Inside The Mix | Music Production and Mixing Tips for Music Producers and Artists

Curious about mixing music or want to level up your music production skills? Join me in EP 168 of the Inside The Mix podcast as I sit down with Lij Shaw, award-winning producer and owner of the Grammy-awarded Toy Box Studio. Lij brings a wealth of experience and shares his practical approach to balancing the simplicity and complexity of music mixing. From gear discoveries on eBay to his insights as a longtime podcaster, Lij’s journey provides a unique perspective on dedication, community, and artistry in music.

In this episode, we tackle practical techniques to streamline your music production workflow, inspired by a listener's challenge to manage track organization and MIDI conversion. Lij and I explore how mix templates, separated technical tasks, and effective session setups can make mixing a smooth, enjoyable process. Plus, you’ll learn how tools like poetry scores can inspire lyrics, helping you produce creatively while staying efficient. Whether you're an aspiring producer or a pro, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and real-world advice.

In This Episode, you’ll Learn:

• Mixing Essentials: How to simplify your mixing workflow by rendering MIDI to WAV files and organising tracks for easy access
• Mix Templates: The benefits of using mix templates for a consistent, professional sound across your projects
• Creative Lyric Writing: Transforming poetry scores into lyrics and enhancing songwriting
• Effective Workflow Tips: Separating creative mixing from technical tasks to avoid burnout
• Stress-Free Recording: Setting up a comfortable recording environment for seamless production

Tune in and discover strategies to make mixing music and music production not only manageable but rewarding.

Click here to follow Lij Shaw: https://recordingstudiorockstars.com/
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Curious about how AI is reshaping the music industry? From enhancing creativity to streamlining production, artificial intelligence is sparking a new era in music. In Episode 167 of the Inside The Mix podcast, I sit down with platinum-selling producer David Lucius King to uncover how AI in the music industry is transforming the way artists create, produce, and perfect their tracks. If you've been asking questions like how is AI used in music? or which music artists use AI? —this episode is for you.

David shares his firsthand experiences with AI-powered tools, explaining how these innovations give artists unprecedented control while keeping the human touch that makes music memorable. Whether using AI to manage preliminary mixes or enhance creativity, David provides invaluable insights into combining innovation with tradition in the studio.

Imagine having a demo ready for A&R that’s both polished and professional—all without sacrificing creative energy. We dive into the benefits of pseudo-mixing and why outsourcing a preliminary mix to expert engineers can streamline the entire production process, especially for trap, hip-hop, and electronic genres. With AI tools on the rise, balancing efficiency and authenticity in music production has never been more possible.

Finally, we tackle the broader implications of AI, discussing its potential impact on jobs, workflows, and the timeless appeal of music. While AI might refine production, David and I agree—the heart of iconic music will always be human. Plus, tune in to hear our thoughts on how AI is opening new doors in podcasting, letting creators push boundaries in ways never before imagined.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• AI in Music Production: How AI tools like loop creators and audio processors are changing the creative landscape.
• Pseudo Mixing Explained: Benefits of outsourcing preliminary mixes for high-quality demos and reduced revision times.
• Balancing Speed and Quality: How to refine elements like low-end and vocals for commission-worthy tracks.
• The Future of AI in Music: Will AI ever match the timelessness of classics? Exploring what AI means for artists and listeners alike.
• AI’s Broader Impact: From potential job threats to creative freedom, examining AI’s role beyond the studio.

This episode will leave you excited for the future while grounded in the belief that music’s heart will always be human.

Click here to follow David Lucius King: https://www.instagram.com/davidluciusking/

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Ever asked yourself, how do you know if a mix is finished? If you’re wondering how to finish mixing a song or looking for tips on how to mix in Logic Pro, then this episode is for you. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, EP 166 of the Inside The Mix podcast will help you elevate your synthpop tracks and finish your mixes with confidence.

In this episode, I break down the essential techniques and tools for mastering your music production workflow in Logic Pro. Learn how to achieve a polished, professional sound by perfecting your compression and EQ strategies. From using a vintage opto compressor at a 1.5 to 1 ratio to ensuring your mix bus is ready for mastering, I'll guide you through every step of creating cohesive, captivating mixes. Plus, discover why subtle console EQ might be the secret ingredient your synthpop tracks need for that final touch of warmth and depth.

If you're eager to level up your skills, I’ve got a free mixing course along with downloadable project files, mixing templates, and resources to help you perfect your workflow in Logic Pro. Join me as I take you from raw stems to a polished, radio-ready mix.

We’ll cover:

• How to determine if your mix is truly finished
• Best practices for mixing in Logic Pro
• Using compression and EQ to glue your tracks together
• The importance of leaving your mix bus empty for mastering
• How console EQ can add warmth and colour to your synthpop mixes
• Practical mixing tips for handling drums, bass, synths, effects, and vocals
• Power of automation in shaping the stereo field and vocals

Download your FREE Logic Pro Mixing Tips Project Files:
Download project folders, stems, and my custom Logic Pro synthpop mixing template here.

Watch the podcast videos and tutorials:
Click here to dive deeper into mixing tips and tricks for synthpop music.

Listen to the podcast now:
Find all the latest tips for producers, artists, and musicians on Logic Pro mixing here.

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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
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Ever wondered what is mid-side EQ or how does mid-side EQ work? Is mid-side EQ essential for a professional-sounding mix? Tune in to EP 165 of the Inside The Mix podcast, where I sit down with distinguished mastering engineer and educator Ian Stewart to explore the ins and outs of mid-side EQ. Together, we unravel the techniques that can add width and clarity to your mix and transform your audio production skills.

We dive deep into the profound effects of manipulating mid and side channels to give your mix a wider stereo image and greater clarity. Ian takes us on a journey through the origins of mid-side EQ, sharing insights into how to control mid-channel loudness and boost side channels for professional stereo width. Learn how these principles can also be applied to EQ and compression for a polished, high-quality sound.

In this episode, we break down the art of mid-side recording, using directional and figure-eight microphones to craft a spacious stereo image. Ian also clears up common misconceptions around polarity and phase, helping you avoid typical pitfalls when setting up a mid-side stereo field.

Ian also provides a masterclass on how mid-side EQ impacts stereo balance and phase response, essential knowledge for mastering engineers and producers alike. We dig into linear and minimum phase EQ effects on stereo imaging and discuss advanced compression techniques that can elevate your production game.

In this episode, we cover:

• What is mid-side EQ and why you should use it
• How manipulating mid and side channels affects your mix’s width and clarity
• The history of mid-side EQ and its origins as a micing technique by Alan Blumline
• Understanding polarity, phase, and common mistakes in mid-side setups
• Using linear and minimum phase EQ for optimal stereo imaging
• Advanced compression tips using mid-side processing for a polished sound

Follow Ian Stewart for more insights: https://flotownmastering.com/

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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
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Ever wondered how to make a super compressed vocal stand out? Tune in to EP 164 of the Inside The Mix podcast, where I dive into everything from vocal compression settings to mastering the 1176 and LA-2A compressors. In this episode, I break down the secrets behind compressing vocals effectively—whether you're looking for optimal vocal compression settings, tips on how to compress vocals, or insights on using an 1176 with an LA-2A.

Unlock the secrets of mastering vocal dynamics as I take you on a journey through the world of iconic compressors—the 1176 and LA-2A. Ever wondered how to control those unruly volume peaks in your tracks? Using insights from my own 2022 release "You and I," I uncover how these legendary compressors can transform your vocal tracks from harsh to harmonious. With a deep dive into my process in Logic Pro, you'll learn the exact settings and adjustments I made on the UAD Rev-A 1176 and UAD LA2A compressor to achieve that perfect balance and polish.

In this episode, I'll guide you through:

• Overview of 1176 and LA-2A Compressors: Exploration of these iconic compressors and their role in transforming vocal tracks by controlling dynamics and adding unique character.
• Real-World Application: Insights from my process on my 2022 release, You and I, demonstrating how these compressors smoothed out vocal peaks.
• Step-by-Step Walkthrough in Logic Pro: Detailed settings and adjustments on the Rev-A 1176, addressing challenges like taming loud vocal sections for a balanced, pleasant sound.
• Optimizing Attack and Release Times: The importance of setting these parameters for consistent sound quality and effective gain reduction.
• Exploration of 1176 Characteristics: Insight into how this compressor’s unique sound colour enhances audio tracks.
• Dynamic Control Techniques: Practical tips on mastering dynamic control to enrich and harmonize vocal tracks using these legendary tools.

Join me for a session packed with hands-on techniques and insights that’ll elevate your audio production skills.

Got feedback? I’d love to hear from you! Click the SpeakPipe link to leave a review, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode:

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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
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Struggling to create a good sub-bass? Whether you’re wondering how to create sub-bass in Logic Pro, what the sub-bass frequency range is, or which sub-bass VST to use, EP 163 of the Inside The Mix podcast has you covered.

In this episode, I break down the essentials of crafting a rich, powerful sub-bass in Logic Pro, drawing from my recent guest appearance on the Let's Talk Synth... Seriously!! podcast. I'll show you how to build a deep, punchy sub-bass sound that will bring life and depth to your tracks. From understanding what sub-bass is to exploring advanced sound synthesis techniques, I guide you step-by-step through using Logic Pro’s Alchemy to shape and perfect your sub-bass. You’ll also learn how to visualize your sound with TDR's Prism, helping you fine-tune the low-end with precision.

This episode isn’t just about technical skills—it's also an invitation to join a growing community of producers and sound designers. Share your feedback or thoughts through Speakpipe, and your voice could be featured in a future episode. Plus, by participating, you’ll enter a monthly draw to win a Starbucks coffee voucher.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• What is Sub-Bass?: A breakdown of sub-bass and how it can define your track’s low end.
• How to Create Sub-Bass in Logic Pro: Step-by-step guidance on using Alchemy to design the perfect sub-bass.
• Sub-Bass Frequency Range: Learn the optimal frequency range to make your sub-bass stand out without overpowering your mix.
• Sound Design with Alchemy: Tips on waveform selection, adding oscillators, and mastering filtering techniques in Logic Pro.
• Visualizing Sub-Bass with TDR's Prism: A guide to using spectrum analyzers to perfect your low-end sound.

Tune in to discover new techniques, refine your sub-bass creation process, and connect with other producers who share your passion for music production.

Click here to listen to my chat with UAP on the Let's Talk Synth... Seriously!! podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lets-talk-synth-seriously-14-marc-matthews/id1647789052?i=1000671717805

Got feedback? I’d love to hear from you! Click the SpeakPipe link to leave a review, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode:

https://www.speakpipe.com/InsideTheMixPodcast

Plus, one lucky reviewer will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

Send me a Message

Support the show

► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ►

Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course TODAY!
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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/free

Send a DM via IG @insidethemicpodcast
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Struggling to improve your workflow in Logic Pro? Whether you want to speed up your music production workflow or learn essential Logic Pro tips for beginners, EP 162 of the Inside The Mix podcast has you covered. Discover the game-changing techniques that can revolutionise your music production!

If you're passionate about music production, this episode is an absolute must-listen. Join me as we dive deep into five revolutionary Logic Pro workflow tips designed to streamline your creative process and boost productivity in 2024. From saving time with MIDI Chase to transforming your sound with MIDI note flam, these tips will enhance your music production game.

In this episode, I’ll guide you through:

• MIDI Chase: Ensure MIDI notes play even when the play head is midway through a note, saving time and avoiding playback issues.
• MIDI Note Flam: Humanize chords by slightly staggering the notes to create a natural, human-like feel, or generate complex arpeggios.
• Track Auto Color: Organize large sessions by automatically assigning colours to tracks, making it easier to identify stems.
• Auto-Create Sampler Instrument: Drag audio files into Logic Pro to quickly create a sampler instrument, saving time in building custom sounds.
• Enable the Third Tool: Assign a third tool to the right mouse button for quick access to additional functions, improving workflow efficiency.

Got feedback? I’d love to hear from you! Click the SpeakPipe link to leave a review, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode:

https://www.speakpipe.com/InsideTheMixPodcast

Plus, one lucky reviewer will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

Send me a Message

Support the show

► ► ► WAYS TO CONNECT ► ► ►

Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course TODAY!
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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/free

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Struggling to make your vocals stand out in a mix? Whether you're wondering how to mix vocals or how to get them upfront with clarity and punch, EP 161 of the Inside The Mix podcast has you covered. In this episode, I’m diving deep into vocal mixing techniques that will help you transform your tracks. I’ll show you how to create a natural vocal double using simple timing adjustments in Logic Pro— no need for expensive plugins. Even better, these techniques are transferable to other DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, Cubase, and more. You’ll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls like phasing and balance to make your vocals sound polished and full.

If you're curious about how to make vocals stand out in a mix, modern vocal mixing, or achieving that perfect vocal sound, this episode is packed with actionable tips that you can use right away.

We'll cover:

• How to create a vocal double without plugins
• Tips for improving vocal clarity and punch
• How to avoid phasing issues in vocal doubling
• A step-by-step vocal mixing workflow in Logic Pro (transferable to Ableton, FL Studio, Cubase, and others)
• Techniques for making vocals sit perfectly in your mix

Got feedback? I’d love to hear from you! Click the SpeakPipe link to leave a review, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode:

https://www.speakpipe.com/InsideTheMixPodcast

As a thank you, every reviewer is entered into a monthly draw to win a Starbucks coffee voucher!

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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
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Struggling with how to apply reverb on vocals or tame harsh sibilance? In EP 160 of the Inside The Mix podcast, I reveal how to elevate a vocal mixe using a de-esser on a reverb send. If you’ve ever battled those sharp 'tss' and 'sss' sounds ruining an otherwise smooth vocal, this episode is for you. Learn how to make your vocal reverb sound polished and natural, as I walk through a real session in Logic Pro, demonstrating the Logic Pro DeEsser 2 in action.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode

• How to use reverb effectively on vocals
• The role of a de-esser in controlling vocal sibilance
• Step-by-step guide to using the Logic Pro DeEsser 2
• Applying a de-esser to a reverb send for a smoother sound
• Before-and-after audio examples of refined vocal reverb
• Practical tips for creating professional-sounding vocal mixes
• How to make your vocal reverb sound cohesive and less harsh

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced mix engineer, these actionable tips on using a de-esser with reverb will transform your mixes. Hear the clear difference in before-and-after audio examples, and see how small tweaks can make your vocals sound more professional and cohesive. Don't miss this essential episode filled with insights into vocal reverb, de-essing, and industry secrets!

Want to be featured on the podcast? Click the link to leave a 30-second review, shout yourself out, and share why you'd recommend this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/InsideTheMixPodcast

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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/free

Send a DM via IG @insidethemicpodcast
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Struggling to make your vocals stand out in a mix? Wondering about the best vocal mixing workflow practices or how to get vocals upfront with clarity and punch? In EP 159 of the Inside The Mix podcast, I dive deep into vocal mixing techniques that will transform your tracks. If you're curious about modern vocal mixing, making vocals sit perfectly in your mix, or exploring tools like the Waves Doubler, this episode is packed with actionable tips.

Join me as I break down my go-to vocal production trick—using the Waves Doubler to add depth and width to your vocals. From creating a rich vocal doubling effect to enhancing transitions between sections, I'll guide you through every step inside Logic Pro. You'll learn how to turn a dry vocal stem into a lush, dynamic sound that sits perfectly in your mix.

We'll cover:

• Vocal mixing workflow best practices
• Setting up an aux send for the Waves Doubler 4
• Fine-tuning stereo delay settings for an immersive stereo effect
• Why external EQ like Logic Pro Channel EQ is key for precise vocal control

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned engineer, you'll walk away with essential tips on how to mix vocals that stand out in any genre. Tune in to take your vocal production to the next level!

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Support the show

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Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course TODAY!
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Are you READY to accelerate your mixing, in Logic Pro, in less than six hours?
Join my FREE Logic Pro Mixing Course at Synth Music Mastering: https://www.synthmusicmastering.com/free

Send a DM via IG @insidethemicpodcast
Email me at [email protected]