Sidechain Compression in Pro Tools and Reason

Sidechain compression is a wonderful production trick. Originally, it was used to duck music behind an announcer’s voice on the radio.

Discover

Imaginary Barlines in Musical Notation

Jonathan Feist explains the concept of imaginary barlines in music theory, a notation convention designed to help the music reader know what’s syncopated.

When to Hire a Mastering Engineer

A common question I hear from students is, “Do I need to hire a mastering engineer?” The answer is, it really depends; it depends on what you’re trying to accomplish.

Drum Programming

Drum Programming in Your DAW

I always sequence my drum beats in real-time, using a MIDI controller, such as my keyboard or drum pads.

Propellerhead’s ReCycle: Making REX Loops

As promised, I’ve finally put together a comprehensive video about using Propellerhead’s ReCycle software and how to create your own REX loops.

Mixing Tips: How to Know When to Solo

Every term, without fail, I get a few assignments handed in with all of a mixer’s solo buttons enabled.

Signature Guitar Tone and Picking

Let’s talk about attack devices, or ways to get a string moving. I know it sounds too simple to be true, but this one post might be the difference between you and your signature sound!

Guitar Notation Basics

Guitarists might read three different types of notation. Each has its strengths.

Making beats in Pro Tools requires good headphones.

How to Change a Loop’s Tempo in Pro Tools

“How do I tempo change a loop in Pro Tools?” This is a common question and the answer is, “There are lots of ways.”

A musician playing a keyboard.

Improve Your Sampler Chops

Berklee Online music production instructor Erik Hawkins explains how to improve your sampler skills, with advice from his “Producing Music with Reason” course.