Hey I just found you, and I’ve been recovering music after nearly 20 years of silence, my son play drums and are into rap...xxxtentacion.... he is into UA-cam as well, and he have begged for a better computer and microphones. So now I have bought him A new win computer, ID14 Audio Interface, SE Electronics X1S Studio Bundle, fluid studio speakers. In my search for what to buy to him (this is going to be Christmas gifts) I have rediscovered my love for music and making music.... So I just want to say thank you for great contents and good music, it has inspired me. Have a marvellous weekend. Andreas from Sweden.
Hi Friends! Thanks ever so much for your amazing questions! WE are blessed to have such a marvellous community of people here who help each other and these questions are a,marvellous extension of that! I started Produce Like A Pro because my career exactly mirrors how we everyone is now developing their skills! I didn't have any family or friends at a label or studio, I didn't;t even go to Music School, I started making money in music at 16, (not much Haha) but just enough to pay the bills for my meagre existence! I did what I loved, it was a struggle at times, however I feel blessed! Please let us know what is your story? Have a marvellous time recording and mixing my friends!
Starting playing music as a child, and would jam and write with my brother. We formed band and wrote a tone of material using a Yamaha ag16G our Drummers Dad was a audio engineer, so I took in everything I could from him. Bough a bunch of books, the next purchase was a Allen and Heath 24ZDFX, with USB. Now we are finally getting into outboard gear. The knowledge you provide is very helpful, Thanks Warren
Im here, thx for the FB invite. I usually watch on my game console, so I don't get to like and comment, and I know how important it is to the algorithm to get your videos out to people. It is the least I can do for all the help, advice, and knowledge you give to the community. Thanks Warren great video as always!!!!!!!!
Liquid Studio Productions Thanks ever so much my friend! Glad you were able to join us my friend! I’m so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
I watch tonnes of videos to learn about mixing and i luckily i found your channel in August 2018. Although I'm started as a Dance/Electronic producers but I think your videos about mixing are the best because they always go back to the basics that we need to know for producers for every genre of music. I am very appreciate your intention to help producers and mix engineers by uploading good content videos for free. Thank you Warren, I will keep on support your channel and learn from you.
Very inspiring! It's so true that great music is about variety and experimentation, yet there has been a void for a long time. Warren, it's great to see you encouraging and championing a return to traditional values. I am your age and have been fortunate to work with many of the top recording acts of the 70's and 80's, so I can certainly relate. Back in the day we had to be very good just to survive. There was huge creativity, musicians worked very hard and risks were taken that resulted in amazing music. In recent years the bar has been much lower. I would love nothing more than to see a return to a music industry where artists strive to be the very best and most creative they can be, making music that we would still want to listen to in 40 years.
Hey Warren! I really aprecciate what you're doing here on youtube. I just wanted to thank you for all these FAQ's and other stuff you're uploading. Keep up the good work man! Wish you best :). Greetings from Poland.
Pongtsu Jamir I only EQ if high passing street or ac noise! I’m happy to compress on the way in, however if you’re unsure then I would wait until afterwards!
Thanks Warren! People keep tell me that I should change and become the extrovert type to better succeed in my career, but your words encouraged me to keep following the path I feel right for me, and not the one THEY want for me. ;-)
Hi Andrea Ocello Marvellous comment my friend! I know it’s hard to believe my friend, but I was a very shy child! I wasn’t out going at all and it took me a long time to be able to ask for what I wanted and get the things we all deserve! All I can say my friend is you are in the right place! I believe in the support of our community! Thanks for being a part of it!
WARREN!! How could you skip over Need Your Loving Tonight from the Game? I LOVE that song! haha. Appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience. I've learned a lot, thanks.
It depends. What genre of music you play, the area you live in and if partying is a priority. Speaking for myself only, playing in death metal-Grind bands has proved to be difficult in making money. Playing in Portland,OR is a challenge since there are HUNDREDS of bands wanting the same thing. Greedy promoters will pay the national touring act and pocket the rest. Pay To Play concerts are a waste of time. The only time I made a income was a pop-punk rock band I played drums in. We filled the clubs with people that paid the cover charge. Had a great connection for band shirts. Sold out very quick and had a great turn around for new merch. The sound engineer was also the promoter at said club. A longtime friend of my singer, she always made sure we got the bulk of the door money. So yes? No? I believe it's how you apply yourself and putting on a great, not good, GREAT performance. And not being a drug and alcohol riddled mess.
In my experience, on whatever you do your work needs to be excellent in or ahead time, you need to advertise (that may include social media), and you need to be a person others want to work with. If you do that, it may take time, but work will find you. And the idea of splitting the microphone signal and recording it with two different levels, is awesome! I need to figure out how to do that with a condenser mic. Thank you so much again! You've helped me in so many ways.
Hello, Warren. Greetings from Ecuador, you are truly an inspiration. I wanted to ask you about the levels I should handle when it comes to upload a song to UA-cam or any of the digital music platforms people use these days. Thank you so much and keep being amazing 🔥
Yea this is a great question. I’m sure many of us master our own music and i know I’ve struggled with final levels for different platforms. Is it better to have the platform bring the level up or down on our song? Or should we be mastering a version for each different platform? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this Warren. Cheers.
I've been wondering where you post FAQ friday so glad that was answered. Wondering if you have answered this but i was wondering, how do you set up your mac for recording? Do you write direct to your Lacie hard drives or do you write to your internal drive and save copy in for back up?
Thank you Warren! Great questions/aswers. Unfortunately at the moment I can't think of any question or add something (that is useful). Just wanted to say Thanks and have a great weekend!
Hi Warren! Let me start by saying that I love the way you go in-depth on you subjects, tutorials, FAQ's, you name it! It is good to have a professional like you amongst the inexperienced like us! I have a question about acoustic treatment: Acoustic treatment is the next big thing on my wish list. My studio is based in a small room, what are your tips for placing what, where? Types of panels, size, etc... Thanks, and greetings from the Netherlands!
Hello Warren, my question for the next Q&A is this. I came across such situation many times when my clients came to me for a final help. Many people/artists going to super-duper-pro-studios for mixing their tracks but often the engineers that working there are specialized in a certain style. They fail the task because they usually mixing pop or rock and the client comes with a club or a dance track. They don't do their research or don't have enough experience in the so called "latest trends". How many times you came across such situation. What a truly versatile engineer should do to satisfy as many clients as possible.
Hi, Warren. Fantastic Q & A. I agree with you regarding the variety in the music albums. I have a question to your next Q & A: As you know I am Spanish, but I am beginning to write songs in English. Do you have any advice on this topic? Are there any restrictions or "forbidden" words?.
Hi Warren! I'd like to ask what is your take on different daws sounding differently? And if they do then how would you describe the difference and would you recommend any of them for certain genres of music over the others? Thank you!
I am currently recording using a 15 year old M-Audio USB interface. Do you think buying a newer interface, that is comparable, would significantly improve the sound quality of the original tracks being recorded?
I use two M-Audio Profire 2626's as my interfaces between Allen & Heath analogue mixer and macbook. I find the profires are really good ad/da coverters for me. I give praise to M-audio quality. And the preamps are good enough for recording too.
Marvellous question! I would echo everyone here and say, yes, making music is the most important thing! However, even the cheapest IO (maybe around $200-300) is going to definitely be an improvement. The point is, however, do you have the spare money? If not keep doing your craft and save money towards it!
I just want to capture those awesome performances in the cleanest and highest quality I can, and was wondering if a newer IO would make that big a difference in the quality of the sound. Hence making the mixing process easier. Thank you all for your thoughts.
Hey Warren, As always your cut through the b.s. approach to the FAQ topics is greatly appreciated. I realize it could take many hours for you to elaborate on a subject like this but here goes. How would you characterize the production techniques on the great records of 1975 an era that obviously impacted and informed your beliefs, philosophy and approach as a producer? Physical Graffiti, A Night At The Opera, Heart Like A Wheel, Wish You Were Here, Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy, One Of These Nights, etc. What an incredible period to be turned on to amazing music!
Thanks ever so much for your Marvellous question and comment! I'm so glad to be able to help! Yes!! S much amazing albums my friend!! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
What about inserting a hardware compressor after the mic preamp? Set the treshold above the soft phrases. Use a ratio of 3/1 with a fast attack & slow release. These things are designed for that purpose and you gonna compress your performance anyway. It also doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. I am not a singer but I can imagine that you can’t give yourself 100% if you have to lower down the gain while you have to sing that powerfull vocalline. Ooh, if you do use a Y-splitter, be carefull with phantom power. You don want to fry your 2nd pre-amp!
BOY do I agree! Great, great takes and great advice. This is one of my top 5 fave UA-cam channels out of the 150 I sub to. Keep putting out awesome videos with awesome advice like this one! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
OK, that read too fanboy. Specifically I'm talking about making songs on the same album sound different. I couldn't agree more. There's literally no reason not to, with today's technology. And I think it makes the album more listenable over the long run.
Hey warren, I was hoping you could elaborate on mixing at 85db. I tried to calibrate my speakers using -20db pink noise and an spl meter and it seems excessively loud. Is my master bus peaking too high or am I missing something? Thanks, as ever, for all the amazing content!
very encouraging and positive FaQ....i have to be honest, be it in the local music scene, or in the union concrete trade...the law ive learned in the last 30 years is ... its who you know ...i do think that hard work does pay off and i love that you always keep reminding us to stay positive ...attitude is everything...there will always be nepotism but i love how after watching these videos i come away... ..hopeful thanks warren for all you do
Hi Warren! Might be a stupid question, but how do you deal with songs you received for mixing, and you don't like, or even can't stand 'em? Do you have any methods for 'not bothering', or you just simply refuse to mix? Thank you a lot!
Tamás Király do you mean a specific genre or just a song that sucks? If it’s a genre thing then specialize in one that you love. If it’s a sucky song then respectfully let the artist know that it’s not a good fit for your style of mixing.
Hey Warren. I have a question on studio musicians. When you hire someone to play is it all done by ear or do you write out the parts or is it something as simple as a lead sheet?
So true about the variety between songs on the greatest albums. I love the sound of the old Boston albums, I really love the audio for Pink Floyd's 'Delicate sound of Thunder', I think its the best audio PF ever produced including the albums. Such a great live production sound.
Warren, for recording classic rock vocals in the box would you fatten them up by actually singing a double or will copying to a new track with a slight delay and different EQ work just as well? Thanks for yet another very interesting FAQ Friday!
Referring to the gain staging question, could you run your mic directly to a compressor then after, into your preamp chain? Just attenuated the the mic itself. ?
Marvellous question! I do know a couple of people, Bryan Carlstrom who used to use an LA2a as a Mic Pre as well as a Compressor! So yes it can be done, however I wouldn't recommend it personally! I'm so glad to be able to help in any way I can! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
Any thought on using two completely different microphones on a vocal take? For example I’ve been using/experimenting with an ADK A51TC tube condenser and an AEA R84 ribbon at the same while tracking lead Vox and almost feel like I don’t need to EQ when I capture “the take”. I’m sure it’s been done before in one fashion or another but don’t hear about it from top guys. Love all your videos and all the info you share, thanks so much
It was mentioned in your feedback Friday while Eric was doing his hair, about liking your answer to "what is your stance..." question, I simply have to second you on your answer. Also look forward to getting better and playing and mixing to join in with some collaborations with people. I remember paying more to put a gig on than you could take on the door, It was just done for the pleasure of being the best we could :)
Sound advice (pun intended) as always, Warren! Technique, work ethic, the ability to work with other artists, and a bit of self-promotion are much more important than racks full of Distressors, Fairchilds, and PulTecs. Everyone starts with no or few connections. Build your portfolio and promote yourself to make new connections! Cheers from Chaz at Electric Owl Works in South Wales, NY USA.
about recording yourself and gain issues, what about managing the distance from the mic during lourder parts? i think thats a nice skill good singers have.
Hi Warren, thanks for yet another interesting video! I have a question: I agree with you that great records have variety. But don't you think that, in this era where everyday hundreds of records are released, it is better to keep a good level of homogeneity within the same release? That can help people recognize your work and your art in the ocean of music coming out day by day. What's your view on this? Thanks so much and keep up the great work!
Question: Adjusting recording levels - when I was younger there used to be Automated Gain Control on consumer level cassette recorders. This doesn‘t exist on professional level for like mic preamps?
When you were talking about young musicians it made me think about a band I've been listening to a lot recently, The Warning, they've just released their second album and I personally love it. Their first album XXI Century Blood (which I also love) was classic rock but their new album Queen Of The Murder Scene is a concept and is darker and heavier and is really something special. I mention it because they are three sisters, the youngest turned 14 yesterday and the oldest is only 18 and they write all their own songs and co-produced both albums and I'd really like to hear your opinion of them.
Hi Warren, As ever it's an inspiration. So thank you for that. Now, I'm the proud owner of a couple of Peluso Microphones; a P87 and a P12 and I think they're just great. But I would love to here what you make of them. All the best Bengt
Thanks for answering my question warren! Also, love the Game, one of my favourite queen albums, Dragon attack and Sail Away sweet sister are incredible deep cuts
Thanks, Warren. This was great! Here's my FAQ Friday question: I've been hiring pros to record my album with me. We are in different countries, recording in home studios or on the road. Deals are basically worked out in FB messenger and email. Do I need to be providing (or requesting) contracts? So far, I pay in advance, and they come through on their end... no paperwork involved. Not sure if that's doing it right, though.
Hey warren!! thanks a lot for this video, i would like to know your experience working with "The Fray" that band is a huge part of me liking music! have great day!
This could be a subjective question but nevertheless: When is low end, too much low end? I come from a fairly bass heavy world [ Industrial, Techno, EDM, Rock/Hybrid Music ]. Often I find doing a 24/48db highpass filter with a Q resonating a bit on the root note of the song to work rather well...but other times it feels I loose some of that serious low end. I am talking about the 25-50Hz area.
Really enjoy your streams :) On the gain-riding thing, hasn't anyone made a foot swell-pedal pre-amp yet? hmmmm ... Anyway, a question for your Friday FAQ ... As someone from UK looking at getting some music out online, what organisations or societies would you recommend registering with to cover your arse online with stuff like band/project names, copyrights, publishing rights, performing rights, etc.? Thanks and all the best :D
Love what you are doing. My biggest problem(and it has been since I started recording and mixing in the box in 1998) has been the bottom end. I mainly mix on headphones. I do listen on my Alesis Monitor one speakers, put the music on my MP3 player, CD in the Car and they also sound good. However, when I listen on my computer that has stereo speakers and a Sub-Woofer and crank the sub-woofer to the max I get a lot of nasty sound, especially at peaks in the low end. I have side chained the low end(78 and below) as I saw you do in an Ikmultimedia demo. No such luck. the only way I seem to get rid of it is to bring it down in level. But then it gets lost in the mix on everything else. I listen to your demos on these computer speakers and your low end is fine. Also all other commercially mixed songs are fine. How can I fix this?
High pass at 40? You could also invest into a subwoofer... one thing that's helpful is using izotope's tonal balance control where you get a visual curve to compare to.
I think everybody who work hard and offer quality can find work....:) Just be yourself and with that you let people choose natural for you...Honesty...
What do you think of Glyn Johns recording of Eric Clapton 2016 album, using only 16 channels on an analogue desk for all vocals and instruments to a 16 channel tape, no over dubbing done. Just like in the 60's and 70's.
With old gear. Is there anyway to use a firewire audio interface/control surface to work like plug and play usb like control surfaces? For example, like the Mackie or Faderport control surfaces.
I don’t really understand your question, Sheila... Are you talking about modifying/automating vintage gear so that you can control it with a GUI or a hardware wing? I doubt that this is your question but if so, yes that’s possible, but a very expensive mod. Also, this apparatus will lose his value completely. But again, I suppose that’s not your question...
@@Kevin-vq6rv I have an old M-Audio Project Mix I/O. Can it be modified to work with usb compliant computers and DAWs like the Faderport 8 and Mackie control surface?
Ok, now I get it. Well, firstly Firewire & USB are not handshake compatible, so that's out of the question. However, you can use the Midi in & Midi out to use the M-Audio as a wing/controller. Obviously, you need a midi interface hooked up to your computer and your wing hooked up via Midi cables to your Midi interface so that your DAW can send and receive commands from and to the wing. You also need to “teach” your DAW the commands that wing sends out and "understands". If you only want fader and transport functions automated, this can be done fairly quickly. There has to be a page in your DAW settings for “midi mapping” as well as a “Learn” button. First, select your Midi interface driver as the controller. Now, if you press “Learn” and you move fader1 on the wing, the mapping software registers that command. Then you can add a function to that command, in this case, Volume control fader1 in your DAW. Repeat this procedure for every command that you want to automate. This the basic principle. The easiest and fastest way to figure this out is to open the manual of the DAW to the corresponding chapter. I know that this is boring, but I am afraid you have too. Once you are done with it, this will make your workflow faster and easier and you never ever have to do it again. I hope this helps. Have fun!
I think while there is an era in politics full of losses also in freedom (tribalism is so narrow and full of fear of the "other" if you have to live it), there is growing freedom in music production. Like in the sixties, huge diversity in music should become able again to inspire society. I mean, diversity within the work of artists. They show freedom in doing so different stuff. Hopefully...
Hi Warren, You hit it out of the park on this one. You lil "rant" about the way late 90's rock music sounds I couldn't agree more with. I could go on a rant with you for hours on that lol.I really think diversity really needs to make a come back especially on albums. I miss the days when albums took you on a journey not every song sounded the same. My icon album is Master of Puppets. You have Battery kicking it off, fast and furious then master of puppets which takes you on an 8 min journey, Sanitarium which slows things down a bit and is a beautiful song in the verses,Orion an instrumental masterpiece in my mind, I could go on. That album is my "Night at the Opera". God I love Master of Puppets. The only thing I would add to your video and I'm sure you'll agree is no, you don't have to be social but there's an up side to being a social person. If you're pleasant ,respectful, open minded, funny,personable and fun to be around but get results, you'll have a lot easier time making money in music. People remember the ones that made recording fun and an enjoyable experience plus helped their music reach the potential or get closer to the potential of where they wanna be. Or even just an album they can be proud of. Just be genuine about it. I learned these skills from sales as well. Except I was the guy you slammed the door on. I used to sell gas rates so I learned the hard way after having the door slammed on my face or being called every name in the book lol. Glad I left that job at 24 .
Do you ever get tired of THAT sound? Like, i mean the whole SM57 on the Snaren MD421 on the toms, "typical" combinations? Would it enhance the world of music to add more variety to our mic choices by avoiding the "old standbys"? Or is it just a matter of these mics having the best voicing for picking up that specific instrument?
Hi Warren, is there a community where I can send my mixed song and ask a singer to record his voice to it? I am a songwriter and am producing my songs, but I am a very bad singer….. In exchange I could offer my bass, guitar and keyboard skills in the same way. Is there something like that?
I worked the hardest at trying to get as much variety as I could between all my songs that were done on tape, and then to order them, so they kind of told a story, yet transitioned one after the next well. I would wait until I had accrued several songs, and then think about how to group them into a sort of story like album. At some point I knew I needed to edit lengths to make nearly everything shorter. Ha! True though. I think I thought if I tried to write songs it would help force me to write everything shorter or edit it way down. 😂 Still trying.
two questions. back in the day you asked a place to play. showed them a tape. and got booked.. today I hear you have to pay to play.. I think that's not right. what about printing up cds and selling them hand by hand.. instead of getting less then pennies pros cons im based
My experience in the UK was I only got paid when I did a covers gig at a Night Club or Working Men's Club! Sometimes in the 80's as a teenager we paid to play at a few London Venues, however it was only local Pubs in the backrooms that we could play! We used to pout on our won shows at places we paid for, Church Halls etc. It was a lot of hard work!
Produce Like A Pro yes it was. Hard work I was a keyboardist and it took me longer to set up. Back in the day as well we played many places and fest. We didn't have to pay . We got paid what every the cost 35-400 or so some where free. Played in a band 8 years central fla. I'm still writing world renowned recording artist Michael Guardian Music. Lov your talk. Question 2 would it be better selling CDs to anyone then streaming for less then pennies. Thanks from across the pond
16914 marvellous question! Selling CDs at shows is a great way to go!! I would suggest that! Steaming can be lucrative if you can get your artist out here!
Haha indeed, interesting! Al Schmitt was telling me about working the Volume on the sessions with all of the greats! For me, with Steven Tyler, he worked the mic great, however as an Engineer I still rode the gain to get the best results! Al's experience is from Frank Sinatra and many others of that caliber.
HI@@Kevin-vq6rv, I know people like to trash talk NIckelback, but it's my understanding that Warren is talking about records made by a very narrow band of people. Nickleback may have plagiarised from themselves but don't share those same guys who made every record of that time period.
Thanks for the hours & hours of no-bs content Warren. Never get enough of it.
Hi Rania, thanks ever so much my friend! I am so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
Hey I just found you, and I’ve been recovering music after nearly 20 years of silence, my son play drums and are into rap...xxxtentacion.... he is into UA-cam as well, and he have begged for a better computer and microphones. So now I have bought him A new win computer, ID14 Audio Interface, SE Electronics X1S Studio Bundle, fluid studio speakers. In my search for what to buy to him (this is going to be Christmas gifts) I have rediscovered my love for music and making music.... So I just want to say thank you for great contents and good music, it has inspired me. Have a marvellous weekend. Andreas from Sweden.
Hi Friends! Thanks ever so much for your amazing questions! WE are blessed to have such a marvellous community of people here who help each other and these questions are a,marvellous extension of that! I started Produce Like A Pro because my career exactly mirrors how we everyone is now developing their skills! I didn't have any family or friends at a label or studio, I didn't;t even go to Music School, I started making money in music at 16, (not much Haha) but just enough to pay the bills for my meagre existence! I did what I loved, it was a struggle at times, however I feel blessed! Please let us know what is your story? Have a marvellous time recording and mixing my friends!
Great video warren, very informative and thought provoking!
Amazing information as usual Warren!
Thanks ever so much Darlene!
Thank ever so much Apple!
Starting playing music as a child, and would jam and write with my brother. We formed band and wrote a tone of material using a Yamaha ag16G our Drummers Dad was a audio engineer, so I took in everything I could from him. Bough a bunch of books, the next purchase was a Allen and Heath 24ZDFX, with USB. Now we are finally getting into outboard gear.
The knowledge you provide is very helpful, Thanks Warren
I love the collaborations of different music styles. Great video, Warren!
I agree 100% Sheila!!
Thanks for these Q&A videos, Warren. Your engagement with your community is unparalleled!
I spend too much time watching your videos instead of recording my own stuff...
Renato Alves truth
Ah so it's not only me then :)
Aw shucks Renato! I'm glad to be able to help my friend! I really appreciate all of your support and I wish your all he best in your musical career!
Haha indeed Martin! Haha
Haha thanks Shad!
Im here, thx for the FB invite. I usually watch on my game console, so I don't get to like and comment, and I know how important it is to the algorithm to get your videos out to people. It is the least I can do for all the help, advice, and knowledge you give to the community. Thanks Warren great video as always!!!!!!!!
Liquid Studio Productions Thanks ever so much my friend! Glad you were able to join us my friend! I’m so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
I watch tonnes of videos to learn about mixing and i luckily i found your channel in August 2018. Although I'm started as a Dance/Electronic producers but I think your videos about mixing are the best because they always go back to the basics that we need to know for producers for every genre of music. I am very appreciate your intention to help producers and mix engineers by uploading good content videos for free. Thank you Warren, I will keep on support your channel and learn from you.
It’s inspiring how hard you work Warren, it was nice to hear about your early musical experiences.
Thanks ever is much my friend! That really means a lot!!
Very inspiring! It's so true that great music is about variety and experimentation, yet there has been a void for a long time. Warren, it's great to see you encouraging and championing a return to traditional values. I am your age and have been fortunate to work with many of the top recording acts of the 70's and 80's, so I can certainly relate. Back in the day we had to be very good just to survive. There was huge creativity, musicians worked very hard and risks were taken that resulted in amazing music. In recent years the bar has been much lower. I would love nothing more than to see a return to a music industry where artists strive to be the very best and most creative they can be, making music that we would still want to listen to in 40 years.
Hey Warren! I really aprecciate what you're doing here on youtube. I just wanted to thank you for all these FAQ's and other stuff you're uploading. Keep up the good work man! Wish you best :). Greetings from Poland.
Hey Warren, your content are always very helpful! Thank you so much. Question - EQ & Compression -- During or After Recording??
Pongtsu Jamir I only EQ if high passing street or ac noise! I’m happy to compress on the way in, however if you’re unsure then I would wait until afterwards!
@@Producelikeapro Thank you so much for your insight... 👍
Oh my God.
You worked with Lee Anderton.
He´s an amazing guy I must say. Always happy on his videos.
Really love their content.
Yes! Lee is a great guy!!
@@Producelikeapro when next in the UK do an andertons, The Captain meets interview!
You nailed it on Social Media. It's what I call Connection Disconnection.
Thanks Warren! People keep tell me that I should change and become the extrovert type to better succeed in my career, but your words encouraged me to keep following the path I feel right for me, and not the one THEY want for me. ;-)
Hi Andrea Ocello Marvellous comment my friend! I know it’s hard to believe my friend, but I was a very shy child! I wasn’t out going at all and it took me a long time to be able to ask for what I wanted and get the things we all deserve! All I can say my friend is you are in the right place! I believe in the support of our community! Thanks for being a part of it!
Thanks a lot! Keep up the good work!
Andrea Ocello Thanks ever so much!!
WARREN!! How could you skip over Need Your Loving Tonight from the Game? I LOVE that song! haha. Appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience. I've learned a lot, thanks.
Haha I hear you! I should have mentioned every song!!
Thank you for being so thorough with your questions.
It depends. What genre of music you play, the area you live in and if partying is a priority. Speaking for myself only, playing in death metal-Grind bands has proved to be difficult in making money. Playing in Portland,OR is a challenge since there are HUNDREDS of bands wanting the same thing. Greedy promoters will pay the national touring act and pocket the rest. Pay To Play concerts are a waste of time.
The only time I made a income was a pop-punk rock band I played drums in.
We filled the clubs with people that paid the cover charge. Had a great connection for band shirts. Sold out very quick and had a great turn around for new merch. The sound engineer was also the promoter at said club. A longtime friend of my singer, she always made sure we got the bulk of the door money.
So yes? No? I believe it's how you apply yourself and putting on a great, not good, GREAT performance. And not being a drug and alcohol riddled mess.
In my experience, on whatever you do your work needs to be excellent in or ahead time, you need to advertise (that may include social media), and you need to be a person others want to work with. If you do that, it may take time, but work will find you.
And the idea of splitting the microphone signal and recording it with two different levels, is awesome! I need to figure out how to do that with a condenser mic. Thank you so much again! You've helped me in so many ways.
Hello, Warren. Greetings from Ecuador, you are truly an inspiration. I wanted to ask you about the levels I should handle when it comes to upload a song to UA-cam or any of the digital music platforms people use these days. Thank you so much and keep being amazing 🔥
Yea this is a great question. I’m sure many of us master our own music and i know I’ve struggled with final levels for different platforms. Is it better to have the platform bring the level up or down on our song? Or should we be mastering a version for each different platform? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this Warren. Cheers.
I've been wondering where you post FAQ friday so glad that was answered. Wondering if you have answered this but i was wondering, how do you set up your mac for recording? Do you write direct to your Lacie hard drives or do you write to your internal drive and save copy in for back up?
Thank you Warren! Great questions/aswers.
Unfortunately at the moment I can't think of any question or add something (that is useful).
Just wanted to say Thanks and have a great weekend!
Haha thanks ever so much Martin!! You Rock!!
Hi Warren! Let me start by saying that I love the way you go in-depth on you subjects, tutorials, FAQ's, you name it! It is good to have a professional like you amongst the inexperienced like us! I have a question about acoustic treatment: Acoustic treatment is the next big thing on my wish list. My studio is based in a small room, what are your tips for placing what, where? Types of panels, size, etc... Thanks, and greetings from the Netherlands!
On point everything you said!!!
Wow! Thanks ever so much my friend!!
Hello Warren, my question for the next Q&A is this. I came across such situation many times when my clients came to me for a final help. Many people/artists going to super-duper-pro-studios for mixing their tracks but often the engineers that working there are specialized in a certain style. They fail the task because they usually mixing pop or rock and the client comes with a club or a dance track. They don't do their research or don't have enough experience in the so called "latest trends". How many times you came across such situation. What a truly versatile engineer should do to satisfy as many clients as possible.
Hi, Warren. Fantastic Q & A. I agree with you regarding the variety in the music albums.
I have a question to your next Q & A: As you know I am Spanish, but I am beginning to write songs in English. Do you have any advice on this topic? Are there any restrictions or "forbidden" words?.
Amazing information as usual Warren!
IWant Appledumplings Thanks ever so much!
It’s so much more interesting to hear a variety of songs on an album. Variety is the spice of life! Thanks for such a brilliant channel. Mark
Hi Warren! I'd like to ask what is your take on different daws sounding differently? And if they do then how would you describe the difference and would you recommend any of them for certain genres of music over the others? Thank you!
Thank you so much. So helpful for those of us who are just getting started recording.
I am currently recording using a 15 year old M-Audio USB interface. Do you think buying a newer interface, that is comparable, would significantly improve the sound quality of the original tracks being recorded?
I use two M-Audio Profire 2626's as my interfaces between Allen & Heath analogue mixer and macbook. I find the profires are really good ad/da coverters for me. I give praise to M-audio quality. And the preamps are good enough for recording too.
Not going to matter much. You're better off building a homemade vocal booth or installing a bass trap.
Marvellous question! I would echo everyone here and say, yes, making music is the most important thing! However, even the cheapest IO (maybe around $200-300) is going to definitely be an improvement. The point is, however, do you have the spare money? If not keep doing your craft and save money towards it!
I just want to capture those awesome performances in the cleanest and highest quality I can, and was wondering if a newer IO would make that big a difference in the quality of the sound. Hence making the mixing process easier. Thank you all for your thoughts.
Thank you Warren
You're very welcome!
Thank you for all your answers.
Have you ever used “Waves Vocal Rider” and if so what are your thoughts on this product?
Thanking you in Advance.
Hey Warren, As always your cut through the b.s. approach to the FAQ topics is greatly appreciated. I realize it could take many hours for you to elaborate on a subject like this but here goes. How would you characterize the production techniques on the great records of 1975 an era that obviously impacted and informed your beliefs, philosophy and approach as a producer? Physical Graffiti, A Night At The Opera, Heart Like A Wheel, Wish You Were Here, Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy, One Of These Nights, etc. What an incredible period to be turned on to amazing music!
Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy is my all time favorite album !
Thanks ever so much for your Marvellous question and comment! I'm so glad to be able to help! Yes!! S much amazing albums my friend!! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
Agreed Lance!!
What about inserting a hardware compressor after the mic preamp? Set the treshold above the soft phrases. Use a ratio of 3/1 with a fast attack & slow release. These things are designed for that purpose and you gonna compress your performance anyway. It also doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. I am not a singer but I can imagine that you can’t give yourself 100% if you have to lower down the gain while you have to sing that powerfull vocalline. Ooh, if you do use a Y-splitter, be carefull with phantom power. You don want to fry your 2nd pre-amp!
BOY do I agree! Great, great takes and great advice. This is one of my top 5 fave UA-cam channels out of the 150 I sub to. Keep putting out awesome videos with awesome advice like this one! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
OK, that read too fanboy. Specifically I'm talking about making songs on the same album sound different. I couldn't agree more. There's literally no reason not to, with today's technology. And I think it makes the album more listenable over the long run.
Thanks so much for the great answers. It's an exciting time to be in music these days. And now we can all really work the room with that cowbell!
It's a VERY exciting time David!!
Great video warren, very informative
Hi Darlene, thanks ever so much!
Hey warren, I was hoping you could elaborate on mixing at 85db. I tried to calibrate my speakers using -20db pink noise and an spl meter and it seems excessively loud. Is my master bus peaking too high or am I missing something?
Thanks, as ever, for all the amazing content!
very encouraging and positive FaQ....i have to be honest, be it in the local music scene, or in the union concrete trade...the law ive learned in the last 30 years is ... its who you know ...i do think that hard work does pay off and i love that you always keep reminding us to stay positive ...attitude is everything...there will always be nepotism but i love how after watching these videos i come away... ..hopeful
thanks warren
for all you do
8:55 YAS!
Hi Warren! Might be a stupid question, but how do you deal with songs you received for mixing, and you don't like, or even can't stand 'em? Do you have any methods for 'not bothering', or you just simply refuse to mix? Thank you a lot!
Tamás Király do you mean a specific genre or just a song that sucks? If it’s a genre thing then specialize in one that you love. If it’s a sucky song then respectfully let the artist know that it’s not a good fit for your style of mixing.
Hey Warren. I have a question on studio musicians. When you hire someone to play is it all done by ear or do you write out the parts or is it something as simple as a lead sheet?
"Make Music Interesting Again! Haha love it Warren!
So true about the variety between songs on the greatest albums. I love the sound of the old Boston albums, I really love the audio for Pink Floyd's 'Delicate sound of Thunder', I think its the best audio PF ever produced including the albums. Such a great live production sound.
Chris Dover Thanks for sharing your insight my friend! Agreed! Variety is the spice of life!
Warren, for recording classic rock vocals in the box would you fatten them up by actually singing a double or will copying to a new track with a slight delay and different EQ work just as well? Thanks for yet another very interesting FAQ Friday!
@MorbidManMusic Will try, thanks for the input!
Thank you for this Warren! Love your content and it's always very helpful!
Thanks ever son much Justin!!
It's about resourcefulness.
Yes Chris!!
Referring to the gain staging question, could you run your mic directly to a compressor then after, into your preamp chain? Just attenuated the the mic itself. ?
Just thinking in the same manor as plugging a guitar straight into a compression pedal.
Marvellous question! I do know a couple of people, Bryan Carlstrom who used to use an LA2a as a Mic Pre as well as a Compressor! So yes it can be done, however I wouldn't recommend it personally! I'm so glad to be able to help in any way I can! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
Any thought on using two completely different microphones on a vocal take? For example I’ve been using/experimenting with an ADK A51TC tube condenser and an AEA R84 ribbon at the same while tracking lead Vox and almost feel like I don’t need to EQ when I capture “the take”. I’m sure it’s been done before in one fashion or another but don’t hear about it from top guys. Love all your videos and all the info you share, thanks so much
It was mentioned in your feedback Friday while Eric was doing his hair, about liking your answer to "what is your stance..." question, I simply have to second you on your answer.
Also look forward to getting better and playing and mixing to join in with some collaborations with people.
I remember paying more to put a gig on than you could take on the door, It was just done for the pleasure of being the best we could :)
Sound advice (pun intended) as always, Warren! Technique, work ethic, the ability to work with other artists, and a bit of self-promotion are much more important than racks full of Distressors, Fairchilds, and PulTecs. Everyone starts with no or few connections. Build your portfolio and promote yourself to make new connections! Cheers from Chaz at Electric Owl Works in South Wales, NY USA.
Thanks Warren.
Do you have any suggestions of websites etc to list your credits and producer/recording/mix engineer etc?
Hi Music Ting yes! I would check out AllMusic.com
about recording yourself and gain issues, what about managing the distance from the mic during lourder parts? i think thats a nice skill good singers have.
I agree Fred! However, singers learn that as they go! Everyone's starts off overly dynamic and then learns through heater technique!
@@Producelikeapro heater technique, thaks! allways learning from you guys! love the content! thanks for all the geek love!
Hi Warren, thank you, always a pleasure to watch your channel, all the best Darren Ross.
Hi Warren, thanks for yet another interesting video!
I have a question: I agree with you that great records have variety.
But don't you think that, in this era where everyday hundreds of records are released, it is better to keep a good level of homogeneity within the same release?
That can help people recognize your work and your art in the ocean of music coming out day by day.
What's your view on this?
Thanks so much and keep up the great work!
Question: Adjusting recording levels - when I was younger there used to be Automated Gain Control on consumer level cassette recorders. This doesn‘t exist on professional level for like mic preamps?
Hey Warren, vocals I record are always piercing in the +7k range. I notch and de-ess but the Vox end up dull. Got any tips?
It's definitely a combination of De-Essing and boosting! Then of course I'm not afraid to turn down the excessive Esses etc!
Great warren yes it all makes full sense!!! thank you
Thanks ever so much Tyler! You Rocj my friend!!
When you were talking about young musicians it made me think about a band I've been listening to a lot recently, The Warning, they've just released their second album and I personally love it. Their first album XXI Century Blood (which I also love) was classic rock but their new album Queen Of The Murder Scene is a concept and is darker and heavier and is really something special. I mention it because they are three sisters, the youngest turned 14 yesterday and the oldest is only 18 and they write all their own songs and co-produced both albums and I'd really like to hear your opinion of them.
Hi Warren,
As ever it's an inspiration. So thank you for that. Now, I'm the proud owner of a couple of Peluso Microphones; a P87 and a P12 and I think they're just great. But I would love to here what you make of them.
All the best
Bengt
Thanks for answering my question warren! Also, love the Game, one of my favourite queen albums, Dragon attack and Sail Away sweet sister are incredible deep cuts
I enjoy faq Friday!😁
Thanks, Warren. This was great! Here's my FAQ Friday question: I've been hiring pros to record my album with me. We are in different countries, recording in home studios or on the road. Deals are basically worked out in FB messenger and email. Do I need to be providing (or requesting) contracts? So far, I pay in advance, and they come through on their end... no paperwork involved. Not sure if that's doing it right, though.
Such kismet that you worked in Andetons. Guildford is my home town have been going there for over 40 years
That's amazing! Yes, Anderton's was then and still is a power house!!
Once a mix has been completed do you pack the tracks before mastering? If you are mastering it yourself.
Hey warren!! thanks a lot for this video, i would like to know your experience working with "The Fray" that band is a huge part of me liking music! have great day!
Aw shucks thanks ever so much Pablito!!
Variety is the spice of life. :)
This could be a subjective question but nevertheless: When is low end, too much low end? I come from a fairly bass heavy world [ Industrial, Techno, EDM, Rock/Hybrid Music ]. Often I find doing a 24/48db highpass filter with a Q resonating a bit on the root note of the song to work rather well...but other times it feels I loose some of that serious low end. I am talking about the 25-50Hz area.
Sebastian R. Komor reference similar songs
Oh I do use reference tracks. Yet I am fishing for some sort of "go to" approach. Or rule of thumb.
Sebastian R. Komor the approach is referencing and the rule of thumb is whatever sounds good.
Really enjoy your streams :) On the gain-riding thing, hasn't anyone made a foot swell-pedal pre-amp yet? hmmmm ... Anyway, a question for your Friday FAQ ... As someone from UK looking at getting some music out online, what organisations or societies would you recommend registering with to cover your arse online with stuff like band/project names, copyrights, publishing rights, performing rights, etc.? Thanks and all the best :D
Thoughts on storing condenser mics with silica gel packs???
Love what you are doing. My biggest problem(and it has been since I started recording and mixing in the box in 1998) has been the bottom end. I mainly mix on headphones. I do listen on my Alesis Monitor one speakers, put the music on my MP3 player, CD in the Car and they also sound good. However, when I listen on my computer that has stereo speakers and a Sub-Woofer and crank the sub-woofer to the max I get a lot of nasty sound, especially at peaks in the low end. I have side chained the low end(78 and below) as I saw you do in an Ikmultimedia demo. No such luck. the only way I seem to get rid of it is to bring it down in level. But then it gets lost in the mix on everything else. I listen to your demos on these computer speakers and your low end is fine. Also all other commercially mixed songs are fine. How can I fix this?
High pass at 40? You could also invest into a subwoofer... one thing that's helpful is using izotope's tonal balance control where you get a visual curve to compare to.
@@realraven2000 Thanks
I think everybody who work hard and offer quality can find work....:) Just be yourself and with that you let people choose natural for you...Honesty...
Great point my friend! I agree! Social Media is a great leveller!
What do you think of Glyn Johns recording of Eric Clapton 2016 album, using only 16 channels on an analogue desk for all vocals and instruments to a 16 channel tape, no over dubbing done. Just like in the 60's and 70's.
Hi George! That's perfect! I still do live recordings with that amount of mics or less! I don't believe that approach will ever go away!
Are you planning to come to Europe in 2019? So yes - When???
We have a few things in the works M-Mixing! :)
WOAH!!! You worked for Lee??? You should do a Captain Meets!! I watch both you guys! Great wells of knowledge!
With old gear. Is there anyway to use a firewire audio interface/control surface to work like plug and play usb like control surfaces? For example, like the Mackie or Faderport control surfaces.
I don’t really understand your question, Sheila... Are you talking about modifying/automating vintage gear so that you can control it with a GUI or a hardware wing? I doubt that this is your question but if so, yes that’s possible, but a very expensive mod. Also, this apparatus will lose his value completely. But again, I suppose that’s not your question...
@@Kevin-vq6rv I have an old M-Audio Project Mix I/O. Can it be modified to work with usb compliant computers and DAWs like the Faderport 8 and Mackie control surface?
Ok, now I get it. Well, firstly Firewire & USB are not handshake compatible, so that's out of the question. However, you can use the Midi in & Midi out to use the M-Audio as a wing/controller. Obviously, you need a midi interface hooked up to your computer and your wing hooked up via Midi cables to your Midi interface so that your DAW can send and receive commands from and to the wing. You also need to “teach” your DAW the commands that wing sends out and "understands". If you only want fader and transport functions automated, this can be done fairly quickly. There has to be a page in your DAW settings for “midi mapping” as well as a “Learn” button. First, select your Midi interface driver as the controller. Now, if you press “Learn” and you move fader1 on the wing, the mapping software registers that command. Then you can add a function to that command, in this case, Volume control fader1 in your DAW. Repeat this procedure for every command that you want to automate. This the basic principle. The easiest and fastest way to figure this out is to open the manual of the DAW to the corresponding chapter. I know that this is boring, but I am afraid you have too. Once you are done with it, this will make your workflow faster and easier and you never ever have to do it again. I hope this helps. Have fun!
@@Kevin-vq6rv Aw, thanks Kevin for your reply. I'll give it a try. You absolutely Rock!!!
ideal mic placement on cajon? in the studio vs live
I think while there is an era in politics full of losses also in freedom (tribalism is so narrow and full of fear of the "other" if you have to live it), there is growing freedom in music production. Like in the sixties, huge diversity in music should become able again to inspire society. I mean, diversity within the work of artists. They show freedom in doing so different stuff.
Hopefully...
The Captain meets Warren Huart. Make it Happen!
Hi Warren,
You hit it out of the park on this one. You lil "rant" about the way late 90's rock music sounds I couldn't agree more with. I could go on a rant with you for hours on that lol.I really think diversity really needs to make a come back especially on albums. I miss the days when albums took you on a journey not every song sounded the same. My icon album is Master of Puppets. You have Battery kicking it off, fast and furious then master of puppets which takes you on an 8 min journey, Sanitarium which slows things down a bit and is a beautiful song in the verses,Orion an instrumental masterpiece in my mind, I could go on. That album is my "Night at the Opera". God I love Master of Puppets.
The only thing I would add to your video and I'm sure you'll agree is no, you don't have to be social but there's an up side to being a social person. If you're pleasant ,respectful, open minded, funny,personable and fun to be around but get results, you'll have a lot easier time making money in music. People remember the ones that made recording fun and an enjoyable experience plus helped their music reach the potential or get closer to the potential of where they wanna be. Or even just an album they can be proud of. Just be genuine about it. I learned these skills from sales as well. Except I was the guy you slammed the door on. I used to sell gas rates so I learned the hard way after having the door slammed on my face or being called every name in the book lol. Glad I left that job at 24 .
Do you ever get tired of THAT sound? Like, i mean the whole SM57 on the Snaren MD421 on the toms, "typical" combinations? Would it enhance the world of music to add more variety to our mic choices by avoiding the "old standbys"? Or is it just a matter of these mics having the best voicing for picking up that specific instrument?
Yes to everything.😆
Hi Warren, is there a community where I can send my mixed song and ask a singer to record his voice to it? I am a songwriter and am producing my songs, but I am a very bad singer….. In exchange I could offer my bass, guitar and keyboard skills in the same way. Is there something like that?
I love variation. I try to make every album I make sound like a mix tape, sort of.
I worked the hardest at trying to get as much variety as I could between all my songs that were done on tape, and then to order them, so they kind of told a story, yet transitioned one after the next well. I would wait until I had accrued several songs, and then think about how to group them into a sort of story like album. At some point I knew I needed to edit lengths to make nearly everything shorter. Ha! True though.
I think I thought if I tried to write songs it would help force me to write everything shorter or edit it way down. 😂 Still trying.
Any chance you could pull off an interview with Serban Ghenea???
Thank you Warren! 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👌🎥 🎸 🎼🎶🎶🎶 🎤 💋
هعهعاتتو هههههه ٧ ٧ ٨ ٨هخههنتننه.زمتحه٦6ذ
أفهم ابتسامته أفضل من الرموز الهيروغليفية الخاصة بك.
It wasn't Kingfisher music in Fleet, was it?
Hi Jack Flower yes!! Kingfisher and Anderton’s!! Hope you’re well
Yes! Variety! Listen to A Perfect Circle's Mer de Noms.. not a single song is even similar to the other
two questions. back in the day you asked a place to play. showed them a tape. and got booked.. today I hear you have to pay to play.. I think that's not right. what about printing up cds and selling them hand by hand.. instead of getting less then pennies pros cons im based
My experience in the UK was I only got paid when I did a covers gig at a Night Club or Working Men's Club! Sometimes in the 80's as a teenager we paid to play at a few London Venues, however it was only local Pubs in the backrooms that we could play! We used to pout on our won shows at places we paid for, Church Halls etc. It was a lot of hard work!
Produce Like A Pro yes it was. Hard work I was a keyboardist and it took me longer to set up. Back in the day as well we played many places and fest. We didn't have to pay . We got paid what every the cost 35-400 or so some where free. Played in a band 8 years central fla. I'm still writing world renowned recording artist Michael Guardian Music. Lov your talk. Question 2 would it be better selling CDs to anyone then streaming for less then pennies. Thanks from across the pond
16914 marvellous question! Selling CDs at shows is a great way to go!! I would suggest that! Steaming can be lucrative if you can get your artist out here!
man you're right. if you're bored making it, its gonna sound boring.
FAQ. Why haven’t you been using the coffee cup that your wife gave you lately?
She gave them ALL to me! Haha So yes, I have!!
Or just use mic technique.
Pro Singers work the mic not the volume control.
Haha indeed, interesting! Al Schmitt was telling me about working the Volume on the sessions with all of the greats! For me, with Steven Tyler, he worked the mic great, however as an Engineer I still rode the gain to get the best results! Al's experience is from Frank Sinatra and many others of that caliber.
20:01 it is better to try something an take 7 minutes than it is to take 30 minutes arguing and derailing the session.
Eric Anderson agreed!! Thanks for highlighting that!!
You call it "tower". I call it trash can.
Haha I still use the 'Tower'! I haven't upgraded!
This channel has helped and inspired my brother and I so much we started our own channel of music. Please check us out. Thank you.
Official Second 2 None wow! Wonderful! I wish you all the best!
Nickelback wasn't so bad, to be honest. I do get your point though...
I wasn't thinking of Nickleback, did I mention them? I was talking about the whole approach to making Rock records in the late 90's and early 2000's.
No, but it is a late 90's band...
HI@@Kevin-vq6rv, I know people like to trash talk NIckelback, but it's my understanding that Warren is talking about records made by a very narrow band of people. Nickleback may have plagiarised from themselves but don't share those same guys who made every record of that time period.
Plausible...
A Kerbab? Huart, you're losing your Brit accent :-)
Haha that's exactly how I've always said it! In the US it's 'Key-Bob'!! I just asked my guys! Haha