Signal Flow: it all boils down to this
There’s one thing that separates veteran producers and engineers from newcomers, and that thing is understanding signal flow.
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Hipper Suspended Chords
Here’s a C suspended chord, but let’s see if we can’t get you playing some hipper ones, like a D minor over a C or a D minor 7 over a C.
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Mic Polar Patterns
Today we’re going to look at microphone polar patterns.
II-V one finger resolution
One simple way to approach a V chord when you’re looking at a 2-5-1 progression is to think of it like a suspended chord.
Sawtooth
Today we’re gonna build something.
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Mixing In Headphones
Drones
Stop Putting a Compressor on Every Track
A compressor can add dynamics, reduce them, reshape attack, or extend sustain. Those are different jobs. Use one with intention, not by default.
Identify the Problem Before Reaching for Compression
If you can't name the problem compression is solving, you won't recognize when it's working. Start with the symptom, not the plugin.
Mic an Instrument From Behind
Mic'ing an instrument from behind softens the attack and captures a rounder tone. Works on upright piano, cymbals, violin, and more.
If Your EQ Curve Looks Like a Mountain Range
Radical EQ curves with steep peaks and cuts usually signal a problem upstream. Use broad strokes first, surgical moves only when needed.
Why an Fdim7 Has a Cb and an Ebb
An Fdim7 chord spells F Ab Cb Ebb, not F Ab B D. The enharmonic spelling preserves the stacked-thirds structure that defines how chords work.
