dash of nonsense and a few unexpected audio metaphors along the way.

    We do give a little tribute to Eddie Van Halen in this episode as well.

    Shoutout to: Waves, Fab Filter, Pultec, iZotope, Maag, Marcel Jacob, BOSS, Steven Slate, Seymour Duncan, TSE Bass Overdrive, BOSS GT-1000CORE, and Justin Sayne.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • Meet the 1176: It’s Old, It’s Loud, and It’s Kind of a Big Deal in this Deep Dive



    1176 Unplugged: The Iconic Compressor Unboxed

    This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody throw the spotlight on one of the most legendary pieces of gear in audio history — the 1176 compressor. If you’ve heard the name but never quite understood what makes it such a cornerstone in music production, you’re about to get a full breakdown.

    From its roots as a game-changing hardware unit to its many software emulations, the 1176’s journey is one worth tracking — pun intended. Chris & Jody walk through the evolution of this FET-based compressor, breaking down what it actually does, how its controls work, and why engineers across genres still reach for it today.

    We’ll also explore the differences between hardware clones and plugin versions from brands you know (and some you might not). Whether you’re working in a home studio or a full-on mix room, understanding how to dial in an 1176 can bring punch, clarity, and personality to your sound.

    Oh — and in true Chris & Jody fashion, don’t be surprised if things veer into the realm of nonsense. It wouldn’t be an episode without it.

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