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Why do some mixes, even with top plugins and techniques, still sound off? The answer might lie in a step you’re overlooking: the static mix.

In this episode of Inside The Mix, Marc Matthews talks with mix engineer Nate Kelmes to explore: What is a static mix in audio mixing? And why is a static mix important before adding effects? Nate explains how balancing levels and panning, before any processing, can account for 70–80% of a great mix. “If the plugins disappear, the song should still work,” he says.

You’ll learn how long to spend on a static mix (hint: 2–3 hours is a sweet spot), what the benefits of starting with a static mix are, and how a static mix improves overall mix quality by building emotion and clarity from the start. Nate also shares how a strong static mix can reduce the need for heavy processing later, making your workflow faster and more intentional.

From native DAW tools to vocal automation and top-down mixing, this episode is packed with actionable insights for producers at any level. If you want more cohesive, impactful mixes, this is where it starts.

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Starting music production at home? This episode of Inside The Mix is your step-by-step guide to building the best home studio setup for beginner music producers. Marc Matthews and Tim Benson unpack exactly what gear you need to produce music at home, without breaking the bank.

They walk through a basic home studio equipment list for new producers, including affordable equipment for starting a home recording studio—from entry-level DAWs for home music production like Logic Pro and Cubase, to beginner audio interfaces for music production such as those from Focusrite and Behringer.

You’ll also hear about the best headphones for home studio recording, how to source quality gear secondhand, and whether or not you really need an audio interface for home recording. This episode covers the essential gear to start making music at home, while emphasising the importance of building skill over collecting expensive tools.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by gear options and just want to get started, this episode delivers the practical advice, gear recommendations, and mindset shift every beginner needs. It’s not about having everything—it’s about knowing how to use what you’ve got.

► ► ► Links mentioned in this episode ► ► ►

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Listen to Liquid Blue

Listen to Half-Life

Audio Technica ATH-M50x

Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)

SSL 2+ MKII

NI Komplete Audio 1 / Audio 2

Apollo Interfaces

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

Behringer Audio Interfaces

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► ► ► Ways to connect with Marc ► ► ►

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE tips

Grab exclusive access to BONUS content

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► ► ► Follow Marc's Socials ► ► ►

Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening!!

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Having trouble getting your build-ups and drops to land with real impact? In this episode of Inside The Mix, host Marc Matthews reveals how he tackled that exact issue in his latest single, “Half-Life”, using a simple but powerful technique—EQ automation.

Marc walks listeners through when to use EQ automation instead of static EQ, explaining how dynamic frequency changes can bring more contrast and tension to a mix. He shares how EQ automation can enhance your mix by creating energy shifts that static processing just can't achieve.

You’ll hear how Marc applied a high-pass filter from 250Hz to 2kHz on both kick and bass during the build, dramatically increasing impact when those frequencies return at the drop. He outlines best practices for automating EQ in a DAW and highlights creative uses of EQ automation in sound design—from subtle movement to full-on transitions.

Whether you're producing electronic, pop, or cinematic tracks, this episode offers a practical technique you can apply immediately. Marc also explains how keeping a playlist of reference tracks is key to overcoming creative blocks. Don’t forget to check the description for a free discovery call where Marc can help elevate your mix, workflow, and overall sound.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Half-Life

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE tips

Grab exclusive access to BONUS content

Book your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call

Follow Marc's Socials:

Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening!!