Mixing & Mastering Engineer

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: As an audio engineer, my primary goal is to capture and enhance the sonic qualities of a song in a way that supports the artistic vision of the artist or producer. In order to achieve this, I bring a range of technical and creative skills to every project. One of my key strengths as an audio engineer is my ability to carefully listen to the music and understand how different elements of the song should be balanced and mixed together. I have a strong understanding of signal flow, routing, and gain staging, which allows me to ensure that every track is properly recorded and processed in order to create a cohesive and impactful final mix. In terms of creating a vibe, feeling, and atmosphere that fits the direction of the record, I bring a deep understanding of the sonic qualities of different genres and styles of music. I am able to select the right reverbs, delays, and other effects to create the desired emotional impact, while also keeping the sound clean and competitive with other mixes. Moreover, I am always up-to-date with the latest audio technologies and industry standards, which allows me to stay ahead of the curve and deliver high-quality mixes that stand out in the current music landscape.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: 1. Checking for any notes from the producer or artist to understand their requirements and expectations. 2. Listening to any reference tracks that have been provided to get a sense of the desired sound and style. 3. Analyzing the tracks to identify any areas that need improvement or adjustment. 4. Making the necessary adjustments and revisions to achieve the desired result.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My current studio setup is an analog/digital hybrid system that allows me to achieve the best of both worlds. I use a range of audio plugins from top brands such as Universal Audio, Fab Filter, Weiss, and SSL to achieve high-quality audio processing and mixing. To further enhance the analog aspect of my setup, I also use the SSL Big Six as a summing mixer, which allows me to sum the audio signals from my individual tracks into a single stereo mix. This helps me to achieve a more natural and cohesive sound in my mixes. For the master bus, I use the SSL Fusion and Bus+ to further enhance the sound quality and bring out the best in the mix. In addition, I use the SP404 mk2 as an effects unit to add texture and character to the tracks. When it comes to monitoring, I use a combination of Auratones and Yamaha HS5 speakers, which provide a clear and accurate representation of the sound. For referencing, I use the VSX headphones, which allow me to hear the details and nuances of the mix in a controlled environment. Overall, my studio setup is designed to provide me with the tools I need to achieve the highest quality audio production and mixing. I am always looking for ways to improve and evolve my setup to stay at the forefront of the industry.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: My biggest inspiration would have to be RZA from Wu Tang. He has been a major influence on my approach to producing and has shown me the power of combining different musical styles to create something truly unique. His innovative use of sampling and his ability to create cinematic soundscapes has always been a source of inspiration for me. Another music production professional who inspires me is the Alchemist. He is known for his gritty, sample-heavy production style and has worked with some of the biggest names in hip hop. I admire his ability to take seemingly random samples and turn them into cohesive, powerful beats. Overall, I find inspiration in a wide range of musicians and producers, from classic hip hop producers to contemporary electronic musicians. I believe that staying open to different styles and genres is key to staying inspired and continually evolving as a producer.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: As an active producer within the sample-based hip-hop genre, the most common type of work I do for my clients is audio mixing and mastering. This involves taking the individual tracks of a song or instrumental and blending them together to create a cohesive and balanced mix. I work to enhance the overall sound quality of the track, making sure that each element is clearly audible and the mix has depth and dimension.