Creative Mixing & Mastering

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: Among the projects that hold a special place for me, my own 10-track LP stands out as a labor of love and a milestone in my journey. This was not just another project; it was a compilation of years of artistic exploration, trial and error, and emotional investment. These 10 tracks were meticulously selected from a vast catalog I had built over many years of production, symbolizing the essence of my own musical vision. My role was all-encompassing in this LP—producer, mixer, and mastering engineer. It was a solitary yet deeply rewarding process, allowing me to channel both my technical expertise and artistic sensibilities into a singular vision. The LP served as a canvas where I could experiment freely, implementing all the skills I've acquired over two decades. What makes me especially proud of this LP is not just the final product but the journey it represents. It stands as a testament to my commitment to the craft and my ability to bring a long-term vision to fruition. It's not just a display of my technical skills, but also a showcase of my capabilities as an artist in my own right. This project underscores the depth and breadth of what I bring to the table, not just as an engineer, but as a collaborator deeply invested in the artistic process.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I'm currently offering a free production of a pop song to a young artist in South Africa. He's currently only working with a cellphone and an online beat production application. He is a talented artist and you wouldn''t know his limitations by hearing his work. I've offered to work with him at no charge to help build his career and ge ta shot at a real production.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: My colleagues at Executive Studios are all excellent engineers.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both analog and digital have their distinct advantages, and our approach is to harness the strengths of each to create the most well-rounded, dynamic sound possible. Analog brings warmth, depth, and a unique tonal richness that's hard to replicate digitally. It adds a certain organic, textured character to the music that many artists seek. The Rupert Neve gear and SSL big six analog mixer in our studio, for example, contribute to that lush, full-bodied sound that makes analog so revered. On the other hand, digital provides unmatched precision, flexibility, and convenience. With tools like Pro Tools and our UAD satellite 8 core, we can make intricate edits, automate complex processes, and efficiently manage sessions, which allows for creative possibilities that would be incredibly time-consuming or downright impossible in a purely analog setup. So, it's not a question of one over the other for us; it's about the synergy between the two. We use analog to capture and enhance the emotional essence of the music and digital to refine and polish it to perfection. This blended approach allows us to offer the best of both worlds, maximizing the artistic and technical quality of each project.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: Our promise to our clients is threefold: Quality, Collaboration, and Growth. 1. Quality: With over two decades of experience in the industry, we commit to delivering the highest standard of audio production. Your tracks will not just meet professional benchmarks but will be imbued with the kind of artistic nuance that only comes from years of dedicated practice. 2. Collaboration: We see each project as a collaborative endeavor. Our role extends beyond being just a service provider; we aim to be creative partners. Open communication and mutual respect are at the core of how we operate, ensuring that your artistic vision is not just preserved but elevated. 3. Growth: We're invested in your long-term artistic development. Our work goes beyond delivering a polished final product; we offer insights and advice that can help you grow as an artist, making each collaboration a stepping stone in your artistic journey. Through this trifold commitment, we aim to not only meet but exceed your expectations, providing a seamless and enriching experience from start to finish.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What we love most about our job is the transformative journey we take with each artist and their project. Every piece of music comes to us as a raw, emotional expression, and we have the privilege of shaping it into a polished work of art. The process is like a puzzle, blending technical skills with creative intuition to bring out the best in each track. But what truly excites us is seeing the artist grow and evolve through this collaborative experience. We thrive on the challenge that each new project brings, as it pushes us to explore new techniques and creative approaches. The joy comes not just from the final, polished track, but from the entire creative process—those 'aha' moments during mixing, the collaborative dialogue with artists, and ultimately, the satisfaction of enhancing the emotional resonance of a piece of music. The highlight, however, is witnessing the artist's reaction when they hear their vision realized through our work. Knowing that we've played a role in helping someone achieve their artistic dreams is incredibly fulfilling and drives us to continually excel in what we do.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Common questions we often encounter from customers include: "How long will it take to finish my project?" • Our answer varies depending on the complexity and requirements of each project, but we always aim for a timely turnaround without compromising quality. "Can you make it sound like [insert artist or song]?" • While we can certainly aim for a specific sonic quality, we prefer to focus on bringing out the unique characteristics that make your music stand out, rather than replicating someone else's work. "What's your rate?" • Our rates are tailored to the specific needs of each project. We provide a detailed estimate after assessing the scope of the work involved. "What format should I send my tracks in?" • We generally prefer tracks in the highest resolution possible, usually 24-bit or 32-bit WAV or AIFF files, to maintain audio fidelity. "Do you offer revisions?" • Yes, we typically offer a set number of revisions as part of our service package, because we want to ensure that you're fully satisfied with the end result. "What's the most important part of the mixing/mastering process?" • For us, the most crucial element is understanding the artist's vision. Technical expertise is important, but the key is to enhance the emotional impact of the music. "Do you only work in electronic genres?" • While we have extensive experience in electronic and electronic fusion styles, our expertise spans multiple genres. We love the challenge and inspiration that come from working across a broad musical spectrum. These questions help us gauge the needs and expectations of our clients, setting the stage for a successful and collaborative working relationship.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: The biggest misconception about what we do is that our role is merely technical, limited to pushing buttons and twisting knobs. Many people underestimate the deep level of creative involvement and artistic intuition that goes into our work. Mixing and mastering aren't just about balancing levels and polishing sound; they're about understanding the emotional core of a piece and enhancing it to create a compelling auditory experience. Our work extends beyond the technical aspects to include mentoring and collaboration. We invest time in understanding an artist's vision and offer insights that can help elevate their work to professional standards. Each project becomes a shared journey, where we act as both technical experts and creative partners. So, when you collaborate with us, you're gaining more than just a service provider; you're acquiring a committed ally in your artistic journey.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When we engage with prospective clients, our aim is to delve deep into their needs, expectations, and artistic vision. Here are some questions we typically ask to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project: 1. What is the core message or emotion you want to convey through your music? 2. Do you have a specific sound or genre you're aiming for? Are there any reference tracks you have in mind? 3. What's your timeline for this project? Do you have any hard deadlines? 4. What is the current status of your project? (e.g., pre-production, recorded but not mixed, etc.) 5. How many tracks are in the project, and what are their individual lengths? 6. Are there any particular challenges or issues you've encountered that you want to address in the production process? 7. Do you require additional services such as vocal tuning, drum replacement, or sound design? 8. What are your release plans for the project? Is this part of an album, EP, or a standalone single? 9. What's your budget range for the project? 10. Are you open to creative suggestions for enhancing the production value of your music? These questions help us align our services with your artistic and practical needs, ensuring that we can contribute effectively to your musical journey. They also provide a foundation for open communication and collaboration, vital components for the success of any project.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: When you're looking to hire an audio engineer, it's crucial to consider not just technical expertise, but also the ability to nurture and elevate your artistic vision. We advise you to look for a provider who sees your project as a collaboration, not just a transaction. Here are some tips: 1. Check Portfolio: Listen to the provider's previous work to see if their mixing and mastering style aligns with what you envision for your music. 2. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to inquire about their process, equipment, and how they approach challenges. Open communication is key to a successful partnership. 3. Discuss Your Goals: Clearly articulate what you aim to achieve with your project. This will help the provider tailor their services to meet your specific needs. 4. Budget and Timeline: Be upfront about your budget and expected timeline to ensure that both parties are on the same page from the get-go. 5. Seek Commitment to Growth: Find a provider who is not just interested in finishing a project, but in contributing to your long-term development as an artist. By investing in a partnership with us, you're not just getting two decades of mixing and mastering experience; you're gaining collaborators who are committed to helping you evolve as an artist. Our work goes beyond the technical aspects; we're here to foster your growth and empower you to reach new heights in your musical journey.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: If confined to a desert island with just five pieces of essential gear, here's what we'd choose based on the pinnacle of audio technology: Focal Utopia Headphones: Widely considered the best reference headphones available, they offer an unparalleled listening experience with a wide frequency response and impeccable clarity, perfect for both monitoring and critical listening. SSL Duality Console: This industry-standard console combines the warmth of analog circuits with digital flexibility, making it a go-to for recording and mixing with its feature-rich interface and exceptional audio fidelity. Avid HDX System with Pro Tools: Providing powerful processing capabilities and a seamless workflow, this setup enables us to execute complex editing, mixing, and mastering tasks with precision and efficiency. Focal SM9 Monitors: These studio monitors offer an incredible frequency response and dynamic range, critical for accurate monitoring and ensuring the highest quality output. Moog One Polyphonic Synthesizer: As the synthesizer to own, it offers immense sonic flexibility and texture, from classic analog tones to intricate layered patches, providing an endless palette of sounds to incorporate into productions. With these five pieces of gear, we'd have a state-of-the-art yet simplified setup, enabling us to continue crafting the high-quality audio productions that we're passionate about, even in the most challenging conditions.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: We've been in the audio engineering field for 20 years, starting as self-taught enthusiasts driven by a passion for music and sound. Our career path wasn't forged in formal educational settings, but rather through years of hands-on experience, endless curiosity, and the drive to continually improve our craft. The journey began with experimenting on personal projects, and it didn't take long for us to realize that this was more than a hobby—it was a calling. Over the years, we've had the privilege to work on a wide range of projects across various genres, gaining invaluable experience and refining our skills with each new challenge. We embraced the evolving landscape of music technology, integrating the best of both analog and digital equipment into our studio setup. As we gained recognition for our unique blend of technical prowess and artistic intuition, our client base grew, ranging from budding artists to seasoned professionals. Alongside our work, we've also stayed committed to professional development—keeping abreast of industry trends, mastering new technologies, and expanding our network within the music community. But what really defines our career path is the relationships we've built with artists. We've not only served as audio engineers but also as mentors and collaborators, helping artists reach new heights in their professional journeys. Each project we take on becomes a part of our own story—a testament to our dedication to the art and science of audio engineering and a lasting imprint of our commitment to helping artists grow.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: When we dive into mixing and mastering a track, it's not just about knobs, faders, and waveforms for us; it's about uncovering the soul of your music and giving it room to breathe and flourish. We understand that as an artist, you're on a journey—a journey to find your voice, refine your sound, and connect with your audience. Our first step in the mixing process is to sit down with you to understand the essence and intention behind your music. Are you looking to evoke nostalgia, make people dance, or provoke thought? Once we understand what drives you, we treat your music as a living, breathing entity. It's about finding the right balance between the instruments, so they're in harmony, not competition. It's about applying effects like reverb or delay in just the right measure to encapsulate a mood, without overwhelming the track. As we move into the mastering stage, it's less about loudness wars and more about making your music sound its absolute best on any platform, in any format. This is the stage where your song goes from sounding "good" to "professionally polished." We apply fine-tuned adjustments, always keeping in mind how the track will fit into your broader portfolio and resonate with your target audience. But our commitment to your growth doesn't end when the track is done. We also provide insights on how the technical aspects of your song align with current industry standards, offering guidance that can help you make impactful artistic decisions in the future. We see each track as a step in your artistic and professional journey, and we're honored to walk that path with you. Our ultimate goal is to help you transition from not just being an artist, but a successful artist.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I would be thrilled to work with Maynard James Keenan, the creative force behind Tool, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle. What intrigues me most about Maynard is his fearless innovation and boundary-pushing approach to music. Whether it's the progressive metal complexity of Tool, the haunting atmospheres of A Perfect Circle, or the experimental tones of Puscifer, he never shies away from diving into the deep end of musical exploration. Working with Maynard would offer a unique opportunity to blend my specialization in electronic and electronic fusion genres with his multi-faceted musical genius. The technical demands of his work would be a perfect match for our studio's capabilities, from the intricate mixing techniques to the need for sonic depth and nuance. It would be a profound experience to contribute to his process, potentially introducing electronic elements to further expand his already vast musical landscape. His holistic approach to artistry, combining music with visual elements and storytelling, resonates with our studio's aim to help artists achieve both professional and creative growth. A collaboration with Maynard would not only be an exciting challenge but also an incredible learning experience in the art of making music that transcends genre and medium.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: One invaluable tip that combines the virtues of analog gear with the demands of digital production is managing digital foldback or aliasing, a phenomenon that can compromise your audio quality. In simple terms, aliasing occurs when high-frequency content, above half of your sampling rate (the Nyquist frequency), gets "folded back" into the audible range, creating unintended noise or artifacts. Analog gear, especially preamps and analog mixers like our SSL Big Six or Rupert Neve units, inherently smooth out these high frequencies before they can alias when digitized. This contributes to the "warmth" often attributed to analog systems. However, if you're working strictly in the digital domain, oversampling is your best friend. By increasing your project's sample rate temporarily during recording or processing, you provide greater 'room' for high frequencies to exist without aliasing. Then, a proper down-sampling and anti-aliasing filter can be applied to bring the project back to its original sample rate, sans artifacts. So, whether you're incorporating analog gear into your setup or staying entirely digital, being aware of and actively managing aliasing will help ensure your end product is as clean and high-quality as possible.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: I specifically and predominantly specialize in electronic and electronic fusion genres, an area where our production experience truly shines. Over the years, I've honed my skills in synthesizing digital and analog elements to create tracks that pulse with energy and nuance. Whether it's EDM, house, ambient, or genre-blending fusions that incorporate elements of rock, jazz, or classical music, our expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of electronic soundscapes with finesse. However, our passion for music extends far beyond any single genre. We have a deep love for all types of music, from rock and pop to jazz and classical. This wide-ranging musical taste enriches our approach to production, infusing our electronic work with influences from various genres, and also equipping us to work competently across a broad musical spectrum. Whether you're an electronic artist looking to push boundaries or a musician from another genre seeking a fresh perspective, our eclectic taste and technical know-how make us well-suited to bring your musical vision to life.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Our strongest skill lies in the art of mixing, honed over 20 years of self-taught experience in producing, mixing, and mastering. While each stage of audio production is crucial, mixing is where we truly excel, and it's where a song's disparate elements are woven together to create a compelling auditory experience. With a keen ear for balance, depth, and nuance, we have the ability to take raw recordings and transform them into polished, professional-quality tracks. However, what sets us apart is not just our technical expertise, but our unique ability to help artists evolve on a professional scale. We don't just treat a song as a one-off project; we see it as a piece of an artist's evolving portfolio. Through personalized consultations and deep collaboration, we aim to understand an artist's vision and long-term goals. This comprehensive approach ensures that each track serves as a stepping stone towards greater artistic and professional development. With our guidance, artists don't just achieve a high-quality mix; they gain the tools and insights needed to elevate their entire body of work.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: We bring a multi-faceted approach to each song that encompasses technical expertise, creative intuition, and a deep understanding of musical genres and storytelling. Our focus isn't just on capturing sound but on enhancing the emotional impact and narrative flow of the song. From the first note recorded to the final mix and master, we use our state-of-the-art equipment and seasoned techniques to bring out the best in every element—whether it's the warmth of a vocal, the punch of a drum, or the subtlety of a quiet instrumental passage. Our mixing and mastering process is particularly meticulous, designed to highlight each component while achieving a cohesive, balanced, and polished whole. Our goal is not merely to record a song, but to bring it to life, elevating it from a simple melody or beat into a compelling auditory experience. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, our adaptability, and our commitment to delivering a product that resonates both technically and emotionally. In essence, we bring a synthesis of art and engineering to every song, ensuring that it stands out for all the right reasons.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Our typical work process is designed to ensure a smooth, collaborative, and high-quality experience from start to finish. It usually begins with an initial consultation to understand the client's vision, needs, and objectives. This helps us to tailor our approach, whether the project involves music production, post-production audio, or anything in between. Once the project scope is defined, we move on to the pre-production phase where we discuss the technical and creative aspects in detail. This may include song arrangement, instrumentation, and the specific recording equipment that will be used to best capture the essence of the project. The recording phase comes next, utilizing our state-of-the-art studio equipment to ensure optimal sound quality. We make it a point to work closely with the client during this stage, allowing for real-time feedback and adjustments. Our 20 preamp channels and 32 line ins and outs offer the flexibility to accommodate projects of varying scales. After all the recording is done, we proceed to the mixing and mastering stages. Here, we employ a mix of analog and digital gear to bring out the best in the recordings, paying close attention to levels, EQ, dynamics, and spatial positioning. Finally, we present the polished product to the client for review. Any necessary revisions are made at this stage to ensure total satisfaction. Once approved, the final product is delivered in the format(s) the client requires. Our emphasis on communication, professionalism, and technical expertise ensures that we meet deadlines and exceed expectations, making the entire process as seamless as possible.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Our studio is a harmonious blend of vintage warmth and modern precision, offering a versatile environment tailored to meet any project's requirements. The setup is anchored by a powerful Mac Pro, providing unparalleled computing capabilities, and runs on the industry-leading ProTools software for a seamless recording and editing experience. At the heart of our studio is the SSL Big Six Analog Mixer, accompanied by high-quality Rupert Neve gear, including the Portico 2 and Shelford Channel Preamp, which bring depth and richness to the sound. For those who seek a more modern touch, the Avalon 737 VT Preamp and Dangerous D-box+ provide crystal-clear sonic qualities. Recording capabilities are further enhanced by a Focusrite Dante Rednet interface, and the setup features a UAD Satellite 8-core for advanced digital signal processing. Our studio also boasts a Bettermaker Darth Limiter, ensuring that the final mix is perfectly balanced. With 20 preamp channels to run microphones and an expansive 32 line ins and line outs, our studio is fully equipped to handle projects ranging from solo artists to large ensemble recordings. Vocal recordings benefit from a vintage 1979 Neumann U87 microphone, celebrated for its unparalleled sound quality. For accurate monitoring, the studio is fitted with a selection of top-of-the-line speakers: Genelec 1031s, Yamaha NS10s, and Bassboss AT 312 mains, complemented by a Genelec 7380A 15” subwoofer. This assures what you hear during the recording process is as close to the final product as possible. In summary, our studio offers a comprehensive, professional setup that blends the best of vintage and modern technology, ensuring a versatile and high-quality recording experience for any audio project.

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

A: I draw inspiration from a diverse range of musicians and production professionals who have made their mark on the industry. Legendary producers like Quincy Jones and Dr. Dre have shown me the power of blending musical genres and the importance of meticulous production. On the engineering side, names like Geoff Emerick and Bob Clearmountain inspire me with their revolutionary techniques and commitment to sonic excellence. Contemporary figures like Pharrell Williams and Max Martin also serve as great examples of how to remain adaptable and innovative in an ever-evolving industry. These professionals motivate me to push my own boundaries, stay versatile, and keep my passion for music and production alive and thriving.

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

A: The most common type of work I do for my clients involves end-to-end audio production services that span from initial consultation to the final mix and master. Specializing in both music and post-production audio, my role often starts with understanding the client's vision, followed by guiding them through the recording process to ensure that vision is brought to life. Whether you're an independent artist, a band, or a corporate client needing high-quality audio, I offer tailored solutions that fit your specific needs. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration, timely delivery, and exceeding expectations to provide a seamless and satisfying studio experience. With years of expertise and a commitment to excellence, I help my clients not just in achieving impeccable sound, but also in realizing their creative and professional goals.