What Does ‘phase offset equalizing’ Mean?
Phase offset in EQ is the phenomenon where a boost/cut in any frequency band via an EQ shifts the phase of that frequency region to the amplitude difference. In normal English, it means that when you a perfectly flat EQ (bypassed), all the frequencies in the spectrum...
Why is the Shure SM58 such an enduringly popular microphone for vocals?
The “58” is an absolute workhorse. It is probably the most used microphone in the world. Not only does it have some amazing sound (with proper EQ you can make anyone sound great), it’s also predictable (if you show up in a studio or venue and they have a “58” you’ll...
How can we change our voice from hard to soft?
My absolute favorite way of changing the tone and emotion of my voice delivery is to imagine. What do I mean by "Imagine"? Well, picture a single person in front of you....really picture them in your mind. Imagine what their face looks like. Are they young? Old? Male?...
How do I manage a music studio?
Apart from the studio-focussed questions that need to be considered, such as:What type of music will you record in your studio?Will you buy new or second-hand gear?Where will you advertise and do you have a budget for it?How much will you charge?Will you rent it to...
When would you prefer to record with a shotgun mic indoors?
Anytime is a good time for shotgun mics! They're not only for outdoor film shoots.Try them instead of your regular large-diaphragm condensers. Perhaps force yourself to use nothing but shotguns for one day. We love them for recording voice-overs at our studios. I...
Why do my mixes sound different on multiple players?
Remember the old "Yin-Yang" principle which states, "whenever you turn something up, something else disappears. Furthermore; whenever you turn something down, something else gets louder". This applies to EQ, levels and almost anywhere you have two or more tracks. You...
What is the cheapest functioning soundproofing material?
We need to first analyze what you actually need. Soundproofing means denying sound access to an area (ie: prevent sound from leaving your location and annoying the neighbors, or preventing outside sound from infiltrating your studio). This is generally done with mass....
What is the best way to place a microphone for acoustic guitar?
There are several ways up the mountain when miking an acoustic guitar in the recording studio. One of my all time favorites is using a clip-on lavalier mic! I find it to be the warmest and most detailed sound, but it also serves to solve another huge issue we have in...
How many audio tracks are in a typical pop song?
Great question! This varies quite a lot. It's akin to the question "how long is a piece of string?" Just speaking from experience in our studios, we've had everything from a simple two track recording (vocals and acoustic guitar), to huge productions with 114...
What is the best over the ear headphone under $100?
Headphones, like most things in life. are very subjective. What works for one person will not work for another. The best way to find out is to test them all. Go to the stores, bring your favorite songs, plug into each pair of studio headphones and start...