Sound Design, Mixing

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: As opposed to saying one way or the other, I'll just talk a bit about this whole subject. As far as recording goes, some good analog gear and a nice A/D converter is a must. For computer production, mixing and mastering though, its a different story. I've seen a lot of mixing and mastering engineers talk about how "the gear makes all the difference" on YouTube, and that's something I don't really agree with. Don't get me wrong, an expensive mastering compressor will make a difference, by all means, but 97% of a perfectly produced track has nothing to do with what hardware was used post recording. A good second, or third set of ears on a mix matters way more than running it through an $8000 mastering compressor, and costs way less haha. Mixing is almost entirely digital these days, I think because of the digital EQ. EQ's like FabFilter's Pro-Q2 have the ability to individually shape 24 bands, running in Mono/Stereo or Left/Right. Thats untouchable in the analog world... That being said, that mysterious last 3% of post production perfection seems to lay hidden in the circuits and tubes of analog gear...

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: My biggest tip for people just starting out is "WATCH THAT CLIP METER! red means DONT!" I know how frustrating it is when you can't get your music to sound as loud as a professionally produced track but "riding the red" is a very precarious and dangerous habit.

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

A: I'd say "general production" probably describes it best, mostly because no project has been the same. I've written and sculpted synth melodies for up and coming producer/DJ's, mixed songs in several genres, sold hip-hop instrumentals, mastered songs and DJ sets, helped set up home recording studios, replaced speaker cones for live shows, linked vocalist with producers, recorded bands in garages and $100,000 studios... But I still haven't done "it all" haha, there's always something new.

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

A: A long microphone stand to fashion a spear, a huge sheet of sound tarp to keep warm and dry, a presonus firebox because they can start fires and most likely cook a fish, and at that point its pretty much a vacation [.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I usually just try to get a feel for what they're interested in, where they'd like to take their project, and what they'd like me to help with.

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

A: Noisia, Dr. Luke, Hanz Zimmer, Joe Ford, Timbaland, Dr. Dre, Deadmau5, Luca Pretolesi, Trolley Snatcha, Rza from the Wu-Tang Clan, there are just too many...