Navigating this musical world can be a real minefield of opinions on gear, production techniques and most all just how much you need to know in order to be charging for your services! In this episode we dispel a lot of myths about 'what it takes', the reality is if you're making music and you're passionate and work hard then you are of value my friends! "Think outside the box", "be creative", "things don't need to be expensive", "Make music, just do it", "inexperience is okay", "you can do amazing things", "always be learning", "age is irrelevant" All of these things hold true!!
I don’t want to sound negative, though I do believe that to be able to think outside the box, you first need to be able to think inside the box. I once heard the phrase from a composer “If someone tells you that there is a rule, break it! Because it’s the only way to push the limits!” I agree with that too, but to break the rules, you have to know and understand them first. Just my 2 cents…
"Think outside the box", "be creative", "things don't need to be expensive", "Make music, just do it", "inexperience is okay", "you can do amazing things", "always be learning", "age is irrelevant"... great episode Warren!
When i first started out I had a love of music and got a loan and went for it no experience, trial error, no youtube etc , used my ears !! lol that's all !! crazy ..and still learning 30 plus years later.. haa
I have my own crappy piano. I recorded it for the first time the other day, and it sounded awesome! Also, I miked it with a couple of Audix Dx-51 drum overhead mics because those are the best matched pair I have right now. So there you go…
Those are some great responses all the way around, Warren. That includes the perceived monopoly some folks have on the 'only' way to work with audio. Some of the recent interviews you've done and people you've covered (Bob Clearmountain, Geoff Emerick, Jack Douglas, and beyond) that reveal the iconic sounds that were discovered by not doing it 'right' but the personality of the sound. Secondly, thanks for your support of those considering getting into audio engineering and those who've been involved for 'slightly more' than a couple years, and not letting self-doubt creep in too far. One question -- did you really have to mention the squeezebox??? My current earworm: The Who. LOL! You rock, my friend!
people need to quit worrying about what gear you have or dont have just focus on writing, practicing, and performing the best undeniable song you can create! It all starts with you! folks, quit limiting your dream by blaming the lack of gear
0:59 - Use it anyway. If it sounds good to you AND the artist... who cares if someone else doesn't like it? The best part of audio production is the sheer subjectivity of it. What sounds amazing to me may sound like hot garbage to someone else. But as an engineer/producer, if the artist is happy with the result, that's really all that matters. Especially nowadays. There are plenty of examples of people dropping cool music without spending $1000 on a mic or $2500 on an outboard compressor. It's just not necessary today like it was 20 years ago.
Yeah true Warren, who would pay £350 plus these days for a Beatles Mic ! I buy Lewett thanks to you! Now would you recommend the Manley Pultec EQP-1A to a master bus / console instead of shelling out £££ on your Pultecs?
I think when a person is ready, depends on his time and effort and talent/Discipline! he put into his /her craft and the willing to sacrifice other things in life a lot of times... If you give a lot, than...You can receive a lot back eventually...What I know: a lot of things in life are related, being good at one thing is in real life ...not good enough...(because it involves also people skills, healthy ego, balanced life, networking, etc...)
I just bought a book : The practise of practise...It,s about: learning strategies...Because...We never know enough... and I want to grow every day, I sacrificed even a family life for that...Life=choices=creating outcomes=being the introspective actor in your own movie.... Respect and good luck to everybody here in plapa...:)
I use my interfaces controller for monitor switching. I have TC Electronic Studiokonnekt 48 interface, which has a separate cat5 connected controller for volume with dim, three monitor switches, talkback, input switches and so on... Incredible amount of control with a mouse sized thingy.. this interface also has great dsp.. this interface is really a modern sleeper gear!
As an engineer who works alone most of the time, I have definitely questioned my own readiness to work professionally and suffered occasional bouts of imposter syndrome. I really appreciate that you've reminded us (newbies and not-so newbies alike) that our love and passion for the work is important, that we're always learning, and that yeah, we can do this. Thank you - what a great video!
I use the Mackie Big Knob Studio as a monitor controller. It has a bunch of inputs and can connect two pairs of studio monitors. It is very well built.
Great information as always! I think having a positive mental attitude is THE most important thing to have, especially working in this people oriented industry. For switching between monitors, I use my Presonus Studio 192 which has A ,B and C built into the control app called UC Surface. Thanks again Warren!
Monitor switching - I use a Behringer Monitor2USB monitor controller - 2 (well, 3) sources, 3 destinations (one mono), mono, dim, 2 headphone outs with "width control" for better imaging - works great - inexpensive.
I use a Mackie big knob. The first version. Expensive ones will sound better but this Mackie is build like a tank and very versatile. I can’t live without it!
I'm pretty happy with the good ol' Mackie Big Knob. I used to play back through a SoundCraft console but when I went to all external preamps and EQ's, I picked up the Big Knob for monitoring. It has great routing options, it supports three sets of monitors, has built in talkback, mic and switch, lots of inputs etc. There's two headphone sends as well with individual volume controls. I keep a 3mm stereo jack attached to allow playback of songs on clients phones through the primary monitors without all crowding around teeny phone speakers. The only drawback is, it's not as quiet as the SoundCraft was but the routing options make up for that.
I don't currently use more than a single pair of monitors, but that's the reason why "back in the day" i was drooling after a TC Electronic StudioKonnekt 48 - in addition to being a very feature-packed (if aging) audio interface, it also had a remote control with a big knob and buttons that you can control many of the inputs, as well as switch between three "sets of monitors" (each with their own levels, alignment delays and subwoofer crossover settings). I got my hands on a dead one almost 5 years ago, revived it and used it as my "home" interface. I still use it to this day, but have "demoted" it to a (glorified?) monitor controller a while ago.
I really agree with this video. The "crappy piano" argument has always made sense to me. We have people spending 2 grand on a guitar amp and owning three different Les Pauls that all pretty much sound the same, and recording a guitar track and then copying the chorus guitar part and pasting it in for all three choruses - if we care about the subtle differences between two Les Pauls, but we're copy/pasting our parts, it's like making a great homemade soup and then dumping in a few cans of Campbells at the end. Warren GETS IT. Love this channel.
Fantastic video. I have been playing since I was 6 I am now 60 . Was on the road for 27 years. And I am still learning all the time you never stop. Love your videos and you will have a tail or two same as me. Keep the videos coming . Your videos are helping lots of people out there. Like your guitar playing we got the same stale Nice 👍
As always...love the video Warren! And also love the updates on which records you are working on!!! Sadly ... your're not always able/allowed to talk about some stuff. I learned a lot from you and the people you interview. You really are a good mentor!
I’m sure there’s better stuff out there, but I’ve had a mackie big knob (original) for a long time. So many inputs and outputs on that thing, it’s pretty much a tiny mixer. Plus, I can plug my turntable in and listen to records while I do boring stuff. Could probably find one fairly cheap on the used market as I did. Definitely solved the issue of pinning my mix to get things loud enough, which I hear a lot of people deal with. If you’ve got the space, it’ll get you started at the very least. Great vid as usual!
I use the Heritage Audio Ram2000. Had the Presonus V2 for about $350, noisy headphone preamps made me move to the Presonus Central Station for about $650, well, you’d think that for double the money, you would get better performance, nope, sure, you get the remote, which is nice, but, the entire unit is very noisy, colors the sound a lot and the microphone switch for the talkback, sounds horrific on your ears, not to mention I had complaints from the talent as well. For about $899, you get the Heritage Audio and you have outputs for 3 references, plus a Sub, plus a bunch of other wonderful options, and it sounds like it’s not even there. Highly recommended. 🖤 thank you Warren for another great and inspiring video.
For monitor switching, I use the Steinberg UR28m. Three pairs of line outputs with individual levels for balancing, two pairs of inputs, two headphone outputs, dim and mono switches etc. And it's a great portable USB interface as well with ok mic pres when doing a location recording, not being able to bring my MOTU 828es. Thanks for the video, Warren!
I grew up in a milieu where I often was told "You are doing it wrong". The better way of saying it, if you really need to say it is "Have you tried doing it this way?". But I get it, if you are in a band situation where everybody wants to put in their ideas, things can sometimes get heated. That's why A-B-testing is great. Just try things out, and if you are at an impasse, leave it for a while, let it simmer on the back burner, concentrate on something else. And try to put your ego aside for the good of the song. Unless you really are right, then to hell with everybody else. :-D :-D
I'm totally with you on the character stuff approach. Cover the basics with reference equipment and then go for what is apealing to you. It's like tracking/production: get as much intention and vibe as possible.
Using the Presonus Monitor Station v2, it' been a great tool I've had a couple years with 3 inputs and able to support 3 sets of monitors (plus 4 headphone ports which is nice to have).
@@Producelikeapro this one is pushing me over the edge. Ive been watching for some time now, i've been making moves namely into a new house which has a studio space. One day I'll have a channel devoted to the build out and all that up and coming stuff. I'll then have to do a video about this communities heroes, and I hope I'll be able to capture all the techniques ive learned expressly from youtubers like yourself in one epic thank you shoutout. In the meantime, you sir have a marvelous weekend and happy mixing..!
I've used dynamic mics as overheads before now. There's an issue really of finding the balance between gain (which affects sensitivity to input signals) and volume (which is more about the output level) but it's do-able with reasonable results. One time, I just dangled a single AKG D880S above the snare drum. It worked.
I use the jbl m patch active 1 for controlling monitors. It’s nothing fancy and quite basic in design. But it really works well and doesn’t degrade the sound (at least I don’t notice). Cheers
Awesome episode and advice. Sometimes we get caught in the hype of gear that we truly forget that the sound is within us as well as the creativity. Thanks...!!!
Hi Warren, I used to use one of those Mackie Big Knob units for monitoring and T/B. (it kinda did the job for a while).... but... I knew I was being lazy, in that I was using one of those RME Multiface PCI cards and interfaces. It of course, had Totalmix driving it. Anyway, to shorten the story... once I moved onto a RME UFX and then subsequent UFXII, I decided to commit to Totalmix as my monitor control, T/B and generally everything to do with monitor routing. It has been wonderful. With the push of a button from the ARC USB, I can change monitor setups and even switch between various 5.1 setups also. (the talkback routing is incredible also) It has been a game changer here. (Switching between KRKs Barefoot MM27.. and in my smaller studio, KRKs and Footprint 01s).
Eddie Van Halen's Frankenstein guitar is a cobbled together piece of crap, but now guitarists and engineers spend countless hours and dollars replicating the sound.
I've always thought that! Once saw a pic of Eric Johnson's pedalboard and it was full of dirty old crappy looking cables. Gear really doesn't matter as much as people think it does when someone has innate ability
Same with Brian May - skilfully made a guitar out of a fireplace with his dad in the spare room. Now they sell shed loads of copies of that guitar - point is it was unique, and his, and that was his sound.
PreSonus has a great monitor controller that's feature rich. Switch between three sets, volume, dim button, and a four output headphone amp. Multi-input too.
Thank you as ever, Warren and the crew, for putting out these great videos! On the same note of getting started professionally, what would you advise beginners to generate leads? (business talk for getting clients)... They do not have big artist names to shout out at their clients nor do they have years of experience and flashy gear. What things can they say or do in order to get off the ground? thanks for reading, stay curious :)
If you were recording and mixing completely in the box, would your preference be to add plugins during recording, to record completely dry and leave the plugins to the mixing phase, or would the project itself dictate your approach? You've put up some GREAT Videos this week, a very Huge Thank You Warren!!
You've made my day Warren! I have trouble cutting myself some slack! I just started freelancing after having been recording myself for years!!! I'm recording a cover album for a client where i play all the instruments...i am learning sooooo much !! And getting paid !!! Whaaaaat???? Yeah it's pretty rewarding! Is that an Ace Frehley Lightning bolt guitar strap up there !?!?!? :)
Regarding monitor switching, I'm just an ole fart, so I run the output from my interface (focusrite solo) to an old stereo amp (Audiolab 8000a) which has two sets of speaker outputs, and simply switch a/b. Of course my "monitors" are NOT self powered "Studio monitors", they're passive hifi speakers (I know, I'm doing it wrong, shock horror LoL). Currently running an old pair of B&W dm110's, and a pair of 3 way homebrew speakers using Kef drive units from 1972! Is it a "pro" setup, nah, but it'll do me for now, whilst I'm cutting my teeth in this wonderful world of music. I'm having fun, to me that's all that matters. ;0) And it wouldn't be half as much fun, without what you do Warren, thanks for the educational information, it really is golden, I just wish my ears were LoL.
I always loved the sound of your "crappy" piano. Maybe it's because I'm a fan of westerns and that piano reminds me of what you'd hear being played at the Longbranch Saloon in Dodge City. Cue "Oh, Susanna". I've been using a cheap Digital Reference Red Howler bullet mic for playing harmonica for a few years. It's basically the poor-man's clone of the Shure Green Bullet. Still, I really like the way it sounds when I play through it, despite the fact that it can feedback like a squealing sow. Plus, I love its snazzy candy-apple red color. It's the same color as the cheap little '83 Plymouth Horizon I used to have when I used to have a car. (Damn thing couldn't go over 80 without shaking apart, but I still miss that little hatchback, regardless.)
Positive attitude in the studio is always great advice. Presonus central station is a good and affordable monitor controller that I use! 2 sets plus a sub!
@@Producelikeapro love your channel!! Ended up working with Brad cook recently and wouldn't have recognized him if it weren't for your amazing episodes with him! Thanks for the amazing content I learn so much from it.
I have three sets of monitors, (Adam A7X, 2 Mixcubes and Eris 3.5s). I run my mains out of my Apollo twin into the Coleman Audio LS3 line level selector. The LS3 allows you to run 1, 2, or all pairs of monitors at the same time, (if that’s something you want to try). Each of the monitors have their own volume control, so I’m not worried about a switcher with volume controls. Hope that helps someone.
Thank you Warren for another great video. I have two pais of monitors, M- Audio and Makie and I use the Scarllet Mix Control to swith between them. I find it so easy to control all my monitoring system and headphone mixes when tracking with this software and it´s funny how I hated it at first until a colleage told me, "that piece of software is your interface, get to know it!"
Loving these questions. The first one is awesome! It's also the reason I almost never sell any instruments, amps or effects... And also... Being negative is easier I guess...
Awesome stuff (advise) love your insight very helpful - I have a saying I use on people all the time (A little creativity goes along way) A lot of creativity will take you places you may have never dreamed could happen.
That's why I hold on to all my equipment. Any equipment that I do sell, I take a few steps back and really wish I didn't sell it. I can think back of some of the things I don't think I should have sold and I sold them anyways cuz somebody was telling me it was a good idea that I get rid of something I'm just not immediately using. I used to have a Moog synthesizer that was made by the RadioShack Corporation, wish I didn't sell that. I had a 50 watt Marshall tube amp I believe it was a jcm 50 that was another big loss. I had a pair of Stax headphones, the best headphones I think I ever owned except they were electrostatic headphones which meant you only could listen to it when you're tied to the stereo, still the best headphones I had. I remember my parents had an upright piano it was Outta tune in the basement and every other week something would be going on with one of those keys. When they moved it to the new place, everything was all tuned up and it looked like it came out of a showroom, that was a panel I grew up with, still wish I had that. When that panel was run down, I don't think there was any other piano on the planet could make the song the Entertainer sound any better. The tough thing is finding a space for everything. Unfortunately, we all can't be Nigel from spinal tap and have this museum for our equipment, right? If you had to rate the level of the equipment that I had like it was laid out, the readings would have to go to 11. But, if you do have room to keep that stuff, hold on to it because you could always pick it up and play it a few more times anytime you feel like it now that you're thinking about it.
Very encouraging video as always :) About the monitor switching: I own an Audient id44 and it supports two monitors with a dedicated monitor switch button. It would be a good choice if one has changing the interface in mind as well. If there are more than 2 monitors or the current interface will stay, I’d definitely recommend the Nero. Who doesn’t love a new piece of gear :)))
Multiple Monitors?? I use the Presonus Monitor Station, I have the older version... Mackie has the "Big Knob"... I can't remember why I went with the Monitor Station... Maybe the 4 headphone preamps? Maybe the talkback mic? Maybe the 3 outputs?? it works well for me in my meager studio... Good luck!
Thank you the second question, that is something I needed to hear because I have left me career as a early childhood educator and I have gone full time. I am nervous and also excited!! PS The Radial MC3 Monitor Control, it helps me switch between my Avantone Mixcubes and Kali LP-6s plus I also check in headphones. I have a FAQ question; Warren what are your thoughts on trading services? I ask this because "the budget" does not always suits the ability to hire other musicians. I thought that I could offer my time and services of equal value in return to the "hired gun" when the budget allow money payment.
There is something inspiring about using something with history. Hand a singer a mike that was used by one of their hero’s just might bring out the best vocal take ever from that singer. A guitar used by a famous player could inspire your best performance. It’s all magic, but it does work, even if you lied about the history, it could be the magic needed for a great mix. Just my opinion.
Hi Warren, great content as always! I'd like to know if you ever mic up the ride cymbal when recording drums or just mostly rely on the overheads? If so, in what type of situation would you consider putting a mic on the ride? Thanks, Tom
Since I only got two set of monitorsI my system is quite simple. I use an old patchbay, right in front of me. I was thinking of the smallest Mackie Control, but if I'll ever get a third pair of monitors, I 'd have tp patch again, so I keep it this way.
Excellent FAQ Friday Warren! The Audient Nero looks like a "gear" piece of gear! I would also suggest the Presonus Monitor Station V2 and the Radial Engineering MC3 as viable options. Here's a "heads up" for you: Sometime in January between my birthday and your birthday, I (might) have a surprise for you. 😜
Id love to hear from Joel Hamilton breaking down one of Highly Suspects songs. That band kicks ass and their recordings have such a massive sound! Also Studio G Brooklyn looks like a wet dream
What's really gonna bake your noodle is that some of the more distinguished composers can be identified no matter which orchestra plays their music. Whilst instrument specific personality is important: do not underestimate the importance of developing your _own_ compositional style.
on the subject of unique gear, a few years ago i bought an old dusty DOD compressor at a garage sale for $50. tried it on the typical things u would use a vca compressor on like drums, bass, master buss, never was anything special. A month ago i tried it on the lead vocal of a mix and it blew all my plugins away. I havent used anything else for my lead vocal since
We live in an era of audio production where quality at an introductory level is equal to that, or better, than what was available in 20 years ago at the profession level. This has lead people to squable a bit too much about the 1% differences between great emulations and the real thing or quality low cost microphobes and $5000 mics and this inhibits the ability to just get stuck into it and create great music and foster quality creativity. There's a good reason why an amazing performance of a girl in her room with a guitar and her voice recorded on an iPhone can go viral even though the audio quality is crap: because performance trumps everything else. $1000 is more than enough to start kicking ass and making amazing songs because we all have gear that is better quality, objectively, than what was available 20-30 years ago. So pull up the mic, set the gain, and fucking kick ass!
Great video as always... one question.... how do you articulate and present so well without an audience? I always seem to need an audience to present well.
Hi Warren, due to some circumstances a drum recording was done at 44.1kHz, and the rest of the tracks were recorded at 48kHz. What would it best, convert the drums to 48kHz or to convert the rest of the tracks to 44.1Khz ?
Hi Warren. Do you ever go out of the box again with recorded tracks or busses to include external analog processing, or do you only apply analog processing at the recording stage? I am curious about the impact of multiple analog/digital conversions. Erwin, The Netherlands.
I would recommend the younger engineers try and listen to as many different genres and decades of music as possible. You can bring a lot more to the table sonically by having a broader pallet to reference. Plus you’ll get more work if you’re good at multiple genres.
Great FAQ friday as always. I was wondering if you are on a budget and can only afford smaller monitors how you would deal with low end bass without a sub. Is there any way of knowing how this would translate to a larger system.
Amazing as Always ! You've Always been an inspiration to me , I hope we can collaborate on something together (My work is on my channel and Spotify ) Your support means a lot
Question: Hi PLAP, I’m considering getting a sub, because the active speakers I currently use, only have 5 inch drivers, and obviously I want an accurate representation of how much low end is in the mix. But as with so many things, it’s too easy to imagine that somehow this will make a big difference and I get as gear-hungry as the next person when I I’m in that mood. But, are they really necessary, are they any good, what is your experience and can you recommend a few?
How to mix vocal properly, the problem that i facing is harsh vocal transient, how to fix that so that it wont jump out of the mix. I used many compressor with high attack but nothing feels right, what do you do to get pro result?. Waiting for your take on it.
Important to learn to identify and ignore fanboys who fixate on their favorite gear. :) it's more about how you use what you have. When a guy says things like, "it's the only one to use" or "Hands down the best..."... Maybe look in to his actual accomplishments. I've seen guys do some pretty amazing things with some pretty run of the mill gear.
Navigating this musical world can be a real minefield of opinions on gear, production techniques and most all just how much you need to know in order to be charging for your services! In this episode we dispel a lot of myths about 'what it takes', the reality is if you're making music and you're passionate and work hard then you are of value my friends! "Think outside the box", "be creative", "things don't need to be expensive", "Make music, just do it", "inexperience is okay", "you can do amazing things", "always be learning", "age is irrelevant" All of these things hold true!!
Great advice as usual warren, thank you for all you do for us!
@@darlenesheffield9835 thanks ever so much my friend!!
@@chris-rb7bm haha thanks ever so much!
I don’t want to sound negative, though I do believe that to be able to think outside the box, you first need to be able to think inside the box. I once heard the phrase from a composer “If someone tells you that there is a rule, break it! Because it’s the only way to push the limits!” I agree with that too, but to break the rules, you have to know and understand them first. Just my 2 cents…
I like the expression... a great song is the best piece of gear there is. Love your channel!
"Think outside the box", "be creative", "things don't need to be expensive", "Make music, just do it", "inexperience is okay", "you can do amazing things", "always be learning", "age is irrelevant"... great episode Warren!
Thanks ever so much my friend! I really appreciate it!! I'm so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
P.S I took your comments of my comments! Thanks ever so much for posting!! You Rock!!
@@Producelikeapro thank you Warren your positivity and encouragement are meaningful and inspiring!
@@ragingchimera8021 you rock my friend!
The Presonus Monitor Station does the job for me!
When i first started out I had a love of music and got a loan and went for it no experience, trial error, no youtube etc , used my ears !! lol that's all !! crazy ..and still learning 30 plus years later.. haa
Thanks ever so much Ron! Always learning my friend!!
@@Producelikeapro And I miss getting my groove on! Haa
@@ronmockridge246 it's all about learning and growing!
I have my own crappy piano. I recorded it for the first time the other day, and it sounded awesome! Also, I miked it with a couple of Audix Dx-51 drum overhead mics because those are the best matched pair I have right now. So there you go…
Thanks ever so much for sharing! I really appreciate it!
Those are some great responses all the way around, Warren. That includes the perceived monopoly some folks have on the 'only' way to work with audio. Some of the recent interviews you've done and people you've covered (Bob Clearmountain, Geoff Emerick, Jack Douglas, and beyond) that reveal the iconic sounds that were discovered by not doing it 'right' but the personality of the sound. Secondly, thanks for your support of those considering getting into audio engineering and those who've been involved for 'slightly more' than a couple years, and not letting self-doubt creep in too far. One question -- did you really have to mention the squeezebox??? My current earworm: The Who. LOL! You rock, my friend!
people need to quit worrying about what gear you have or dont have just focus on writing, practicing, and performing the best undeniable song you can create! It all starts with you! folks, quit limiting your dream by blaming the lack of gear
Yes, agreed 100%!! Thanks ever so much for sharing!
0:59 - Use it anyway. If it sounds good to you AND the artist... who cares if someone else doesn't like it?
The best part of audio production is the sheer subjectivity of it. What sounds amazing to me may sound like hot garbage to someone else. But as an engineer/producer, if the artist is happy with the result, that's really all that matters. Especially nowadays. There are plenty of examples of people dropping cool music without spending $1000 on a mic or $2500 on an outboard compressor. It's just not necessary today like it was 20 years ago.
Thanks ever so much my friend! Marvellous comment!
Yeah true Warren, who would pay £350 plus these days for a Beatles Mic ! I buy Lewett thanks to you! Now would you recommend the Manley Pultec EQP-1A to a master bus / console instead of shelling out £££ on your Pultecs?
Haha you are far too kind my friend! I appreciate everything you do all of us here in our community! You are true thought leader!!
Manley any thoughts ?
@@ronmockridge246 love all things Manley! EveAnna is such a badass!
I think when a person is ready, depends on his time and effort and talent/Discipline! he put into his /her craft and the willing to sacrifice other things in life a lot of times... If you give a lot, than...You can receive a lot back eventually...What I know: a lot of things in life are related, being good at one thing is in real life ...not good enough...(because it involves also people skills, healthy ego, balanced life, networking, etc...)
I just bought a book : The practise of practise...It,s about: learning strategies...Because...We never know enough... and I want to grow every day, I sacrificed even a family life for that...Life=choices=creating outcomes=being the introspective actor in your own movie.... Respect and good luck to everybody here in plapa...:)
Thanks for your great comment Jeroen!
@@Producelikeapro Thank you Warren!!!!!
@@drummerjeroensimons you're very welcome my friend!
I use my interfaces controller for monitor switching.
I have TC Electronic Studiokonnekt 48 interface, which has a separate cat5 connected controller for volume with dim, three monitor switches, talkback, input switches and so on... Incredible amount of control with a mouse sized thingy.. this interface also has great dsp.. this interface is really a modern sleeper gear!
As an engineer who works alone most of the time, I have definitely questioned my own readiness to work professionally and suffered occasional bouts of imposter syndrome. I really appreciate that you've reminded us (newbies and not-so newbies alike) that our love and passion for the work is important, that we're always learning, and that yeah, we can do this. Thank you - what a great video!
Watching this @ 10am just got me pumped for my session today.... Thank you Warren....
I use the Mackie Big Knob Studio as a monitor controller. It has a bunch of inputs and can connect two pairs of studio monitors. It is very well built.
Thanks ever so much Lee! I appreciate you sharing!
I have the family piano...Slightly out of tune , but I still use it from time to time. A little chorusiss lol
That's great to hear Edwin!
Great information as always!
I think having a positive mental attitude is THE most important thing to have, especially working in this people oriented industry.
For switching between monitors, I use my Presonus Studio 192 which has A ,B and C built into the control app called UC Surface.
Thanks again Warren!
Monitor switching - I use a Behringer Monitor2USB monitor controller - 2 (well, 3) sources, 3 destinations (one mono), mono, dim, 2 headphone outs with "width control" for better imaging - works great - inexpensive.
Thanks ever so much Chris! I really appreciate it!
Why do you use the D 19?
It was plugged in, ready to go.
Your logic is sound.
Haha yes, indeed!
Hi Warren, I always look forward to watching FAQ Friday, Great episode and advice, Thank you, all the best.
You're very kind Darren! Thanks ever so much for all of your support!
I use a Mackie big knob. The first version. Expensive ones will sound better but this Mackie is build like a tank and very versatile. I can’t live without it!
Thanks for sharing my friend!
I'm pretty happy with the good ol' Mackie Big Knob. I used to play back through a SoundCraft console but when I went to all external preamps and EQ's, I picked up the Big Knob for monitoring. It has great routing options, it supports three sets of monitors, has built in talkback, mic and switch, lots of inputs etc. There's two headphone sends as well with individual volume controls. I keep a 3mm stereo jack attached to allow playback of songs on clients phones through the primary monitors without all crowding around teeny phone speakers. The only drawback is, it's not as quiet as the SoundCraft was but the routing options make up for that.
Thank you so much for this!! I soooo needed to hear it!
You're very welcome my friend!!
I don't currently use more than a single pair of monitors, but that's the reason why "back in the day" i was drooling after a TC Electronic StudioKonnekt 48 - in addition to being a very feature-packed (if aging) audio interface, it also had a remote control with a big knob and buttons that you can control many of the inputs, as well as switch between three "sets of monitors" (each with their own levels, alignment delays and subwoofer crossover settings).
I got my hands on a dead one almost 5 years ago, revived it and used it as my "home" interface. I still use it to this day, but have "demoted" it to a (glorified?) monitor controller a while ago.
I really agree with this video. The "crappy piano" argument has always made sense to me. We have people spending 2 grand on a guitar amp and owning three different Les Pauls that all pretty much sound the same, and recording a guitar track and then copying the chorus guitar part and pasting it in for all three choruses - if we care about the subtle differences between two Les Pauls, but we're copy/pasting our parts, it's like making a great homemade soup and then dumping in a few cans of Campbells at the end. Warren GETS IT. Love this channel.
Fantastic video. I have been playing since I was 6 I am now 60 . Was on the road for 27 years. And I am still learning all the time you never stop. Love your videos and you will have a tail or two same as me. Keep the videos coming . Your videos are helping lots of people out there. Like your guitar playing we got the same stale Nice 👍
As always...love the video Warren! And also love the updates on which records you are working on!!! Sadly ... your're not always able/allowed to talk about some stuff. I learned a lot from you and the people you interview. You really are a good mentor!
Thanks very much Matthias! You Rock my friend!
THE most inspiring and motivating PLAP episode
Thanks ever so much!!
I’m sure there’s better stuff out there, but I’ve had a mackie big knob (original) for a long time. So many inputs and outputs on that thing, it’s pretty much a tiny mixer. Plus, I can plug my turntable in and listen to records while I do boring stuff. Could probably find one fairly cheap on the used market as I did. Definitely solved the issue of pinning my mix to get things loud enough, which I hear a lot of people deal with. If you’ve got the space, it’ll get you started at the very least. Great vid as usual!
Positivity!! Awesome advise!
You're very welcome Willy!
Thanks Warren. I always appreciate your positivity.
Excellent questions and excellent advice. Leaning new stuff is really the icing on the cake. Thanks so much.
Thanks ever so much David! You Rock!!
I use the Heritage Audio Ram2000. Had the Presonus V2 for about $350, noisy headphone preamps made me move to the Presonus Central Station for about $650, well, you’d think that for double the money, you would get better performance, nope, sure, you get the remote, which is nice, but, the entire unit is very noisy, colors the sound a lot and the microphone switch for the talkback, sounds horrific on your ears, not to mention I had complaints from the talent as well. For about $899, you get the Heritage Audio and you have outputs for 3 references, plus a Sub, plus a bunch of other wonderful options, and it sounds like it’s not even there. Highly recommended. 🖤 thank you Warren for another great and inspiring video.
For monitor switching, I use the Steinberg UR28m. Three pairs of line outputs with individual levels for balancing, two pairs of inputs, two headphone outputs, dim and mono switches etc. And it's a great portable USB interface as well with ok mic pres when doing a location recording, not being able to bring my MOTU 828es. Thanks for the video, Warren!
That was so inspiring Warren...... Your doing so much for your comunnity .Pat on the back for being real .
I grew up in a milieu where I often was told "You are doing it wrong". The better way of saying it, if you really need to say it is "Have you tried doing it this way?". But I get it, if you are in a band situation where everybody wants to put in their ideas, things can sometimes get heated. That's why A-B-testing is great. Just try things out, and if you are at an impasse, leave it for a while, let it simmer on the back burner, concentrate on something else. And try to put your ego aside for the good of the song. Unless you really are right, then to hell with everybody else. :-D :-D
Great advice for diving in and starting out. Thanks again for the encouragement. Cheers!
Thanks ever so much Luke! You Rock!
I'm totally with you on the character stuff approach. Cover the basics with reference equipment and then go for what is apealing to you. It's like tracking/production: get as much intention and vibe as possible.
Using the Presonus Monitor Station v2, it' been a great tool I've had a couple years with 3 inputs and able to support 3 sets of monitors (plus 4 headphone ports which is nice to have).
Thank you. For all the encouragement, in every video.
You're very welcome Derek!
@@Producelikeapro this one is pushing me over the edge. Ive been watching for some time now, i've been making moves namely into a new house which has a studio space. One day I'll have a channel devoted to the build out and all that up and coming stuff. I'll then have to do a video about this communities heroes, and I hope I'll be able to capture all the techniques ive learned expressly from youtubers like yourself in one epic thank you shoutout. In the meantime, you sir have a marvelous weekend and happy mixing..!
I've used dynamic mics as overheads before now. There's an issue really of finding the balance between gain (which affects sensitivity to input signals) and volume (which is more about the output level) but it's do-able with reasonable results. One time, I just dangled a single AKG D880S above the snare drum. It worked.
I use the jbl m patch active 1 for controlling monitors. It’s nothing fancy and quite basic in design. But it really works well and doesn’t degrade the sound (at least I don’t notice). Cheers
Thanks ever so much for sharing my friend!
Awesome episode and advice. Sometimes we get caught in the hype of gear that we truly forget that the sound is within us as well as the creativity. Thanks...!!!
Hi Warren,
I used to use one of those Mackie Big Knob units for monitoring and T/B. (it kinda did the job for a while).... but... I knew I was being lazy, in that I was using one of those RME Multiface PCI cards and interfaces. It of course, had Totalmix driving it.
Anyway, to shorten the story... once I moved onto a RME UFX and then subsequent UFXII, I decided to commit to Totalmix as my monitor control, T/B and generally everything to do with monitor routing.
It has been wonderful.
With the push of a button from the ARC USB, I can change monitor setups and even switch between various 5.1 setups also. (the talkback routing is incredible also) It has been a game changer here. (Switching between KRKs Barefoot MM27.. and in my smaller studio, KRKs and Footprint 01s).
My mom's old piano sounds the best I've ever heard! It was made in the USSR late 60s.
Fantastic! I'm sure it sounds fantastic!
Eddie Van Halen's Frankenstein guitar is a cobbled together piece of crap, but now guitarists and engineers spend countless hours and dollars replicating the sound.
Exactly! Extremely good point my friend!!
I've always thought that! Once saw a pic of Eric Johnson's pedalboard and it was full of dirty old crappy looking cables. Gear really doesn't matter as much as people think it does when someone has innate ability
@@EddieVanAidan yes, very true indeed!!
Same with Brian May - skilfully made a guitar out of a fireplace with his dad in the spare room. Now they sell shed loads of copies of that guitar - point is it was unique, and his, and that was his sound.
PreSonus has a great monitor controller that's feature rich. Switch between three sets, volume, dim button, and a four output headphone amp. Multi-input too.
Thank you as ever, Warren and the crew, for putting out these great videos!
On the same note of getting started professionally, what would you advise beginners to generate leads? (business talk for getting clients)...
They do not have big artist names to shout out at their clients nor do they have years of experience and flashy gear. What things can they say or do in order to get off the ground?
thanks for reading, stay curious :)
Experimentation always makes a good engineer less is more as well
Yes, indeed John! I agree 100%!
If you were recording and mixing completely in the box, would your preference be to add plugins during recording, to record completely dry and leave the plugins to the mixing phase, or would the project itself dictate your approach?
You've put up some GREAT Videos this week, a very Huge Thank You Warren!!
Monitor switching using Mackie BIG KNOB. 3 monitor outs, and all volume adjustable.
Love ya man! Great video with a meaningful message for beginners and even seasoned pros. Another excellent chunk of 'sound's wisdom.
You've made my day Warren! I have trouble cutting myself some slack! I just started freelancing after having been recording myself for years!!! I'm recording a cover album for a client where i play all the instruments...i am learning sooooo much !! And getting paid !!! Whaaaaat???? Yeah it's pretty rewarding!
Is that an Ace Frehley Lightning bolt guitar strap up there !?!?!? :)
Great advice as usual warren, thank you for all you do for us!
Thanks ever so much Darlene! You're very welcome! I'm so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
Regarding monitor switching, I'm just an ole fart, so I run the output from my interface (focusrite solo) to an old stereo amp (Audiolab 8000a) which has two sets of speaker outputs, and simply switch a/b.
Of course my "monitors" are NOT self powered "Studio monitors", they're passive hifi speakers (I know, I'm doing it wrong, shock horror LoL).
Currently running an old pair of B&W dm110's, and a pair of 3 way homebrew speakers using Kef drive units from 1972!
Is it a "pro" setup, nah, but it'll do me for now, whilst I'm cutting my teeth in this wonderful world of music.
I'm having fun, to me that's all that matters. ;0)
And it wouldn't be half as much fun, without what you do Warren, thanks for the educational information, it really is golden, I just wish my ears were LoL.
I use the Switch Witch as well! for many years. I balance the monitor levels by adjusting the power amps.
Hi Thaddeus Corea wonderful! Thanks for sharing!!
Thanks Warren, this is a helpful encouragement. 🌱
Congrats on 5 videos a week! We’ve been doing 7-14 videos a week :) it’s all good fun!!!
Congratulations!! You're an inspiration!
Produce Like A Pro as are you!!
Joey Sturgis Tones thanks my friend!!
I always loved the sound of your "crappy" piano. Maybe it's because I'm a fan of westerns and that piano reminds me of what you'd hear being played at the Longbranch Saloon in Dodge City. Cue "Oh, Susanna".
I've been using a cheap Digital Reference Red Howler bullet mic for playing harmonica for a few years. It's basically the poor-man's clone of the Shure Green Bullet. Still, I really like the way it sounds when I play through it, despite the fact that it can feedback like a squealing sow. Plus, I love its snazzy candy-apple red color. It's the same color as the cheap little '83 Plymouth Horizon I used to have when I used to have a car. (Damn thing couldn't go over 80 without shaking apart, but I still miss that little hatchback, regardless.)
We use the Drawmer MC3.1 for our monitor switching....awesome!!!
Hognvette thanks ever so much for sharing!!
Positive attitude in the studio is always great advice. Presonus central station is a good and affordable monitor controller that I use! 2 sets plus a sub!
Hi Kenny, yes, I do agree 100% my friend!
@@Producelikeapro love your channel!! Ended up working with Brad cook recently and wouldn't have recognized him if it weren't for your amazing episodes with him! Thanks for the amazing content I learn so much from it.
@@Kennyschwartz that's fantastic to hear! It's amazing to be able to bring huge talents like Brad to the fore!
I have three sets of monitors, (Adam A7X, 2 Mixcubes and Eris 3.5s). I run my mains out of my Apollo twin into the Coleman Audio LS3 line level selector. The LS3 allows you to run 1, 2, or all pairs of monitors at the same time, (if that’s something you want to try). Each of the monitors have their own volume control, so I’m not worried about a switcher with volume controls.
Hope that helps someone.
The first 12 mins really did a number on me. Thanks
Thank you Warren for another great video. I have two pais of monitors, M- Audio and Makie and I use the Scarllet Mix Control to swith between them. I find it so easy to control all my monitoring system and headphone mixes when tracking with this software and it´s funny how I hated it at first until a colleage told me, "that piece of software is your interface, get to know it!"
Thanks Produce Like A Pro!
You're very welcome! Thank you!!
LOVE the Kali Monitors!!
Hi TechWith Todd thanks ever so much!!
Produce Like A Pro great vid!
Hi TechWith Todd thanks ever so much!
Always the best information
Thanks ever so much!
Loving these questions. The first one is awesome! It's also the reason I almost never sell any instruments, amps or effects...
And also... Being negative is easier I guess...
Thanks for the videos. I learn a lot from it.
Thanks much appreciated for this and I agree learning is a blessing 👍🏾😊👍🏾
Dave Hill Avocet monitor controller here - reasonably priced in the 2nd hand market and makes a huge difference in terms of DA
Awesome stuff (advise) love your insight very helpful - I have a saying I use on people all the time (A little creativity goes along way) A lot of creativity will take you places you may have never dreamed could happen.
Steve Weilhart thanks ever so much my friend! I’m so glad to be able to help! Have a marvellous time recording, many thanks Warren
That's why I hold on to all my equipment. Any equipment that I do sell, I take a few steps back and really wish I didn't sell it. I can think back of some of the things I don't think I should have sold and I sold them anyways cuz somebody was telling me it was a good idea that I get rid of something I'm just not immediately using. I used to have a Moog synthesizer that was made by the RadioShack Corporation, wish I didn't sell that. I had a 50 watt Marshall tube amp I believe it was a jcm 50 that was another big loss. I had a pair of Stax headphones, the best headphones I think I ever owned except they were electrostatic headphones which meant you only could listen to it when you're tied to the stereo, still the best headphones I had. I remember my parents had an upright piano it was Outta tune in the basement and every other week something would be going on with one of those keys. When they moved it to the new place, everything was all tuned up and it looked like it came out of a showroom, that was a panel I grew up with, still wish I had that. When that panel was run down, I don't think there was any other piano on the planet could make the song the Entertainer sound any better. The tough thing is finding a space for everything. Unfortunately, we all can't be Nigel from spinal tap and have this museum for our equipment, right? If you had to rate the level of the equipment that I had like it was laid out, the readings would have to go to 11. But, if you do have room to keep that stuff, hold on to it because you could always pick it up and play it a few more times anytime you feel like it now that you're thinking about it.
Very encouraging video as always :) About the monitor switching: I own an Audient id44 and it supports two monitors with a dedicated monitor switch button. It would be a good choice if one has changing the interface in mind as well. If there are more than 2 monitors or the current interface will stay, I’d definitely recommend the Nero. Who doesn’t love a new piece of gear :)))
Great advice on careers moving forward
Multiple Monitors?? I use the Presonus Monitor Station, I have the older version... Mackie has the "Big Knob"... I can't remember why I went with the Monitor Station... Maybe the 4 headphone preamps? Maybe the talkback mic? Maybe the 3 outputs?? it works well for me in my meager studio... Good luck!
Thank you the second question, that is something I needed to hear because I have left me career as a early childhood educator and I have gone full time. I am nervous and also excited!! PS The Radial MC3 Monitor Control, it helps me switch between my Avantone Mixcubes and Kali LP-6s plus I also check in headphones.
I have a FAQ question;
Warren what are your thoughts on trading services? I ask this because "the budget" does not always suits the ability to hire other musicians. I thought that I could offer my time and services of equal value in return to the "hired gun" when the budget allow money payment.
Do you only use the lav mic for youtube audio? It sounds sooo good.
Yes, that's very kind of you! Eric will be happy to hear it!!
UA apollo (monitor out) to KRK sub (with Bypass pedal) to Switch Witch for various satellites
Great stuff Scott! Thanks ever so much for sharing!
There is something inspiring about using something with history. Hand a singer a mike that was used by one of their hero’s just might bring out the best vocal take ever from that singer. A guitar used by a famous player could inspire your best performance. It’s all magic, but it does work, even if you lied about the history, it could be the magic needed for a great mix. Just my opinion.
i really enjoy your channel i get to go to all the show see the new gear, chance to win, but cant pay the taxes on it lol i dont miss a one! thanks
Hi Warren, great content as always! I'd like to know if you ever mic up the ride cymbal when recording drums or just mostly rely on the overheads? If so, in what type of situation would you consider putting a mic on the ride? Thanks, Tom
Since I only got two set of monitorsI my system is quite simple. I use an old patchbay, right in front of me. I was thinking of the smallest Mackie Control, but if I'll ever get a third pair of monitors, I 'd have tp patch again, so I keep it this way.
Excellent FAQ Friday Warren!
The Audient Nero looks like a "gear" piece of gear! I would also suggest the Presonus Monitor Station V2 and the Radial Engineering MC3 as viable options.
Here's a "heads up" for you: Sometime in January between my birthday and your birthday, I (might) have a surprise for you. 😜
Id love to hear from Joel Hamilton breaking down one of Highly Suspects songs. That band kicks ass and their recordings have such a massive sound! Also Studio G Brooklyn looks like a wet dream
Just entered my details. Thank you sir!
What's really gonna bake your noodle is that some of the more distinguished composers can be identified no matter which orchestra plays their music. Whilst instrument specific personality is important: do not underestimate the importance of developing your _own_ compositional style.
on the subject of unique gear, a few years ago i bought an old dusty DOD compressor at a garage sale for $50. tried it on the typical things u would use a vca compressor on like drums, bass, master buss, never was anything special. A month ago i tried it on the lead vocal of a mix and it blew all my plugins away. I havent used anything else for my lead vocal since
We live in an era of audio production where quality at an introductory level is equal to that, or better, than what was available in 20 years ago at the profession level. This has lead people to squable a bit too much about the 1% differences between great emulations and the real thing or quality low cost microphobes and $5000 mics and this inhibits the ability to just get stuck into it and create great music and foster quality creativity.
There's a good reason why an amazing performance of a girl in her room with a guitar and her voice recorded on an iPhone can go viral even though the audio quality is crap: because performance trumps everything else. $1000 is more than enough to start kicking ass and making amazing songs because we all have gear that is better quality, objectively, than what was available 20-30 years ago.
So pull up the mic, set the gain, and fucking kick ass!
Hello dear and lovely weekend ahead, looking forward to your KALI IN8 Review :-)
Great video as always... one question.... how do you articulate and present so well without an audience? I always seem to need an audience to present well.
Hi Warren, due to some circumstances a drum recording was done at 44.1kHz, and the rest of the tracks were recorded at 48kHz. What would it best, convert the drums to 48kHz or to convert the rest of the tracks to 44.1Khz ?
Hi Warren. Do you ever go out of the box again with recorded tracks or busses to include external analog processing, or do you only apply analog processing at the recording stage? I am curious about the impact of multiple analog/digital conversions. Erwin, The Netherlands.
I would recommend the younger engineers try and listen to as many different genres and decades of music as possible. You can bring a lot more to the table sonically by having a broader pallet to reference. Plus you’ll get more work if you’re good at multiple genres.
monitor station v2 by presonus is my absolute favorite monitor controller!
of course the central station is amazing to. this is just cheaper
Great FAQ friday as always. I was wondering if you are on a budget and can only afford smaller monitors how you would deal with low end bass without a sub. Is there any way of knowing how this would translate to a larger system.
Amazing as Always ! You've Always been an inspiration to me , I hope we can collaborate on something together (My work is on my channel and Spotify ) Your support means a lot
Wow! Thank you ever so much my friend! I really appreciate your kind words!
You're welcome, Thats the truth , Keep it up !
@@GuimGuimTV thanks ever so much!
Question: Hi PLAP, I’m considering getting a sub, because the active speakers I currently use, only have 5 inch drivers, and obviously I want an accurate representation of how much low end is in the mix. But as with so many things, it’s too easy to imagine that somehow this will make a big difference and I get as gear-hungry as the next person when I I’m in that mood. But, are they really necessary, are they any good, what is your experience and can you recommend a few?
I'm doing marvelllously well :)
Music Islife that’s marvellous to hear!!
Produce Like A Pro 😊
How to mix vocal properly, the problem that i facing is harsh vocal transient, how to fix that so that it wont jump out of the mix. I used many compressor with high attack but nothing feels right, what do you do to get pro result?. Waiting for your take on it.
Important to learn to identify and ignore fanboys who fixate on their favorite gear. :) it's more about how you use what you have. When a guy says things like, "it's the only one to use" or "Hands down the best..."... Maybe look in to his actual accomplishments. I've seen guys do some pretty amazing things with some pretty run of the mill gear.
Warren you gotta get Ace on for a rig rundown on those solo albums \m/
Thats an amazing idea!