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Achieving a polished, professional sound in mastering requires a deep understanding of digital distortion and saturation—but how do you use them effectively without compromising clarity? 

In this episode of Inside The Mix, I’m joined by mastering engineer Eric Mitchell to explore the fine balance between intentional and unintentional distortion, the role of saturation in mastering, and essential techniques to refine your sound.

Key Topics Covered:

• The difference between intentional vs. unintentional distortion in mastering
• How saturation enhances warmth and depth in a mix
• Essential techniques for managing loudness and dynamics
• Common pitfalls to avoid when using digital distortion
• The best tools for mastering and distortion
• Transitioning from analog to digital mastering—what you need to know
• Why trusting your ears is crucial in mastering and saturation

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just getting started, this episode will help you unlock the power of mastering while avoiding common mistakes.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Follow Eric at Eric Mitchell Audio
• Kaptive Audio

Got a question? I’d love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky question will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

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Listen to my new single 'Separation'

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In episode 181 of Inside The Mix, I’m joined by Ableton Live expert and music production mentor Dan Giffin to discuss the key elements that take a producer from hobbyist to professional. 

We dive into the emotional side of mixing, the power of mentorship, and how evolving technology—including AI—is shaping the future of music creation. 

Whether you're perfecting your productions or preparing for a live music performance, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your workflow.

What You'll Learn:

• How Ableton Live can be used for live performance and stress-free setups
• The impact of music production mentorship on career growth
• Breaking down the future of AI in DAWs—is there a DAW with AI?
• How to prepare for a live music performance without the overwhelm
• The importance of emotional connection in mixing over technical perfection
• Lessons learned from Dan’s journey, including humorous real-world experiences

Tune in to learn how to refine your craft, embrace new technology, and make music that truly connects with listeners!

Wanna follow Dan? Click here

Got a question? I’d love to hear from you! Click here to submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode.

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

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

Ever wondered how did people produce music in the 80s or how to produce 80s music with authenticity? In this episode of Inside The Mix, hosts Marc and Aisle9 break down the essential 80s music production techniques, from analyzing reference tracks to choosing the right instruments and effects. 

Whether you're crafting synthwave, pop, or rock, this episode will help you capture the nostalgic magic of the era while avoiding modern production pitfalls.

What You'll Learn:

• How to analyse 80s reference tracks for structure and composition
• Essential synths, drum machines, and live recording techniques
• Why avoiding modern production habits, like heavy side-chain compression, is crucial
• The importance of clarity and moderation in mixing for an authentic 80s feel
• How studio experiences shape production choices and workflow
• Why focusing on one or two techniques per project leads to better results
• Understanding the historical context behind 80s music production techniques

Tune in for expert insights and practical strategies to bring the legendary 80s sound to life!

Got a question? I’d love to hear from you! Click here to submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode.

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

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
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Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

In this episode of Inside The Mix, I sit down with Shane Slack, an acclaimed audio professional celebrated for his innovative approach to music production. Shane dives deep into the philosophy behind audio production, emphasising the importance of understanding the source material before processing and mastering the techniques that truly elevate your mixes. 

This conversation is packed with actionable insights for producers and engineers aiming to achieve high-quality results in their music.

What You'll Learn:
• Should I mix or master first? Shane explains the benefits of a "mastering-first" mindset for identifying and solving issues in your mix.
• Why understanding your source material is crucial to avoid unnecessary processing.
• How the "Hippocratic Oath" of audio production—doing no harm—can transform your approach.
• The pitfalls of shortcut-seeking behaviour in music production and how to avoid them.
• Breaking out of the plugin chain trap: when less is more in your signal chain.
• Techniques for creating depth and movement in your mixes without overcomplication.
• Why critical engagement with tools and techniques is essential for achieving professional results.

If you want to refine your audio production workflow, elevate your sound, and embrace a deeper understanding of your craft, this episode is for you!

Wanna follow Shane? Click here

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

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

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

This episode of Inside The Mix breaks down the myths surrounding financial success in the music industry and reveals how aspiring audio professionals can thrive.

My guest, Eliott Glinn, shares invaluable insights on how to start your own music business with a focus on developing a success-driven mindset, mastering content creation, and using smart strategies for client retention. Together, we explore how to create a sustainable music career by balancing creativity with effective business strategies.

Discover the fastest way to generate leads as Eliott dives into practical techniques for building authentic industry relationships, creating impactful content, and standing out in a competitive market. 

Whether you're a producer, engineer, or music entrepreneur, this episode provides essential tools to break free from the "starving artist" mindset and transform your passion into a profitable career. 

What You'll Learn:
• Challenging the myth of the starving artist
• Importance of a business mindset in music
• Effective lead-generation strategies
• Creating sustainable content that resonates
• Key communication practices for client retention
• Building authentic relationships in the industry
• Navigating competition with collaboration in mind
• Final insights for a thriving music career

Click here to follow Eliott Glinn

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

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

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

In this episode of Inside The Mix, we tackle the challenge of managing unwanted reverb baked into audio samples. If you've ever struggled with excessive room sound or reverberation in your recordings, this episode offers practical solutions and expert insights to help you clean up your mixes.

I dive into the challenge of managing unwanted reverb baked into audio samples and explore whether it's possible to remove reverb from audio without compromising sound quality. 

I break down the best deverb plugins, including iZotope RX De-reverb, Acon Digital DeVerberate 3, and Logic Pro’s Enveloper, comparing their effectiveness in reducing reverberation while keeping the audio clean and natural.

You'll learn how to get rid of reverberation in your tracks, understand what deverb plugins do, and discover if there's a plugin that truly removes reverb from audio samples. 

Tune in and learn how to take control of your audio for cleaner, more professional mixes!

Do you want to listen to Out Run The Sun? Click here.

Got a question? I’d love to hear from you! Click here to submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode.

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

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

In this episode of Inside The Mix, we dive deep into enhancing your kick drum for maximum impact using the free Plugin Alliance bx_Subfilter plugin. Discover how to make your kicks sound fatter, punchier, and more powerful in your mixes with professional tips and techniques. Whether you're working on electronic beats or rock tracks, mastering your low end is essential for a polished sound.

What You'll Learn:
• What makes a kick drum punchy and how to achieve it
• How to get a fat kick drum sound with proper sample selection
• Step-by-step guide to using the Plugin Alliance bx_Subfilter
• Fine-tuning resonance and tight punch settings for impact
• What does bx_Subfilter do? Breaking down its key features
• Gain staging tips to ensure a balanced, professional mix
• Before-and-after audio comparisons to hear the difference

Master the art of low-end control and take your mixes to the next level! Tune in now for expert insights and practical techniques you can apply today.

Do you want to listen to Waves? Click here.

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

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

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
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Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

As we bid farewell to 2024, this special episode of Inside The Mix celebrates your incredible musical wins while providing actionable tips to elevate your music production journey. My co-host, Aisle9, and I reflect on the year’s highlights, share listener achievements, and answer your burning questions about mixing, mastering, and making meaningful progress as a musician.

Whether you're wondering what is gain staging, how to get rid of mud in a mix, or how many reverbs to use in a mix, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration to kickstart your 2025 music goals.

What We Cover:

• Celebrating inspiring listener wins, from mastering collaborations to personal breakthroughs.
• Breaking down the essentials of what is gain staging and its impact on sound quality.
• Exploring what is the best LUFS for mastering to meet industry standards.
• Proven strategies on how to get rid of mud in a mix for clarity and balance.
• Tips on how many reverbs to use in a mix for depth without over-complication.
• The importance of community and networking for creative growth.
• Setting achievable music goals for the upcoming year.

Join us in reflecting on the power of collaboration, community, and creativity as we step into the new year with renewed energy and inspiration!

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

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

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

In this episode of Inside the Mix, we dive into the world of DIY mastering. Whether you're curious about mastering music fundamentals, the basic steps of mastering, or simply want to understand what mastering a song really is, this episode has you covered.

Join me as I sit down with mastering engineer Eric Mitchell to uncover the techniques, tools, and insights needed to achieve professional-quality results, even in a home studio. Learn about gain staging, overcoming the limitations of home mastering setups, and why experience plays a critical role in achieving the perfect sound.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

- Understanding the feasibility of DIY mastering in home studios
- Importance of ear training and room acoustics
- Common pitfalls, such as poor gain staging
- Mastering workflow tips and essential tools
- The significance of reference tracks in mastering
- Addressing misconceptions about loudness and streaming
- Eric’s approach of using project files instead of stereo mixes
- Advice for those wanting to pursue a career in mastering
- The need for patience and dedication in developing mastering skills

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

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

Face Your Ears
Explore home recording and music creation with Rich and Justin on 'Face Your Ears'!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!

Send me a message

Ever wondered how to create a simple riser that adds excitement and anticipation to your tracks? Or maybe you’re curious about how to create a riser in Serum for that professional, polished sound? Tune into this episode of Inside The Mix as we dive into the art of crafting the perfect riser to elevate your music production.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to create custom risers using tools like Serum and other accessible methods. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, this episode provides actionable tips to make your transitions more impactful and dynamic.

You’ll also gain insights into the creative possibilities of riser design, from basic sound shaping to advanced modulation techniques, ensuring your productions stand out.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to create a simple riser to enhance transitions.
• Step-by-step instructions for how to create a riser in Serum.
• Essential sound design tips for crafting risers that match your track's vibe.
• The importance of layering and automation in riser design.
• Creative techniques to make your risers unique and memorable.

Perfect for producers of all levels, this episode will inspire you to take your sound design skills to new heights.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the exciting world of riser creation!

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

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

Do you want to listen to Waves? Click here.

Support the show

Listen to my new single 'Separation'

Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening and never stop making music!