Unlock the Secrets of Drum Programming vs. Live Drums!

Inside The Recording Studio

#Music #Podcasting Education #Inside The Recording Studio #Inside The Recording

34:35

Marcia Clark, best known as the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson trial, has become a trailblazer for women in law and beyond. Her journey from courtroom to bestselling author reflects her resilience and determination to redefine herself amidst intense public scrutiny. On this episode of Worth Knowing, Clark dives into her latest book, *Trial by Ambush*, which examines the 1953 Barbara Graham case—a story that highlights gender bias, media sensationalism, and the notion that all cases are subject to societal, cultural, and political winds. Clark shares how her experiences during the Simpson trial shaped her perspective on societal pressures and the role of women in high-stakes professions. Her reflections on how media, forensic science, and legal practices have evolved over decades offer valuable insights into the intersection of law and culture. This conversation is a compelling exploration of true crime, personal growth, and how Clark’s groundbreaking career continues to inspire a new generation of women to challenge norms and forge their own paths. Marcia Clark is a bestselling author and a criminal lawyer who began her career in law as a criminal defense attorney and went on to become a prosecutor in the L.A. District Attorney's Office in 1981. She spent ten years in the Special Trials Unit, where she handled a number of high-profile cases, including the prosecution of stalker/murderer Robert Bardo, whose conviction for the murder of actress Rebecca Schaeffer resulted in legislation that offered victims better protection from stalkers as well as increased punishment for the offenders. She was lead prosecutor for the O.J. Simpson murder trial. In May of 1997 her book on the Simpson case, "Without a Doubt," was published and reached #1 on the New York Times, Wall St. Journal, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Publishers Weekly bestsellers lists. In February 2016, Clark re-released the book with a new foreword. Resources Sign up for the Worth Knowing LinkedIn Newsletter to stay up to date: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/worth-knowing-7236433935503618048/ Follow Bonnie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-habyan/ Go to the Worth Knowing website: https://www.worthknowing.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

about a year ago 36:06

MP3•Episode home

Ready to settle the score between drum programming and live drums? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive deep into the pros, cons, and surprising secrets of both worlds. From the unmistakable human feel of live drums to the precision and creativity of programmed beats, we explore:

Which music styles thrive with live drums and which ones are a match made in heaven for drum programming.
When to hit record on live drums for that larger-than-life sound—and when to let your DAW handle the groove.
Avoiding robotic rhythms: Common pitfalls of drum programming and how to keep it feeling fresh.
Why program drums anyway? Cost, control, and those tiny apartments that don’t fit a drum kit.
The best of both worlds: Tips for blending live and programmed drums or samples to craft a killer hybrid sound.

Plus, there’s a mysterious Friday Finds that you won’t want to miss. And let’s be real—it’s also not unlikely that some nonsense will be discussed along the way.

Whether you’re a purist who swears by sticks and skins or a MIDI maestro, this episode is packed with insights to level up your drum game!

#DrumProgramming #LiveDrums #HybridDrums #MusicProductionTips #DrumRecording #StudioLife #AudioEngineering #MixingTips #InsideTheRecordingStudio #FridayFinds

269 episodes

Inside The Recording Studio

Unlock the Secrets of Drum Programming vs. Live Drums!

Inside The Recording Studio

23 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Which music styles thrive with live drums and which ones are a match made in heaven for drum programming.
When to hit record on live drums for that larger-than-life sound—and when to let your DAW handle the groove.
Avoiding robotic rhythms: Common pitfalls of drum programming and how to keep it feeling fresh.
Why program drums anyway? Cost, control, and those tiny apartments that don’t fit a drum kit.
The best of both worlds: Tips for blending live and programmed drums or samples to craft a killer hybrid sound.

Plus, there’s a mysterious Friday Finds that you won’t want to miss. And let’s be real—it’s also not unlikely that some nonsense will be discussed along the way.

Whether you’re a purist who swears by sticks and skins or a MIDI maestro, this episode is packed with insights to level up your drum game!

#DrumProgramming #LiveDrums #HybridDrums #MusicProductionTips #DrumRecording #StudioLife #AudioEngineering #MixingTips #InsideTheRecordingStudio #FridayFinds

269 episodes

#Music #Podcasting Education #Inside The Recording Studio #Inside The Recording

All episodes

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Ultimate Guide to Studio File Organization: Perfect Delivery Every Time! 37:28

4 days ago37:28

37:28

Organized Audio: Mastering File Management & Delivery in the Studio Let’s be honest—file management isn’t glamorous, but it can be the difference between a smooth project and a full-blown data disaster. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody tackle the often-overlooked (and frequently dreaded) topic of file management and delivery workflows in audio production. Whether you’re working solo in a home studio or collaborating with clients around the world, getting your digital house in order is crucial. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: Best practices for naming audio files and sessions so they stay organized and searchable How to set up an efficient folder structure to avoid chaos later Why metadata tagging can save your future self a world of trouble The pros and cons of delivery methods like Dropbox, Google Drive, WeTransfer, FTP, and even good ol’ physical media How to choose the right delivery method based on project scale, client expectations, and security Plus, Chris and Jody share real-world file fails (yes, it’s happened to all of us), some tips for client communication, and—naturally—a bit of nonsense and studio banter to keep it entertaining. Don't forget to check out this week’s Friday Finds for gear or tools that might just make your file-wrangling life easier. Whether you're a freelancer, studio assistant, or full-time audio pro, this episode will help you clean up your workflow, impress your clients, and sleep better knowing you won’t lose that perfect take. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #AudioProduction #FileManagement #MixingWorkflow #AudioDelivery #MusicProductionTips #StudioLife #ClientCollaboration #FridayFinds #HomeStudioWorkflow…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Inside the Studio with Reuben Cohen: Lurssen Mastering Secrets Revealed! 1:21:24

11 days ago1:21:24

1:21:24

Mastering the Craft: A Conversation with Reuben Cohen In this must-hear episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody sit down with the legendary Reuben Cohen—mastering engineer to the stars—for a deep, insightful, and occasionally hilarious conversation about music, business, and sonic obsession. From humble beginnings to mastering some of the biggest songs of the last decade, Reuben shares how he turned his passion into a career, how he built his mastering business from the ground up, and why keeping your ears sharp and your vision clear is the key to longevity in the industry. 🔥 In this episode: How Reuben got his start and carved out a name in a competitive field The “must-have” gear that’s made it onto countless hit records What mastering means at the highest level—and how it’s changed over the years Behind-the-scenes stories involving Metallica, Pharrell, Distinto, and major film soundtracks Real talk about creativity, business hustle, and chasing sonic perfection And yes—there’s this week’s Friday Finds, and as always, it’s not unlikely that a bit of nonsense will sneak into the conversation. Whether you’re a producer, engineer, or just a fan of great music and great minds, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and industry wisdom from one of the best ears in the game. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ReubenCohen #MasteringEngineer #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #SoundtrackMastering #ProAudio #MixingAndMastering #FridayFinds #RecordingStudioLife…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
The Magic of De-Essers: Say Goodbye to Sibilance and Harshness! 29:24

18 days ago29:24

29:24

De-Essers: The Unsung Heroes of Smooth-Sounding Mixes It’s not flashy. It’s not fun. And let’s face it—nobody gets excited about a de-esser. But when sibilance strikes or harshness creeps in, this humble tool can be the difference between a professional-sounding vocal and a wince-worthy one. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody take a non-sexy but absolutely necessary dive into the world of de-essers—what they are, why they matter, and how to wield them like a pro. 🎙️ You’ll learn: What de-essers actually do and why your mix will thank you The mechanics of de-essing, from simple threshold-based tools to dynamic EQ-based solutions Top plugin picks that go beyond the default presets When to use de-essers on instruments (hint: it’s not just for vocals) Common mistakes and how to avoid over-de-essing the life out of your mix This episode is perfect for anyone who’s been surprised by a sharp “S” in playback—or who just wants to make their mixes more polished and listener-friendly. As always, expect a bit of nonsense, a lot of insight, and a new favorite from this week’s Friday Finds. Your ears (and your clients) will be happier for it. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #DeEssers #MixingTips #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #VocalMixing #SibilanceControl #ProAudioTools #MixingEssentials #FridayFinds #HomeStudioLife…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Game-Changing Mix Prep Techniques You Need to Know! 37:08

25 days ago37:08

37:08

Clean Tracks, Clean Mixes: How to Prep Your Multitracks Like a Pro Before a mix can shine, the raw materials need some serious TLC—and that’s exactly what this episode is all about. Join Chris and Jody as they dive into the often overlooked—but critically important—process of prepping multitrack sessions for mixing. Whether you're the recording engineer handing files off to a mix pro or the one doing both jobs yourself, this episode walks you through the smart, efficient steps to get your session mix-ready. From editing and organizing to naming conventions and audio cleanup, discover how Chris and Jody tackle: Vocals (and why cleaning breaths isn’t always the answer) Electric & acoustic guitars (goodbye, string squeaks) Bass tracks (because mud has its limits) Drum kits (hello, phase alignment) Virtual & orchestral instruments (even MIDI needs manners) You’ll also hear tips on gain staging, consolidating files, and setting your mix up for success—plus a few thoughts on what NOT to do when prepping your stems. And as always, there’s a healthy splash of studio nonsense and this week’s Friday Finds to keep it fun. If you’ve ever sent—or received—a mix and thought “What is this chaos?”... this one’s for you. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixPrep #AudioEngineering #MultitrackMixing #RecordingTips #MixingEngineer #TrackCleanup #SessionOrganization #MusicProduction #HomeStudioTips #FridayFinds #ProAudioWorkflow…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
From Static to Dynamic: Elevate Your Mix with Expert Automation Techniques! 33:40

5 weeks ago33:40

33:40

Moving the Faders: How Track and Region-Based Automation Can Transform Your Mixes Automation: it’s not just a buzzword—it’s the secret sauce behind some of the most immersive mixes you’ve ever heard. In this week’s episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody dive deep into the power of track and region-based automation, showing you how to breathe life, movement, and personality into your productions—without lifting a finger (well, maybe just a fader or two). From subtle volume swells to dramatic panning shifts and time-based effect tweaks, automation allows you to sculpt emotion into your audio with pinpoint precision. Whether you're building energy in a chorus, taming an unruly synth, or automating plugin parameters like reverb, EQ, or delay for added dimension, this episode is packed with practical tipsand creative workflows you can start using today. You'll learn: The difference between track-based and region-based automation—and when to use which How to control volume, panning, FX, and plugin settings for dynamic impact Creative automation tricks for space, clarity, and vibe Real-world examples of automation bringing a mix to life As always, expect a little studio banter, a dash of nonsense, and this week’s Friday Finds—because great gear and clever tips go hand in hand. So whether you’re mixing in a pro studio or your bedroom setup, this episode will help you take full control of your sonic universe. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #TrackAutomation #MusicProduction #RegionAutomation #DAWWorkflow #AutomationInMixing #AudioTips #HomeStudioLife #MixingEngineer #MusicTech #FridayFinds…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
How Much Headroom Do You Really Need? The Unsung Hero of Better Mixes 28:28

6 weeks ago28:28

28:28

Finding the Sweet Spot: Why Headroom Matters in Your Mixes You’ve likely heard the term headroom tossed around in audio circles—but how well do you actually understand it? In this week's episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody dive head-first into the often-overlooked (yet wildly important) topic of recording headroom. They break down what it is, why you should care, and how hitting the “sweet spot” of headroom can make all the difference when it comes time to master your mix. 🎛️ In this episode: What exactly headroom is in a digital recording setup Why pushing levels too close to zero can do more harm than good The ideal range to aim for when tracking and mixing Why mastering engineers love (and expect) a well-balanced mix Common mistakes people make and how to avoid them Whether you're a home studio enthusiast or a seasoned engineer, this episode helps you level up your gain staging game—without any of the math headaches. Oh, and yes—there’s the usual dose of studio nonsense, along with this week’s Friday Finds that you won’t want to miss. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicProductionTips #AudioHeadroom #Mixing101 #GainStaging #RecordingStudioLife #MasteringPrep #HomeStudioTips #MixingEngineer #FridayFinds #AudioNerdsUnite…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Stems vs. Multitracks: The Best Lingo Guide for Music Producers! 38:52

7 weeks ago38:52

38:52

What exactly is the difference between stems and multitrack files—and why does it matter when you're sending a session out into the world? In this knowledge-packed episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody unravel the often-confused terms and workflows behind project sharing in modern music production. Whether you're a solo artist collaborating across the globe, a producer prepping tracks for a mix engineer, or someone just trying not to embarrass yourself on a licensing call—this episode helps you sound like you actually know what you're talking about. Learn: The difference between stems and multitracks (finally). Why clarity matters when you're collaborating or outsourcing. What people really mean when they say "send me the stems." The right time to export, organize, and communicate project files. How using the wrong term might derail your mix—or your reputation. And of course, expect the usual helping of nonsense, some studio banter, and a few Friday Finds worth checking out. So if you’ve ever hesitated mid-email wondering "Wait… is this a stem or a multitrack?" — this episode is for you. #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #RecordingStudio #HomeStudio #MultitracksVsStems #CollaborativeRecording #StudioWorkflow #ProAudio…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
New Gear Overload! Tips to Avoid the Trap & Stay Creative 33:28

8 weeks ago33:28

33:28

Shiny New Gear: When to Use It & When to Hold Back We’ve all been there: You finally get your hands on that shiny new plugin, synth, or piece of outboard gear, and suddenly… you want to use it on everything. But should you? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody wade through the muddy waters of gear obsession to answer some important questions: Does every song really need that new effect, plugin, or instrument? Do sleigh bells belong in everything, or should they stay in Christmas songs? Are you buying gear for a real need—or just chasing the thrill of something new? They’ll break down the psychology behind gear purchases, how to integrate new tools effectively, and when it’s time to resist the urge to throw the kitchen sink into your mix. Of course, it wouldn’t be an episode without some nonsense, unexpected tangents, and a Friday Find or two. So if you've ever wondered whether that new compressor is a game-changer or just another dust collector, this episode is for you. #MusicProduction #AudioGear #HomeStudio #MixingTips #InsideTheRecordingStudio #StudioLife #GearObsession #AudioEngineering #NewPlugins #ProAudio…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Master the Low End: Exciting Tips for Perfectly EQ'd Bass! 32:52

9 weeks ago32:52

32:52

Dialing in the Low End: EQ Secrets for a Better Bass Mix When it comes to crafting a solid, powerful mix, few things are more important—or more misunderstood—than EQ'ing your bass tracks. It's the heartbeat of your production, and getting it wrong can sink an otherwise great song. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody grab their sonic shovels and start digging deep into the frequency trenches of the electric bass. Whether you’re a producer, engineer, musician, or bedroom mix wizard, this episode is packed with tips and tricks to help you sculpt the bass sound you've been chasing. What’s Inside This Episode: Breaking down the frequency zones. From the sub frequencies that shake the room to the low mids that can muddy the mix—and even the elusive "air" frequencies—Chris and Jody walk you through the entire EQ landscape. When to cut, when to boost, and why. Not every bass track needs the same treatment. You'll learn how to spot the problem areas and when to tighten things up or let them breathe. How your bass interacts with the rest of your mix. EQ is not a solo mission—it’s about making your bass play nice with drums, guitars, vocals, and everything else. Plus: Don’t miss the signature segment, Friday Finds, where they share new gear, tools, or resources worth checking out. And of course, expect a sprinkle of nonsense to keep things fun. So if you've ever asked yourself, "Why does my bass sound muddy, flabby, or lost in the mix?"—this episode is your roadmap to clarity. #BassEQ #MixingTips #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #InsideTheRecordingStudio #HomeStudio #MixingBass #RecordingPodcast #EQBasics #ProAudio…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Elevate Your Singing Game: Expert Tips on Vocal Mic Placement 31:04

10 weeks ago31:04

31:04

Getting the perfect vocal take isn’t just about talent—it’s about technique, positioning, and knowing how to work the mic. Whether you're tracking in a pro studio or recording in a DIY setup, mic distance can make or break your vocal mix. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody break down the art and science of mic positioning and why finding the sweet spot is crucial for getting that clear, full-bodied, and professional vocal sound. What We’re Covering: How close should a singer be to the mic? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but we’ll explain the general rules and when to break them. What happens when you get it wrong? From muddy, boomy vocals to thin and lifeless recordings, mic distance can have a huge impact on tone and clarity. Should singers hold the mic? Live performance vs. studio tracking—why holding the mic might seem like a good idea, but often leads to unwanted inconsistencies. What is the proximity effect? Ever wondered why getting too close to the mic makes vocals sound overly bass-heavy? We’ll break down how this phenomenon works and how to use it to your advantage (or avoid it entirely!). Fixing common recording mistakes. Whether you’re dealing with plosives, sibilance, or room reflections, we’ll share practical tips to troubleshoot mic placement issues in any recording environment. Bonus: Don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds—where we share the latest gear, plugins, and tricks that could change the way you record vocals forever. It’s all about getting the best vocal takes—without the guesswork. Tune in and let’s demystify the perfect mic placement together! #RecordingVocals #MicPlacement #VocalRecording #HomeStudio #ProAudio #MusicProduction #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #AudioEngineering…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Audio Masking Exposed: How to Bring Every Instrument into the Spotlight! 33:56

11 weeks ago33:56

33:56

Chris and Jody wade into the murky depths of audio masking—a sneaky culprit that can turn your mix into a muddy mess. If your instruments are fighting for attention and your mix feels cluttered, this episode is for you! We’ll explore: What is audio masking? The science behind why some sounds disappear in a mix. Which instruments are the usual suspects? Find out where masking commonly occurs. How to spot (and stop) masking before it kills your clarity. Listening strategies & EQ moves to carve out space for each track. The best software tools to visually detect and fix masking issues. Plus, this week’s Friday Finds brings another audio gem, and—let’s be honest—some nonsense will probably slip through. Whether you’re mixing your first track or refining your pro workflow, this episode will help you clear the mud and make your mix shine! #AudioMasking #MixingTips #MusicProduction #EQTechniques #SoundClarity #HomeStudio #AudioEngineering #InsideTheRecordingStudio #FridayFinds…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Unlock the Secrets of Drum Programming vs. Live Drums! 36:06

12 weeks ago36:06

36:06

Ready to settle the score between drum programming and live drums? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody dive deep into the pros, cons, and surprising secrets of both worlds. From the unmistakable human feel of live drums to the precision and creativity of programmed beats, we explore: Which music styles thrive with live drums and which ones are a match made in heaven for drum programming. When to hit record on live drums for that larger-than-life sound—and when to let your DAW handle the groove. Avoiding robotic rhythms: Common pitfalls of drum programming and how to keep it feeling fresh. Why program drums anyway? Cost, control, and those tiny apartments that don’t fit a drum kit. The best of both worlds: Tips for blending live and programmed drums or samples to craft a killer hybrid sound. Plus, there’s a mysterious Friday Finds that you won’t want to miss. And let’s be real—it’s also not unlikely that some nonsense will be discussed along the way. Whether you’re a purist who swears by sticks and skins or a MIDI maestro, this episode is packed with insights to level up your drum game! #DrumProgramming #LiveDrums #HybridDrums #MusicProductionTips #DrumRecording #StudioLife #AudioEngineering #MixingTips #InsideTheRecordingStudio #FridayFinds…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
From Clutter to Clarity: Expert Layering Techniques for a Powerful Mix! 31:20

13 weeks ago31:20

31:20

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody dive headfirst into the art (and occasional disaster) of layering similar instruments in a mix. When done right, layering can add depth, texture, and power—but when done wrong, you’re left with a cluttered, phasey mess that no amount of EQ can fix. We’re tackling: Synths – Can stacking multiple pads create a lush soundscape, or does it just turn into an undefined blob? Guitars – Doubling and layering techniques that add energy without losing clarity. Basses – Thickening the low end vs. creating an unintelligible rumble. Drums – Why layering kicks and snares can be powerful… but also tricky. Vocals – Finding the right balance between rich harmonies and overprocessed chaos. Along the way, we’ll talk common layering pitfalls, best practices, and how to decide when enough is enough. And of course, no episode would be complete without some nonsense and this week’s mysterious Friday Finds—trust us, you want to hear this one. If you’ve ever struggled with getting layers to sit just right, this episode is packed with actionable mixing tips to help you achieve a bigger, more professional sound without losing clarity. Hit play and let’s stack those layers the right way! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicProduction #LayeringInstruments #MixingTips #AudioEngineering #MusicProducers #HomeStudio #MusicMixing #LayeringTechniques #StudioLife…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
5 EQ Tips for Kick Drums: Transform Your Mix with Pro Secrets! 30:24

14 weeks ago30:24

30:24

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio , Chris and Jody take on a critical piece of every mix—the kick drum. Whether you want deep, chest-thumping lows or a sharp, defined attack, EQ is the key to making your kick sit right in the mix. Here’s what we’re breaking down: Fundamental Low End – How to shape the bass for power without turning your mix into a muddy mess. Low Mids – The trouble zone! Tame the mud or embrace the warmth—your call. Upper Mids – Cutting through the mix without making your kick sound thin or harsh. The “Click” Factor – How the right amount of high-end attack can give your kick drum definition and presence. Plus, we’ll dig into cutting vs. boosting in each range and explain the “why” behind each choice—because knowing what to tweak is only half the battle. And since this episode is all about kicks, we promise plenty of fun, a bit of nonsense, and of course, this week’s mysterious Friday Finds (you definitely don’t want to miss this one). If you’ve ever struggled to make your kick drum hit just right, this episode is packed with practical EQ tips to help you lock in the perfect sound. Hit play and let’s get that low end in shape! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #KickDrumEQ #MixingTips #DrumMixing #MusicProduction #EQTechniques #ProAudio #StudioLife #AudioEngineering #MixingLowEnd…

Inside The Recording Studio

1
Mix Like a Pro: Channel Strips OR Individual Plugins? Find Out Now! 37:20

15 weeks ago37:20