Favorite Analog Gear: Top 5 Pieces of Gear I Can’t Live Without

As an online sound mixer who also offers music mastering services, I’m no stranger to websites and forums reviewing and discussing analog gear from old to new. Ever since buying my first DBX 160X compressor in 2014, I’ve been on an endless journey to find the pieces that inch me closer to sonic glory. Buying and selling, sometimes trying something out for a day, sometimes a few months. In the last 10 years I’ve found a number of keepers, and a smaller number of pieces I will never say goodbye to. Here is my top 5 pieces of gear I can’t live without:

1. Louder Than Liftoff Silver Bullet MKII: The Silver Bullet is a “tone amp” with an internal routing matrix that allows processing for mixing and tracking without touching your patchbay. It also includes two high quality preamps, a three-band Baxandall EQ, a “vintage” low pass filter and a feature called Aspect Ratio that enhances the stereo width, height and clarity of your mix. The two tone circuits are modeled after the circuit topologies of API and Neve consoles and can be used individually or in sequence. My Silver Bullet lives on my mix bus for every song I work on. LTL also just released a plugin version, so if you can’t spring for the physical unit go check out the plugin!

2. Telefunken TF-51: I’ve owned mics by Neumann, Mojave, Lewitt, Rode, Shure and Blue, and worked extensively with others from AKG, Pearlman, and Manley. none of the mics I’ve owned or worked with have given me more bang for my buck than the TF-51. I almost exclusively use it on vocals, with the occasional acoustic guitar recording thrown in, so this is a vocal-focused opinion, but the combination it brings of warmth, smooth brightness and detail is incredible.

3. WesAudio _Rhea: The Rhea is a stereo vari-mu compressor with digital recall in a 500 series unit. Bringing its tubes and Carnhill transformers to anything that passes through it, there is a warmth and fatness it effortlessly imparts. On top of that, it has a mix knob for parallel compression and THD (total harmonic distortion) function that brings extra sizzle and excitement if desired. I love this unit on everything from guitars to synths to vocals, and the digital recall makes it incredibly user friendly. No more writing down your setting to get that analog juice!

4. Audioscape Golden58 Stereo Tube Preamplifier: I’ll keep it simple, the Golden58 blew all other preamps I have owned out of the water. Everything you could want out of that “tube sound” come through in spades with this piece. The six tubes make anything put through it sound massive, smooth and gooey warm. It also has line inputs to run anything from you DAW through it, adding to its value. And just look at this thing… It’s just gorgeous.

5. Antelope Audio Orion 32+: Rounding out my top 5 is my audio interface. While not the sexiest pick, I couldn’t use all of my gear so seemlessly and transpatently without the Orion 32+. With 32 channels of I/O, this is what allows me to use all of the analog gear I have in my workflow without having to touch my patchbay. I’ve owned interfaces from Avid, Universal Audio and Apogee, but none of them touch the crystal clean conversion I get from the folks at Antelope.

So there you have it. Whether it’s getting the perfect vocal, adding vibe and weight or the centerpiece that lets everything talk to each other, all of these tools helps me produce and mix songs at the highest possible level. I highly suggest budding producers, mixing engineers and mastering engineers check out these incredible pieces of analog equipment.

Professional Vocals: Top 10 Plugins for Making Your Vocalist Sound Famous

Every producer and mixing engineer wants to send the song they poured their blood, sweat and tears into back to the artists and have them lose their mind with how amazing their vocal sounds. While no plugin can turn an iPhone recording into studio perfection, there are some incredible plugins that can help get you closer to that radio sound. Here are my top 10 plugins for audio mixing vocals:

1. Oeksound Soothe 2: Soothe 2 is a dynamic resonance suppressor that intelligently tames harsh frequencies in vocals. It's an invaluable tool for achieving a smooth and polished vocal sound, particularly in dynamic performances. This is the closest thing to a magician on the list.

2. Antares Auto-Tune: No list of vocal plugins is complete without the industry-standard pitch correction tool, Auto-Tune by Antares. Loved by professionals worldwide, it provides subtle pitch correction or creative pitch manipulation, depending on the artistic intent. Auto-Tune also adds a desirable and familiar sheen to the vocal.

3. CLA Vocals by Waves: Crafted in collaboration with renowned mixer Chris Lord-Alge, CLA Vocals is a powerhouse that streamlines vocal processing. It combines compression, EQ, and reverb in a single interface, allowing users to quickly achieve that signature professional sheen in their vocal mixes. While I don’t use all of its features on every lead vocal, I always add a little bit of parallel compression with “spank.”

4. UAD LA-2A Compressor: Emulating the iconic Teletronix LA-2A, this UAD plugin is a go-to for smooth and transparent vocal compression. Its classic tube design imparts a vintage warmth that adds character to vocal performances.

5. FabFilter Pro-MB: Pro-MB is a dynamic multiband processor that excels in transparently shaping the dynamics of vocals. With its intuitive interface and precise control over multiple frequency bands, it allows for surgical compression, expansion, and upward/downward compression tailored to each segment of the vocal spectrum. This one has a bit of a learning curve, but once mastered it becomes indispensable.

6. Valhalla VintageVerb: VintageVerb by ValhallaDSP is renowned for its lush and authentic-sounding reverb algorithms. Tailored for vocals, it adds a rich sense of space and ambiance, offering various vintage reverb modes to enhance the depth and character of vocal performances.

7. Waves H-Delay: Waves H-Delay is a versatile delay plugin that brings character and depth to vocal tracks. With customizable modulation and various delay modes, it's a go-to choice for adding creative echoes, widening vocals, and achieving a professional sense of space.

8. Soundtoys EchoBoy: EchoBoy is a favorite among producers for its creative delay capabilities. From classic tape echoes to modern ambient textures, EchoBoy adds character and dimension to vocals. Its intuitive interface allows for easy tweaking, making it an essential tool for professional vocal processing.

9. Kush Audio Clariphonic: The Clariphonic Parallel EQ is a unique addition for adding brilliance and air to vocals. Focused on the high-frequency range, Clariphonic imparts a natural and euphonic sheen to vocals without introducing harshness. Its parallel processing approach allows for enhancing the top end while preserving the original vocal character.

10. Eiosis Deesser: Targeting sibilance and harsh frequencies in vocals, Eiosis Deesser is a specialized tool for smooth and effective de-essing. Its advanced algorithms allow for precise control over problematic elements in vocal recordings, ensuring a polished and professional result.

These plugins collectively form an arsenal for producers and mixing engineers, elevating vocal recordings to a professional standard. Whether it's pitch correction, compression, or effects, these tools empower creators to mix songs to a pro-level sonic result.

Beats on Steroids: Unleashing the Power of Parallel Compression on Drums

In the rhythmic realm of music production, parallel compression on drums emerges as a secret weapon, ushering beats into true speaker-rattling territory. This technique, often hailed as the magic touch by seasoned producers and mixing engineers, brings a dynamic energy to drum tracks that can't be achieved through conventional methods.

Parallel compression involves blending a heavily compressed version of the drum signal with the original, untouched signal. The result is a marriage of the compressed punch and the natural nuances of the drums, creating a sound that is both impactful and detailed.

The beauty of parallel compression lies in its ability to enhance the transient impact and sustain of drum hits. By compressing the parallel signal aggressively, the quieter details and subtle nuances in the drum performance are brought to the forefront, giving the drums a larger-than-life presence in the mix.

This technique is especially effective on genres that demand a robust drum presence, such as rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. It allows producers to strike the perfect balance between maintaining the natural feel of the drums while ensuring they cut through the mix with intensity.

Personally, I have 7 different compressors in my parallel drum compression template. Everything from UA’s 1176s, LA2A, and DBX160 to Kush Audio’s AR-1, Silika, and Novatron. They have names like pop tiny, punch tight, body and thud. I play around with different blends of these on each song, eventually finding the right balance.

Whether you're sculpting thunderous kicks or accentuating the snap of a snare, parallel compression is the cheat code that elevates your drum tracks to new sonic heights.

In the Headphones We Trust: Mastering Songs with Precision

Mastering songs in headphones has emerged as a game-changer in the world of audio mastering, offering a unique perspective that traditional studio monitors may not provide. Renowned mastering engineers Dave McNair and Glenn Schick shed light on the benefits of this approach, emphasizing the precision and intimacy it brings to the mastering process. These audio alchemists swear by the magic of headphones, where the clarity is so crisp, it's like eavesdropping on a whispering unicorn.

Dave McNair (Bob Dylan, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen) attests to the effectiveness of headphone mastering: "Headphones are much less affected by room anomalies. It's a more focused and personal experience." This focused environment allows mastering engineers to delve into the intricacies of audio mastering without the interference of room acoustics.

Glenn Schick (Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, J. Cole) echoes this sentiment: "In a perfect world, I would like to have both monitors and headphones. However, I find that when I master a track on headphones, I get a sense of the mix's balance and detail that can be more challenging to perceive in a room."

For song mastering services, the use of headphones provides mastering engineers with an intimate listening experience, enabling them to fine-tune the sonic details with surgical precision. The isolation offered by headphones allows for an intense focus on nuances like transient details and spatial aspects that may be challenging to discern in a traditional studio setup.

The benefits of mastering songs in headphones, as championed by veterans like McNair and Schick, lie in the focused and personal perspective it offers. This approach enhances the precision and attention to detail in audio mastering, making it an invaluable tool for mastering engineers striving for sonic excellence in the evolving landscape of music production.

Harmony in the Mix: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Mixing Engineer

Embarking on a musical journey is much like curating a masterpiece, and the choice of a mixing engineer plays a pivotal role in transforming raw tracks into sonic art. The vast pool of mixing engineers, including the online sound mixer brigade, can be overwhelming, but fear not – finding the perfect match for your project is an art in itself.

First, you must understand the unique sonic fingerprint your project demands. Different mixing engineers specialize in diverse genres and styles, so do your homework. If you're aiming for a lush orchestral sound, an engineer with expertise in cinematic mixes might be your go-to virtuoso.

Next, explore the engineer's portfolio. A seasoned mixing engineer will have a varied body of work, showcasing versatility and technical prowess. Listen to their previous projects and assess if their sonic palette aligns with your artistic vision.

Communication is key in the realm of audio mixing. The best mixing engineers not only understand the technical intricacies but also possess the ability to interpret your creative vision. Engage in a conversation, share your aspirations for the project, and gauge their enthusiasm and understanding.

Of course, budget is going to play a crucial role. You mostly get what you pay for. Finding the sweet spot of an engineer who is affordable, but not so affordable that they’ll butcher your song, is important.

In the symphony of audio mixing, the right engineer is your conductor, guiding the elements to harmonious heights. Take the time to select a mixing engineer whose expertise, style, and passion resonate with your musical vision, ensuring that the collaborative journey enhances the sonic narrative of your project.

Fiverr Fame: The Deceptive Allure of Big-Name Credits in Mixing Engineers

In the quest for affordable mixing engineers, the allure of big-name credits on Fiverr may seem like hitting the jackpot. However, as the saying goes, "you get what you pay for." In the world of audio mixing, it's no exception. While the promise of working with someone who's rubbed sonic shoulders with industry giants may be tempting, the reality often falls short.

Many Fiverr mixing engineers, despite their impressive credits, operate under the constraints of the platform's quick turnaround demands. Your song, with dreams of bespoke treatment, might end up hastily thrown into a one-size-fits-all template, emerging on the other side as a cookie-cutter version of itself. The rapid assembly line of mixing songs on Fiverr can compromise the intricacies that make each track unique.

Behind the curtain of big-name credits often lies the revelation that your project is not receiving the personal touch you envisioned. These engineers may not be the ones doing the hands-on work, as songs are handed off to assistants in a conveyor belt-like process. The result can be a generic mix that lacks the depth and nuance expected from someone with illustrious credits.

In the realm of online sound mixers, the Fiverr shortcut may leave your music sounding like a distant echo of its potential. The lesson here is clear – investing in audio mixing is an investment in the soul of your music, and shortcuts often lead to a diluted sonic identity. While big-name credits can add a shiny veneer, it's crucial to prioritize a mix that resonates with your unique sound over a quick brush with fame.

Mixing on a Budget: Top 5 Free Plugins for Aspiring Mixing Engineers and Producers

For budding mixing engineers and online sound mixers exploring the world of audio mixing without breaking the bank, free plugins can be the magic wand that transforms your mixes. Here are my top five free plugins, essential for anyone aiming to mix songs on a budget.

1. Spitfire LABS: This orchestral treasure trove is a gift to all music enthusiasts. It offers an array of high-quality virtual instruments, providing an orchestral palette to add depth and richness to your mixes. For mixing engineers and producers short on cash, LABS is a game-changer.

2. TAL-Chorus-LX: Recreating the classic chorus effect, TAL-Chorus-LX is a free gem that imparts a rich, modulated texture to your tracks. Whether you're working on vocals, guitars, or synths, this chorus plugin is a simple yet effective tool for adding depth and character to your mix.

3. OTT by Xfer Records: Known for its multiband compression prowess, OTT is a must-have for those diving into the intricacies of audio mixing. Its intuitive interface and powerful compression capabilities make it a go-to for adding excitement to elements of a mix.

4. A1 Trigger Gate: For those exploring the electronic space of music, A1 Trigger Gate is a gem. This versatile rhythmic gate plugin is perfect for crafting intricate patterns and enhancing the dynamic movement of your tracks, making it an invaluable addition for online sound mixers delving into diverse genres.

5. Voxengo SPAN: A spectrum analyzer is a vital tool for understanding the frequency distribution in your mixes. Voxengo SPAN, with its comprehensive visual representation, assists mixing engineers in identifying potential issues and fine-tuning the balance of elements in their mix, making it an indispensable asset for both novices and professionals.

Masterful Transitions: The Art and Science of Album Mastering

In the labyrinth of music production, album mastering emerges as the final alchemical touch, transforming a collection of tracks into a cohesive sonic journey. The nuances of this art form, performed by mastering engineers, are as intricate as weaving a tapestry of melodies and harmonies that seamlessly flow from one track to the next.

In the realm of online audio mastering services, the intricacies of album mastering become a dance between technology and artistic intuition. A music mastering service must not only wield cutting-edge tools for precise adjustments, but also possess the finesse to curate a sonic journey that resonates with the listener.

The album mastering process involves more than just ensuring consistent levels and frequencies; it delves into the emotional resonance of the entire collection. Each track is a puzzle piece, and mastering engineers meticulously piece together the sonic mosaic, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

As the final gatekeepers of sonic quality, mastering engineers in the realm of album mastering play a pivotal role in shaping the overall impact of an artist's body of work. Their expertise allows for a seamless blend of art and technology, ensuring that each note, each pause, and each crescendo contributes to the symphony of the entire album. The accessibility of online audio mastering has opened the door for independent artists everywhere, if they choose mastering engineers wisely, to experience their collection of songs coming together as a cohesive emotional journey.

In conclusion, album mastering is a delicate dance where technical precision meets artistic vision. Mastering engineers, especially in the realm of online audio mastering services, act as the custodians of sonic integrity, elevating albums from a collection of songs to a captivating journey for the ears.

Mastering Excellence: Top 5 Mastering Plugins

In the realm of audio mastering services, the quest for the perfect plugins is like a master chef looking for the perfect in. Mastering engineers, both seasoned and budding, are always on the lookout for tools that elevate their sonic ceiling. Here are my top 5 mastering plugins:

1. Soothe 2 by oeksound: Soothe 2 is a dynamic resonance suppressor that has become a go-to for mastering engineers dealing with problematic frequencies. Its advanced algorithm intelligently tames harshness and resonances, ensuring a smoother and more controlled final mix.

2. FabFilter Pro-L 2: Renowned for its transparent and versatile limiting capabilities, Pro-L 2 is a powerhouse in the mastering world. Its intelligent algorithms adapt to the audio content, providing precise control over peak levels while maintaining the integrity of the mix.

3. FabFilter Pro-Q 3: A true gem in the mastering realm, Pro-Q 3 is a dynamic equalizer that boasts unparalleled precision and versatility. Its intuitive interface allows mastering engineers to sculpt the frequency spectrum with surgical precision, making it an indispensable tool for shaping the tonal landscape of any track.

4. Sonnox Oxford Inflator: The Inflator, often described as a secret weapon, adds a touch of magic to the mastering process. Offering harmonic enhancement without compromising dynamic range, it breathes life into mixes, making it a favored tool among mastering engineers seeking that elusive sonic sparkle.

5. Kush Audio Q.632: Q.632 is a modestly updated repackage of Magpha EQ, an obscure and defunct plugin whose unusual phase-modeled filters earned it a reputation for smoothness and fidelity that rival what comes out of $9,000 analog mastering EQ’s. If you want a dead simple, minimalist EQ that does zero damage to any part of your sound no matter what you do with it, Q.632 is the one to get.

Post-pandemic, online song mastering has become the norm for artists, producer, and mixing engineers looking to have their songs polished. These top-tier plugins are the secret ingredients that allow quality mastering engineers to make the songs they touch shine brightly.

Striking a Balance: The Pitfalls of In-The-Box Audio Mastering

In the age of technology, the accessibility of online song mastering services has revolutionized the music industry, offering convenience but often at the cost of sonic individuality. Digital audio mastering, while efficient, has been criticized for its potential to produce results that are perceived as sterile and homogenous.

Many mastering engineers, vital architects in the final stages of music production, argue that the precision of digital processes can inadvertently strip away the unique characteristics that make each track special. The clinical nature of digital mastering tools, often reliant on algorithms and presets, may result in a standardized sound that lacks the organic warmth and nuance inherent in analog processes. It's like asking a robot to paint a masterpiece; precision, sure, but where's the soul?

Similar to the mixing landscape, engineers at the top and bottom of the food chain are the ones gravitating towards digital-only mastering. The bottom for affordability; the top for efficiency. Quality mastering engineers who are not attempting to break any speed records, often emphasize the need for more optionality in their approach. At times, barely touching the material with some precise in-the-box tools are all that is called for. However, more often than not a song can be brought to its highest form by using some analog tools that impart their own character.

While digital audio mastering undeniably offers efficiency, the artistry of the mastering process can be compromised for the sake of efficiency. It's essential to strike a balance between the convenience and precision of plugins and the warmth and character of outboard gear. By doing so, artists can ensure that their music retains its unique identity, steering clear of the pitfalls of a potentially sterile and homogenous in-the-box mastering landscape.

Mixing Songs with Analog Gear: Why I Mix With a Hybrid Setup

In the realm of audio mixing, the debate between using outboard analog gear and mixing “in the box” has been ongoing, but the undeniable allure of analog gear persists. Mixing engineers worldwide champion the use of analog equipment for its unique ability to impart warmth, depth, and character to music. Unlike the precise yet sometimes clinical nature of digital mixing, analog imparts a rich and organic texture to the sound, bringing out nuances that might be overlooked in the digital domain.

In a world where bits and bytes often steal the spotlight, the analog resurgence is like the cool kid at the party who brings the vinyl. Using analog gear in the mixing process isn't just a retro retreat, it's a rebellious rendezvous with sonic flair. Picture this: your music, cozying up to vintage compressors and tape machines, creating a symphony of harmonically rich vibes. It's like giving your tunes a spa day. Going beyond the digital hustle, into the hands of tactile gurus wielding knobs and faders like sonic wizards.

A hybrid digital-and-analog audio mixing setup offers the best of both worlds. This fusion allows engineers to leverage cutting-edge technology for intricate edits while infusing the richness of analog components. In a hybrid setup, digital tools excel in precise tasks like automation and recall, ensuring consistency across projects. Meanwhile, analog components, such as tube equalizers and compressors, contribute a unique sonic signature that adds depth and texture. This blend provides a nuanced palette for audio engineers, empowering them to sculpt sound with unparalleled creativity.

Many inexperienced engineers can’t afford expensive gear and big name mixers are looking to minimize the time it takes to complete a mix. It’s the engineers in between those two that may actually yield the best results. Having the budget for outboard pieces that do things that plugins can’t while also having the time and care to treat each mix with the respect it deserves is the sweet spot for getting the most value out of a mixing fee for an artist.

Mixing engineers who swear by analog gear often highlight the tangible, hands-on experience it provides. The tactile nature of physically manipulating knobs and faders on analog consoles allows for a more intuitive and immediate connection with the music. This hands-on approach fosters a creative environment where spontaneous decisions can shape the final sonic landscape.

Ultimately, the marriage of digital efficiency and analog warmth in a hybrid setup stands as the pinnacle of audio mixing, offering a harmonious balance between innovation and tradition.

The Human Touch in Audio Mastering: Why Mastering Engineers Still Beat AI

In the ever-evolving landscape of music production, the role of mastering engineers remains indispensable. While AI has made remarkable strides in various fields, the nuances of audio mastering require the human touch to understand how to bring each song to its sonic ideal. These audio maestros don't just play with buttons; they dance with frequencies, spin in the realms of emotional nuances, and jive with the artist's vision. Unlike AI, who's probably still figuring out what "vibes" mean, mastering engineers have an innate sixth sense for bringing songs to their platonic ideal.

Mastering engineers bring a unique set of skills to the table, blending technical expertise with a finely tuned ear for detail. Unlike AI algorithms, these professionals possess an innate ability to interpret the artist's vision and intention, ensuring the final product aligns seamlessly with their creative vision. The art of mastering involves more than just adjusting levels and frequencies; it requires an understanding of the emotional nuances within the music.

And speaking of adaptability, these wizards of sound are the shape-shifters of the music realm. Each track is like a quirky character, and a human mastering engineer molds their approach accordingly. They're the chameleons of compression and EQ, reading between the musical lines with an intuition that AI can only dream of.

Additionally, the collaborative nature of working with a mastering engineer fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas. Musicians can communicate their preferences, allowing the engineer to implement changes in real-time. This dialogue between artist and engineer often results in a final product that not only meets technical standards but also captures the essence of the music in its purest form.

So while AI has undoubtedly revolutionized various industries, the intricate art of audio mastering remains a domain where the human touch reigns supreme. Mastering engineers bring a blend of technical skill, artistic intuition, and adaptability that elevates the music to new heights, making the collaboration between artist and engineer an indispensable element in the pursuit of sonic perfection.