Re-Recording Mixer

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: It varies depending on the project but for a full service feature I have five stages the work goes through. 1. Pre project spotting session with the client: This is a meeting / watch down of the project to discuss the clients artistic vision for the sound design. 2. Dialogue Edit: Dialogue editing involves selecting, cleaning, and arranging dialogue recordings captured during filming. A crucial step is the microphone selection pass, where the editor evaluates recorded dialogue tracks, considering factors like clarity, tonal balance, and background noise. Priority is given to higher-quality microphone recordings, avoiding those with excessive noise or distortion. Proximity effect of each microphone is also weighed, affecting tonal balance and presence. Multiple microphones are generally phase aligned and mixed together. After selecting optimal microphone recordings for each scene, a secondary pass is performed removing unwanted noise and ensuring consistency in volume and tone. 3. Sound Effects Editing: Sound effects are cut based on discussions with the client during the spotting session(s). This includes creating or selecting ambient sounds and backgrounds, Foley effects (such as footsteps or door creaks), and any other sounds necessary to bring scenes to life. 4. Foley Recording: Foley effects are recorded synchronized with the on-screen action. This can include footsteps, cloth movement, or handling of objects, adding realism and depth to the audio. 5. Mixing: The final step involves blending all the elements together in the mix. This includes balancing dialogue, music, and sound effects, as well as adding spatial effects like reverb or panning to create depth and dimension. The mix is adjusted to ensure optimal playback across different formats and environments, such as theaters, home theaters, or streaming platforms. 6. Mastering: Once the mix is finalized, the audio is mastered to ensure consistency and quality across all distribution formats. This involves applying compression, equalization, and other processing techniques to optimize the sound for different playback systems.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: In my studio, I've carefully curated top-tier equipment to ensure the highest audio quality. I rely on the RME Fireface UC interface for its pristine sound capture and versatile connectivity. For monitoring, I trust the Sonodyne Reference 5.1 surround sound monitors, which offer exceptional accuracy for crafting immersive audio experiences. Powering my operations is the reliable Apple Mac Pro 3.00GHz 10-Core Xeon, providing the processing muscle for demanding audio tasks. And when it comes to capturing dialogue and other audio, the Sennheiser MKE 600f microphone delivers exceptional clarity and reliability. To create the perfect acoustic environment, my studio is treated with strategically placed 2'x4' panels, controlling reflections and maintaining a balanced sound. I've also added acoustic curtains for sound isolation, keeping unwanted noise at bay. With this meticulously assembled setup, I'm well-equipped to deliver professional-grade audio production and mixing services, tailored to the highest standards of quality and precision.

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

A: My work is evenly divided between three crucial aspects of audio post-production: recording Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) and dubbing, mixing television shows and films in both stereo and 5.1 surround sound formats, and sound design and foley.