Episodios

  • #221 - Dave McNair Part 2 - The Lifelong Learner's Guide to Mastering

    #221 - Dave McNair Part 2 - The Lifelong Learner's Guide to Mastering
    Aug 26 2024
    In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters. Get ready for a masterclass in audio wisdom that will transform the way you approach your craft!


    Topics we discuss:
    • ⁠Why mastering to vinyl might be the ultimate audio challenge (and how Dave plans to tackle it in retirement)
    • The surprising power of broad EQ curves in crafting a polished, professional sound
    • How to recreate the magic of analog tape compression in the digital realm
    • Dave's secret weapon for taming harsh sibilance (hint: it's not a traditional de-esser)
    • Why studying classic recordings from the mid-90s is crucial for developing your "internal reference"
    • and more!


    To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    42 m
  • #220 - Dave McNair Part 1 - The Perpetual Balance of Taste and Technique

    #220 - Dave McNair Part 1 - The Perpetual Balance of Taste and Technique
    Aug 19 2024
    In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for producers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with wisdom to elevate your craft. Tune in to discover how to blend artistic intuition with technical precision, and why mastering is more crucial than ever in today's music landscape.


    Topics we discuss:
    • Why your aesthetic intuition is just as important as your technical skills
    • The small adjustments that can have a big impact on the final sound of your tracks
    • Analog vs. Digital
    • Why mastering always starts with mid-side EQ
    • Always prioritizing with the vocal
    • Leaving headroom (and not lying about it ;))


    To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    51 m
  • #219 - Dana Nielsen Part 2 - Vocal Production Mastery

    #219 - Dana Nielsen Part 2 - Vocal Production Mastery
    Aug 12 2024
    In this second part of our interview with Dana Nielsen, we dive deep into the world of vocal production. Dana shares his expertise on working with singers, from capturing great performances to the intricacies of vocal editing and comping. He offers invaluable insights into creating a comfortable environment for artists, reading the room, and knowing when to push for better takes or call it a day. Dana's approach emphasizes the importance of preparation, artist-first mentality, and the ability to adapt to different workflows and personalities in the studio.

    Topics we discuss:
    • Dana's approach to vocal production and recording
    • Techniques for getting the best performances from singers
    • The importance of preparation in studio sessions
    • Navigating different artist personalities and workflows
    • Vocal comping and editing techniques
    • Balancing technical skills with interpersonal awareness
    • Working with high-profile artists like Adele and Ozzy Osbourne


    To learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout

    References:
    The Avett Brothers: "No Hard Feelings" - https://youtu.be/aaU2HvRhCPw?si=sQNcd8NR3Be9r2OY

    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    37 m
  • #218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy

    #218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy
    Aug 5 2024
    Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana shares insights on reading the room, adapting to artists' needs, and navigating studio dynamics. He offers practical advice on creating the right studio vibe, knowing when to speak up, and balancing creative exploration with real-world constraints. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned professionals on becoming an indispensable collaborator in the music production process.

    Topics we discuss:
    • The importance of being a "good hang" in the studio
    • Adapting to different artist personalities and preferences
    • Knowing when to speak up and when to stay quiet in various studio roles
    • Balancing creative exploration with time and budget constraints
    • The value of mentorship and learning from experienced professionals
    • Navigating the delicate balance between technical and interpersonal skills


    To learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    43 m
  • #217 - Nick Nagurka Part 2 - The Psychology of Live Recording

    #217 - Nick Nagurka Part 2 - The Psychology of Live Recording
    Jul 29 2024
    In this second part of our interview with Nick Nagurka, we dive deeper into the human side of Nick’s approach to live band recording. Nick shares insights on creating a comfortable environment for artists, managing the pressure of performance, and maintaining the delicate balance between technical excellence and capturing raw, authentic moments. From fostering trust to handling unexpected challenges, this episode offers a candid look at the interpersonal dynamics that shape the recording process.

    Topics we discuss:
    • Creating a comfortable and trusting environment for artists
    • Balancing the casual vibe of a "retreat" with the focus needed for recording
    • Managing the pressure of performance, especially with video recording
    • The importance of flexibility and taking chances in the recording process
    • Techniques for transitioning from rehearsal mode to performance mode
    • The value of capturing continuous takes and handling unexpected moments
    • Balancing old-school recording techniques with modern post-production tools


    To learn more about Nick - https://www.nicknagurkamusic.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Nick - https://www.instagram.com/thenick

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    40 m
  • #216 - Nick Nagurka Part 1 - Capturing Magical Moments (Live in the Room)

    #216 - Nick Nagurka Part 1 - Capturing Magical Moments (Live in the Room)
    Jul 22 2024
    Welcome to the first interview episode of Secret Sonics 2.0! We're kicking off our revamped format with a bang, pulling back the curtain on the art and science of live band recording with engineer extraordinaire Nick Nagurka.

    Known for his work with Theo Katzman and Vulfpeck, Nick brings a fresh perspective to the age-old challenge of capturing lightning in a bottle.

    Nick's approach turns conventional wisdom on its head, embracing the chaos of bleed and prioritizing the vibe over technical perfection. He shares his unique methods for achieving that elusive "band in a room" sound, from unconventional mic placements to the strategic use of cutting-edge technology.

    This episode is a masterclass in balancing old-school techniques with modern tools, demonstrating how to capture the raw energy of a live performance while maintaining the polish expected in professional recordings. Whether you're a bedroom producer or a seasoned studio vet, Nick's insights will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to push the boundaries of your craft.


    Topics we discuss:
    • Techniques for recording drums in a live setting
    • ⁠Microphone choices and placement strategies
    • Balancing musician comfort with technical requirements
    • ⁠The use of modern tools like iZotope RX in conjunction with traditional recording techniques
    • ⁠The importance of committing to sounds during tracking

    To learn more about Nick - https://www.nicknagurkamusic.com/

    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
    Nick - https://www.instagram.com/thenick

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    40 m
  • #215 - Future-Proofing Your Music Business: Essential Strategies for Sustainable Success

    #215 - Future-Proofing Your Music Business: Essential Strategies for Sustainable Success
    Jul 15 2024
    Ben and Carl discuss key strategies for creating a sustainable and future-proof music production business. They explore topics like consistent lead generation, maintaining client relationships, adapting to industry trends, and differentiating yourself in a crowded market.


    Topics we discuss:
    • The power of consistent lead generation, even during busy periods
    • How to nurture client relationships through simple, genuine check-ins
    • Strategies for staying informed on industry trends without getting overwhelmed
    • Why differentiating yourself is crucial in today's global market
    • The importance of investing in relationships over gear
    Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing


    Connect with us:

    Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
    Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
    Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/

    Thanks to our sponsors!

    Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen

    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout


    Learn more:

    https://www.benwallick.com/
    https://www.carlbahner.com/


    This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/
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    34 m
  • Quick Announcement: The Platinum Pitch (Free Class)

    Quick Announcement: The Platinum Pitch (Free Class)
    Jul 11 2024
    “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS
    Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout
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    1 m