With the daily bombardment of new information in the computer age, it’s hard not to be excited going into a recording session. There are so many tweaks to make to your process or even whole new techniques to try. Maybe you’re excited about trying some new mixing techniques. That’s all great, but don’t get ahead of yourself. Remember the scientific method from school; don’t make so many changes to your process at once that you don’t know what had good or bad effects on your final product. Stay focused, trying one or two things at a time.
For more ideas, read the full article here: http://therecordingrevolution.com/2012/12/28/the-temptation-to-try-every-technique/
Techno Drum Tools Sample Pack By Samplephonics
Available in Rex2, Apple Loop, and 24-Bit WAV formats, this set of 135 techno drum loops is a great tool to get started with production. These samples show influence from classics including Dave Clarke, Ben Klock, and Umek. Samplephonics also still has a 50% Christmas sale, so even if techno drums aren’t your gig, take a look at their other samples. You won’t be disappointed.
You can get more information here: http://rekkerd.org/samplephonics-releases-techno-drum-tools/
Counterintuitive Mixing Techniques Used By Professionals
Simple solutions to simple problems are great, but sometimes simple solutions create additional problems. Instead of boosting the low end to bring out the bass guitar, try adding more to the mid-range. This will draw attention to the instrument and make it easier for the listener’s brain to process the sound. There are other more technical tips, like using harmonic distortion to make something sound more clear.
You can read more about professional techniques that might make your head turn here: http://theproaudiofiles.com/7-obscure-mixing-techniques/
Tips For Improving Your Band Website
First impressions are hard to change. Your website might be great as-is, but Bandzoogle has put out a free eBook with 12 tips to improve your band’s site. It starts with what seems pretty obvious (get rid of auto-play music), but includes tips for some seemingly minor details that overall can help make a great website. The eBook is a quick read, and free is hard to argue with.
You can read more about the free Banzoogle eBook here: http://www.hypebot.com/hypebot/2012/12/free-ebook-quick-fix-12-ways-to-instantly-improve-your-band-website.html
Orchestral Strings One From Sound Magic Released
Instead of trying to find 32 professional musicians, why not give Orchestral Strings One a try? This software puts the sound of 14 violins, 10 violas, 8 cellos, and 6 double basses at your fingertips. The modeling technology used by Sound Magic in this software really helps the string ensemble come to life. The overall flow of sound that is so vital to a lifelike string sound is done very well, instead of the single-note sound of some sampling software. The hardware requirements are mild, and it offers Mac and Windows 64-bit support. Give it a try!
Read more about this software here: http://rekkerd.org/sound-magic-releases-orchestral-strings-one-vst-for-mac-concert-strings-preset/