Secret Sonics

In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a competitive mindset holds you back, and Matt's latest revelations about multiband processing on the mix bus.


Topics we discuss:

• How Matt and his collaborators deep-dive into topics like loudness for streaming platforms
• The unexpected benefits of viewing other engineers as peers rather than competitors
• Matt's innovative "5% better" exercise for group mixing sessions
• Why understanding the 'why' behind plugin choices is crucial for intentional mixing
• Matt's evolving perspective on multiband processing and how to use it more effectively

Learn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/
Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this illuminating episode, mixing engineer Matt Huber shares his deep dive into the complex world of loudness for streaming platforms. Discover the surprising factors that influence perceived loudness on Spotify, the unexpected benefits of strategic quietness, and how to craft mixes that translate beautifully across all mediums. Whether you're a mixing novice or a seasoned pro, you'll gain valuable insights on balancing artistic integrity with the demands of the modern streaming landscape.


Topics we discuss:

• Why brightness, not just compression, plays a crucial role in perceived loudness on streaming
• The unexpected impact of vocal, kick, and snare levels on how "loud" a track feels
• How Spotify's normalization changes based on playlist context
• Strategies for communicating with clients about loudness without compromising mix quality
• Genre-specific loudness "targets" that help maintain musical impact and excitement

Learn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/
Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

If you could start your audio career over in 2024, what would you do differently? Ben and Carl explore this thought-provoking question, sharing hard-won wisdom on striking the delicate balance between artistic growth and business savvy in today's music industry landscape. Discover practical strategies for developing your craft while building the entrepreneurial skills needed for long-term success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your career, this episode offers a roadmap for thriving as a creative professional in the modern audio world.


Topics we discuss:

• ⁠⁠Why mastering your craft alone isn't enough to build a sustainable career
• ⁠How to cultivate your artistic community while developing business acumen
• ⁠The unexpected benefits of embracing social media for audio professionals
• Why lifelong learning is crucial for both creative and entrepreneurial growth
• Practical steps for finding your unique balance between art and commerce

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters. Get ready for a masterclass in audio wisdom that will transform the way you approach your craft!


Topics we discuss:

• ⁠Why mastering to vinyl might be the ultimate audio challenge (and how Dave plans to tackle it in retirement)
• The surprising power of broad EQ curves in crafting a polished, professional sound
• How to recreate the magic of analog tape compression in the digital realm
• Dave's secret weapon for taming harsh sibilance (hint: it's not a traditional de-esser)
• Why studying classic recordings from the mid-90s is crucial for developing your "internal reference"
• and more!

To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for producers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with wisdom to elevate your craft. Tune in to discover how to blend artistic intuition with technical precision, and why mastering is more crucial than ever in today's music landscape.


Topics we discuss:

• Why your aesthetic intuition is just as important as your technical skills
• The small adjustments that can have a big impact on the final sound of your tracks
• Analog vs. Digital 
• Why mastering always starts with mid-side EQ
• Always prioritizing with the vocal
• Leaving headroom (and not lying about it ;))

To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this second part of our interview with Dana Nielsen, we dive deep into the world of vocal production. Dana shares his expertise on working with singers, from capturing great performances to the intricacies of vocal editing and comping. He offers invaluable insights into creating a comfortable environment for artists, reading the room, and knowing when to push for better takes or call it a day. Dana's approach emphasizes the importance of preparation, artist-first mentality, and the ability to adapt to different workflows and personalities in the studio.

Topics we discuss:

• Dana's approach to vocal production and recording
• Techniques for getting the best performances from singers
• The importance of preparation in studio sessions
• Navigating different artist personalities and workflows
• Vocal comping and editing techniques
• Balancing technical skills with interpersonal awareness
• Working with high-profile artists like Adele and Ozzy Osbourne

To learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout

References:
The Avett Brothers: "No Hard Feelings" - https://youtu.be/aaU2HvRhCPw?si=sQNcd8NR3Be9r2OY

Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana shares insights on reading the room, adapting to artists' needs, and navigating studio dynamics. He offers practical advice on creating the right studio vibe, knowing when to speak up, and balancing creative exploration with real-world constraints. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned professionals on becoming an indispensable collaborator in the music production process.

Topics we discuss:

• The importance of being a "good hang" in the studio
• Adapting to different artist personalities and preferences
• Knowing when to speak up and when to stay quiet in various studio roles
• Balancing creative exploration with time and budget constraints
• The value of mentorship and learning from experienced professionals
• Navigating the delicate balance between technical and interpersonal skills

To learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this second part of our interview with Nick Nagurka, we dive deeper into the human side of Nick’s approach to live band recording. Nick shares insights on creating a comfortable environment for artists, managing the pressure of performance, and maintaining the delicate balance between technical excellence and capturing raw, authentic moments. From fostering trust to handling unexpected challenges, this episode offers a candid look at the interpersonal dynamics that shape the recording process.

Topics we discuss:

• Creating a comfortable and trusting environment for artists
• Balancing the casual vibe of a "retreat" with the focus needed for recording
• Managing the pressure of performance, especially with video recording
• The importance of flexibility and taking chances in the recording process
• Techniques for transitioning from rehearsal mode to performance mode
• The value of capturing continuous takes and handling unexpected moments
• Balancing old-school recording techniques with modern post-production tools

To learn more about Nick - https://www.nicknagurkamusic.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Nick - https://www.instagram.com/thenick

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

Welcome to the first interview episode of Secret Sonics 2.0! We're kicking off our revamped format with a bang, pulling back the curtain on the art and science of live band recording with engineer extraordinaire Nick Nagurka.

Known for his work with Theo Katzman and Vulfpeck, Nick brings a fresh perspective to the age-old challenge of capturing lightning in a bottle.

Nick's approach turns conventional wisdom on its head, embracing the chaos of bleed and prioritizing the vibe over technical perfection. He shares his unique methods for achieving that elusive "band in a room" sound, from unconventional mic placements to the strategic use of cutting-edge technology.

This episode is a masterclass in balancing old-school techniques with modern tools, demonstrating how to capture the raw energy of a live performance while maintaining the polish expected in professional recordings. Whether you're a bedroom producer or a seasoned studio vet, Nick's insights will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to push the boundaries of your craft.


Topics we discuss:

• Techniques for recording drums in a live setting
• ⁠Microphone choices and placement strategies
• Balancing musician comfort with technical requirements
• ⁠The use of modern tools like iZotope RX in conjunction with traditional recording techniques
• ⁠The importance of committing to sounds during tracking

To learn more about Nick - https://www.nicknagurkamusic.com/

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Nick - https://www.instagram.com/thenick

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

Ben and Carl discuss key strategies for creating a sustainable and future-proof music production business. They explore topics like consistent lead generation, maintaining client relationships, adapting to industry trends, and differentiating yourself in a crowded market.


Topics we discuss:

• The power of consistent lead generation, even during busy periods
• How to nurture client relationships through simple, genuine check-ins
• Strategies for staying informed on industry trends without getting overwhelmed
• Why differentiating yourself is crucial in today's global market
• The importance of investing in relationships over gear

Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


Connect with us:

Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/

Thanks to our sponsors!

Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


Learn more:

https://www.benwallick.com/
https://www.carlbahner.com/


This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/