Send me a message

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.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Follow Nate Kelmes

Listen to the Sound Discussion Podcast

Listen to Microphones and Recording Audio with Mike Senior

Listen to Music, the Industry and Everything Else with Warren Huart

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE weekly 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!!

Send me a message

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 ► ► ►

Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky person will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

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

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!!

Send me a message

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!!

Send me a message

Capturing great vocal takes starts long before hitting record. In this episode, vocal coach and recording expert Rich Bozic shares how to record professional vocals in a home studio, with practical tips that work whether you’re using high-end gear or a modest setup.

We cover how to prepare a singer for a vocal session, from effective pre-session communication to creating a stress-free environment. Rich also explains how to warm up your voice before recording, sharing warm-up routines that improve tone, prevent fatigue, and help artists deliver their best performances.

If you’ve ever asked, “What are common mistakes to avoid when recording vocals?”, this episode delivers. Rich highlights issues like ignoring vocal fatigue, poor headphone mixes, and misreading body language—mistakes that sabotage sessions before you realise it. You’ll also learn how to get studio-quality vocals on a budget, with guidance on microphone choice, headphone monitoring, and remote recording setups.

Whether you produce your vocals or work with singers, this conversation will sharpen your skills, improve session outcomes, and help you capture confident, pro-level performances—no matter your studio size or budget.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Follow Face Your Ears

Follow RJB Music Production

Follow Bozic Voice Studio

Listen to #191 (ft. Justin Hochella)

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Book your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the free tips

Grab exclusive access to premium content

Follow Marc's Socials:
Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering

Thanks for listening!!

Send me a message

Acclaimed mastering engineer Mike Marsh demystifies the final stage of music production in this insightful episode. With a career spanning over three decades, working with artists like Björk, The Chemical Brothers, and Depeche Mode, Mike offers unparalleled expertise on what music mastering is and why it's important.

He addresses the common misconception of the "fix it in mastering" mindset, explaining that mastering cannot correct issues that should have been resolved during mixing. This highlights the critical difference between mixing and mastering in music.

Mike shares practical music mastering tips for independent artists, emphasising the importance of understanding your listening environment over relying solely on expensive equipment. He notes that some of the best mixes he's received came from modest home studios, underscoring that quality results are achievable without high-end gear.

The discussion also covers common mastering mistakes to avoid, such as over-compression and neglecting proper monitoring. Mike weighs in on the debate: Do you need a mastering engineer or can you DIY? He suggests that while self-mastering is possible, a professional's fresh perspective often enhances the final product.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting, this episode provides valuable insights to elevate your music's final polish.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Half-Life

Follow Mike Marsh

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE weekly 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!!

Send me a message

How do you market yourself effectively as an independent music producer, especially when working across multiple genres? In this episode, Marc Matthews and Tim Benson (Aisle9) unpack this challenge with real-world advice and music promotion tips for independent producers looking to stand out.

They break down “The Three C’s” framework—Collaboration, Community, and Consistency—as the cornerstone of how music producers can build a fanbase without burning out or blending in. Instead of trying to dominate every genre or every platform, they emphasise niche focus, strategic partnerships, and audience-first content.

Want to know how building an audience for your music production can be easier with less content? Marc shares how narrowing his social presence helped grow his podcast faster by creating more meaningful work. This episode also explores effective branding for music producers through personal storytelling, local flavour (yes, there’s a West Country cider and ice cream tale), and actionable marketing moves you can implement today.

Whether you're an emerging talent or refining your game, this is a must-listen for independent producers ready to grow without losing creative identity.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky person will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

Listen to Lost and Found

Listen to Liquid Blue

Listen to Half-Life

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE weekly 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!!

Send me a message

Are you underusing the tools you already own in Logic Pro? In this episode of Inside the Mix, Marc Matthews is joined by Justin Hochella, producer and co-host of Face Your Ears, to uncover Logic Pro’s native power that most producers overlook. We answer the questions every independent artist should be asking: What are the essential Logic Pro keyboard shortcuts for beginners? What are the best shortcuts for speeding up workflow in Logic Pro? How do I use Logic Pro shortcuts for automation and MIDI editing?

From game-changing tips like the Z and V keys to hidden sound isolation plugins, we dive deep into Logic’s workflow-enhancing features. Justin also shares how built-in tools like Studio Piano and Sculpture rival paid plugins—offering pro-quality sound without extra cost. Wondering how to use built-in Logic Pro plugins effectively or which plugins every beginner should explore? This episode is your guide.

Plus, learn how to unlock Logic’s 39,000+ Apple Loops and sound packs—packed with vintage drum machines and high-end textures hiding in plain sight.

If you’re producing in Logic, this is your shortcut to working faster and smarter—with the tools you already have.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Follow Face Your Ears

Follow RJB Music Production

Follow Man Made Random

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE weekly 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!!

Send me a message

Ever wondered how the pros achieve those perfectly balanced mixes and immersive effects? Marc Matthews and Tim Benson (Aisle9) explain the difference between pre-fader and post-fader sends, the key to balanced mixes and immersive effects. Many overlook this fundamental signal flow, yet mastering it is the secret to professional sound.

Discover when to use pre-fader sends (ideal for independent monitor mixes) and when to use post-fader sends (perfect for lush reverb and delay - learn how to use post-fader sends for reverb and delay!). Understand how pre-fader sends work (signal before the fader) and how post-fader sends work (proportional to the fader).

Explore why you'd use a pre-fader send for effects and the advantages of using pre-fader sends (consistent monitor levels, unique effects) and post-fader sends (natural effect balances). We'll also touch on how pre/post-fader sends affect aux tracks/returns and when to use pre-fader sends for parallel processing. Join Marc and Tim as they demonstrate that there are no rigid rules, only a universe of creative possibilities waiting to be unlocked.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky question will win a Starbucks voucher each month!

Support the show

Ways to connect with Marc:

Radio-ready mixes start here - get the FREE weekly 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!!