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.

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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.

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.

Velocity Layers in Reason’s NN-XT Sampler

By grasping the concept of velocity layers in a sampler you will be able to better use and more easily create your own dynamic and exciting sampler patches.

Best Way to Learn Music Production: Copy a Song

There’s a saying, “Copying is the highest form of flattery.” Copying is also one of the best ways to hone your production skills.

How to Set Up Multiple Studio Monitors

Do you think you’re set with one pair of professional studio monitors? If so, think again.