Secret Sonics

#215 - Future-Proofing Your Music Business: Essential Strategies for Sustainable Success

Ben and Carl discuss key strategies for creating a sustainable and future-proof music production business. They explore topics like consistent lead generation, maintaining client relationships, adapting to industry trends, and differentiating yourself in a crowded market. Topics we discuss: The power of consistent lead generation, even during busy periods How to nurture client relationships through simple, genuine check-ins Strategies for staying informed on industry trends without gettin...

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#214 - Four Years of Growth: Reflections on Our Professional Journeys

Ben and Carl discuss their professional evolution since their first podcast encounter four years ago. They explore significant changes in equipment, mindset, and industry practices that have shaped their careers in music production and mixing. Topics we discuss: How better equipment revealed Ben's bad mixing habits Carl's journey in self-confidence and adaptability Adapting to post-COVID industry changes Crafting a sustainable career in music production The importance of personal connec...

Reissue: #058 with Carl Bahner - Forging a Creative Path in Production

Have a listen to the very first episode of Secret Sonics featuring Carl Bahner! Back in August 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Ben and Carl formed a friendship. We thought it would be fun to revisit this episode and explore Carl's origin story while we take a break to prepare for bringing new guests onto the show. Enjoy! Original Show Notes - https://www.benwallick.com/podcast-episodes/2020/8/9/secret-sonics-058-carl-bahner Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.co...

#213 - How to Mix an Arena-Ready Backing Track

In this episode, Carl shares his recent experience creating a backing track for a high-stakes live event. Discover how mixing for a live venue requires a complete shift in priorities and techniques compared to crafting tracks for streaming platforms. From exaggerating dynamics to strategically reinforcing rhythmic elements, you'll learn about how to empower performers and electrify live audiences. Get ready to expand your mixing toolkit and approach your next project with a whole new perspect...

#212 - How Our Instrumental Backgrounds Shape Our Production & Mixing

In this episode, Ben and Carl discuss how their respective backgrounds as a bassist and a drummer shape their approach to music production and mixing. They delve into the influence of their live performance experiences and traditional training on their production techniques, emphasizing intentionality and minimalism.  Topics we discuss: Intentionality and minimalism Pacing and instrumentation Simplicity in arrangements - adding character, not clutter  The physicality of low end in mixing...

#211 - On-Stage Lessons for Studio Success

In this episode, Ben and Carl discuss the transition from being live performers to working in the studio. They share personal anecdotes and insights into the skills and experiences that have informed their studio work, such as checking egos, understanding tempo, effective communication, conflict resolution, and the importance of arrangement. They also highlight the unique nuances of live versus studio performances and how knowing many songs can expand creative possibilities. Topics we discus...

#210 - Your Opinion Wanted: The State of the Podcast

Join Ben and Carl for a peek behind the podcast curtain as they reflect on the journey of Secret Sonics and explore exciting new directions for the show. In this candid conversation, they share their vision for weaving in fresh perspectives through guest interviews while preserving the magic of their duo dynamic. Discover the thought process behind the show's evolution and learn how you, the listener, can help shape the future of Secret Sonics. Get ready for an insider's look at building a po...

#209 - Building Your Dream Team: How to Collaborate in Music Production

Teamwork really DOES make the dream work. In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into assembling a roster of pros who can take your projects to the next level. From identifying the right specialists for each song to fostering a culture of trust and creative alchemy, you'll learn how to build a team that amplifies your strengths and delivers even better results. Let your ego take a backseat to the joy of synergy in action. Topics we discuss: Why even top producers and engineers outsource ta...

#208 - Overcoming the Curse of Perfectionism

Are you constantly chasing the elusive "perfect" mix or agonizing over every tiny detail in your productions? In this episode, Ben and Carl share their hard-won insights on overcoming perfectionist tendencies that can stifle creativity and slow progress to a crawl. They share practical strategies for breaking free from the perfectionist's curse, trusting your instincts, and embracing the imperfections that make music magic.  Topics we discuss: Why striving for perfection can be the biggest ...

#207 - Tuning In: Wielding the Power of Reference Mixes

Ben and Carl delve into their go-to songs for mix references across various aspects of sound including bottom end, top end, mid-range, depth, stereo field, dynamic range, and transients. They explore a wide range of music from artists like Radiohead, Adele, Daft Punk, and Billie Eilish, to name a few, providing insights into why these tracks serve as the perfect benchmarks for assessing and achieving the desired sound quality in their own mixes.  Topics we discuss: The Art of Selecting Refe...

#207 - Our Go-To Reference Mixes (and Why We Chose Them)

Ben and Carl delve into their go-to songs for mix references across various aspects of sound including bottom end, top end, mid-range, depth, stereo field, dynamic range, and transients. They explore a wide range of music from artists like Radiohead, Adele, Daft Punk, and Billie Eilish, to name a few, providing insights into why these tracks serve as the perfect benchmarks for assessing and achieving the desired sound quality in their own mixes.  Topics we discuss: The Art of Selecting Refe...

#206 - Using Music Theory to Conquer Common Mixing Challenges

Does music theory belong in the mixing engineer's toolbox? In this rapid-fire episode, Ben and Carl explore the surprising ways a solid grasp of music theory can elevate your mixes from amateur to awesome. Discover how to wield the power of harmony, melody, and chord progressions to troubleshoot tricky mix issues, enhance arrangements, and take your productions to the next level! Topics we discuss: The #1 mix element that most often requires music theory intervention How to use your theory...

#205 - Consistency Hacks for Reliably Radio-Ready Mixes

Want to know how to create release-ready mixes with confidence every single time? In this episode, Ben and Carl reveal their approaches for achieving reliable mix consistency no matter the song. Discover the mindset shifts, little-known technical tricks, and proven workflow strategies that will help you nail your mix vision faster, with fewer frustrating detours and do-overs. Get ready to level up your consistency and mix with confidence! Topics we discuss: The simple monitoring move that w...

#204 - Masking Mayhem: How to Tame the Chaos and Clarify Your Mixes

In this week's episode, Ben and Carl unmask the mystery of masking (pun very much intended). They talk about frequency masking, rhythmic masking, transient masking, and more. There are plenty of "aha!" moments that will change the way you approach mixing, so tune in now and elevate your mixes from cluttered to crystal-clear! Topics we discuss: The little-known mixing villain that's sabotaging your mixes (hint: it's not just frequency masking!) How to diagnose and eliminate "rhythmic maskin...

#203 - Embracing Your Inner Weird: Turning Quirks into Career Superpowers

Leaning into your authentic self, flaws and all, can become your greatest asset in building a standout career. In this offbeat episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the quirky traits and tendencies that make them unique as music professionals. Topics we discuss: Why your quirks are more than just personality traits - they shape your artistic identity How to harness your quirky strengths to attract your ideal clients and collaborators Why facing your fears (even the irrational ones) can lea...

#202 - AI in Music: Salvation or Doom for Creatives?

In this thought-provoking episode, Ben and Carl dive headfirst into the complex world of artificial intelligence and its impending impact on the music industry. Discover how AI is already transforming music creation and production, and explore the philosophical quandaries that arise as technology blurs the line between human artistry and machine-generated content. Buckle up for a mind-bending journey that will leave you pondering the very nature of creativity in the digital age. Topics we di...

#201 - Minimalism: How Audio Engineers Can Create Big Results With Less

What if the secret to standout mixes was doing less, not more? In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the art of minimalism in audio engineering. Discover how applying minimalist principles, from streamlined plugin chains to intentional gear choices, can elevate your sound and simplify your workflow. Learn why sometimes the biggest results come from stripping away the excess. Topics we discuss: The surprising power of constraint and how it fuels creativity Why some hits sound massive...

#200 - Mastering: A Mixer's Perspective

In this episode, mixing engineers Ben and Carl dive into the vital yet often misunderstood role of mastering in the music production process. Topics we discuss: The single biggest reason mastering can make or break your mix (it's not what you think) How to harness the power of objectivity to hear your mix with fresh ears The little-known trick for using mastering to diagnose and fix mix problems The surprising truth about what really matters when choosing a mastering engineer Why trying...

#199 - How to Confidently Raise Your Rates

Ready to start earning what you're really worth as an audio professional? In this eye-opening episode, Ben and Carl talk about proven strategies for tactfully raising your rates with both new and existing clients. Discover how to showcase your unique value, frame your pricing in a compelling way, and confidently ask for the rates you deserve. Topics we discuss: Why regularly raising rates is crucial to account for inflation and increasing expenses How to position a rate increase as a loyal...

#198 - Cold Outreach That Doesn’t Feel Icky

In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the often uncomfortable but crucial topic of cold outreach for audio professionals. Carl shares his proven methodology for finding and connecting with potential clients and collaborators in a genuine, non-sleazy way. Learn how to move past the discomfort, build the habit of regular outreach, and transform your career trajectory. Topics we discuss: The key mindset shift that makes outreach effective and non-sleazy How to get over the fear of reje...

#197 - Why the Goal Posts of Success are Always Moving

In this week's episode of Secret Sonics, Ben and Carl explore the evolving nature of career success. Topics we discuss: Early unrealistic dreams transform into sustainable career visions over time Realizing that artistic purpose can fuel and expand your goals as it connects with listeners ⁠Life priorities reshape definitions of success at different stages ⁠Liberation from standardized metrics frees you to determine your own success True meaning is derived from creative growth and the jo...

#196 - Taking Criticism Like a Pro

In this week's episode, Ben and Carl talk about taking criticism as an audio professional. Topics we discuss: Getting constructive vs unhelpful criticism and feedback Building a "circle" of trusted people to give feedback Characteristics to look for in people you ask criticism from Receiving criticism during different stages of production Dealing with well-intended but unhelpful feedback Handling aggressive criticism from clients Developing thick skin and not taking criticism personal...

#195 - How Templates Can Enable (Not Stifle) Creativity

Have a listen as Ben and Carl have an in-depth conversation about using templates for efficient mixing and production workflows. They talk about how they structure their templates by routing tracks, buses, and FX stacks to allow for maximum flexibility when mixing. They discuss setting expectations with clients about initial mixes as well as favorite plugins to include. The hosts also share some hot tips for Logic users and emphasize how templates enable them to work quickly and efficiently. ...

#194 - Don’t Get Suckered By The Sale: What We ACTUALLY Look For When Buying Plugins

Tune in as Ben and Carl talk about what it takes to convince them to buy new plugins - from usefulness to inspiration and everything in between. They discuss the plugins they can’t live without, the plugins that were a total disappointment, and the future of subscription payment models. Topics we discuss: ⁠Prerequisites for buying a new plugin Marketing and sales tactics that might work on us Experiences with some select plugins Thoughts on subscription models Plugins that disappointed ...

#193 - How the Role of the Mixing Engineer is Changing in 2024

Ben and Carl discuss the role of a mixing engineer in 2024. They talk about how the role has changed over the years as well as the importance of communication with artists and producers to bring their vision to life. They also explore the impact of technological changes and how it has impacted the mixing process and made it more efficient. This discussion highlights the evolving nature of the mixing engineer's role and the need for adaptability in the ever-changing music industry. Topics we ...

#192 - Moving Forward: Ben & Carl Chart Their 2024 Game Plan

Get ready for 2024. Ben and Carl kick off their rebooted Secret Sonics podcast - as new co-hosts - by doing a goal-setting session for the new year. Ben shares his plans to realign his audio career, while Carl reveals his strategy to have over 1000 conversations in 2024 (yes, seriously). Money, mindfulness, and family take priority, too as they set a mix of professional and personal goals. With insight into crafting input goals and keeping each other accountable, this first episode will inspi...

Secret Sonics 191 - Matt Huber - The Hyper-Focused Mixing Engineer

Matt Huber is a mix engineer based out of LA, CA, USA! In our conversation Matt and I go deep on the following: His journey from Arkansas to LA (via Nashville) Delegation & scaling Niching down Atmos His approach to mixing Getting bright (but not harsh) vocals Mixing into a limiter Why he buys every single plugin The quality of high vs. low track-count Advice for those getting started And so much more! You can learn more about Matt at https://matthuber.co/ You can follow Matt on Social Med...

Bonus Episode - 10 Must-Have Mindsets for Music Professionals - With Travis Ference of Progressions

This conversation first appeared as episode 98 of Progressions: Success in the Music Industry - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/episode/10-mindsets Credits: Guest: Ben Wallick Host: Travis Ference Editor: Stephen Boyd Learn more about Secret Sonics - https://www.benwallick.com/podcast

A Brief Message from Jerusalem

Sorry for Going AWOL

Sorry for dropping the ball there, wanted to keep you in the loop.

Secret Sonics 190 - John Velasquez - Fostering a Community Around Music

John Velasquez is a music producer, mixer, and songwriter based out of LA, CA, USA! In our conversation John and I go deep on the following: The importance of humility How he has built a community of creatives that he collaborates with Mindfulness Being real Patience Working with a team Getting artists to deliver great vocal performances The cry test Limitations are good The mix = the arrangement His new studio Be yourself And so much more! You can learn more about John at https://linearman...

Secret Sonics 189 - Enoch Yang - Future-Proofing Your Audio Business with Systems

Enoch Yang is a systems and operational management specialist (in addition to being a music producer and artist), based out of Charlotte, NC, USA! In today's episode, Enoch offers a hands-on roadmap for implementing effective systems within your audio business. This approach can help you streamline your business and focus more energy on your core work. In our conversation, Enoch and I go deep on the following topics: When to start implementing systems and what to focus on Future-proofing you...

Secret Sonics 188 - Daniela Rivera - Letting the Music Shine in the Mix

Daniela Rivera is an Emmy-nominated and multiple-Grammy participating audio and mixing engineer based out of Atlanta, GA, USA! She's also the Governor of the Recording Academy's Atlanta Chapter. In our conversation Daniela and I go deep on the following: Her Journey starting with a Korg Triton keyboard Assisting for legendary mixer Phil Tan Coming up the traditional studio route The Atlanta music scene Working the Soundbetter platform Her approach to low-end Getting great pop vocals Stereo b...

Secret Sonics 187 - Stephen Cole - Making Eclectic Records

Stephen Cole is a music producer, mixing engineer, musician, and the owner of What Studio based in Liverpool, England, UK! In our conversation Stephen and I go deep on the following: Being a self-taught product of the bedroom recording boom Building up a palette of sounds and recognizing the context of a sound Building a studio in a church Getting great drum sounds and relying on the room It’s all fake, pick your fake The importance of quick decision making Transparent communication with art...

Secret Sonics 186 - Travis Ference - Strategic Audio Workflows

Travis Ference is a Grammy-nominated mixing engineer and the host of Progressions, a podcast about finding success in the music industry. Travis is based out of LA, CA, USA! In our conversation Travis and I go deep on the following: Fatherhood and time management Soundflow, scripts, and other shortcuts Is AI coming for mixing engineers? Content creation and the surplus of noise on the internet Travis’s approach to stem processing Raising your rates ROIs on a mix Is technology helping us? Inv...

Secret Sonics 185 - Dave McNair - An Audiophile's Approach to Mastering

Dave McNair is a multiple Grammy Award-winning mastering engineer based out of Winston-Salem, NC, USA! In our conversation Dave and I go deep on the following: His journey in audio and mastering Why mastering engineers work so quickly How bass and vocals are paramount in a mix Mastering with mixing in mind and vice versa Correcting a good mix made with bad monitoring Dave’s journey in Hi-Fi The relationship between Hi-Fi and pro audio Moving the studio into his living room and his current se...

Secret Sonics 184 - Noam Levinberg - Manifesting Successful Pivots in Audio

Noam Levinberg is a mastering engineer and the owner of the brand-new plugin company, Safari Pedals! He's based out of Tel Aviv, Israel. In our conversation Noam and I go deep on the following: Lessons from building the audio department at a sync company You don’t have to smash the dynamics for sync music Headroom and dynamics Things are getting quieter How he built his new plugin company, Safari Pedals What’s under the hood of his plugins Why he says no to mixing and only masters music now ...

Mix_Notes 008 - My Approach to Electric Guitars

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. Here are some links based on what I referenced: Neural DSP's Wong amp - https://neuraldsp.com/plugins/archetype-cory-wong?g_acctid=332-563-6797&g_adgroupid=&g_adid=&g_adtype=none&g_campaign=%23GAds+-+Performance+Max+-+ROTW+-+Purchase+-+2023-04&g_campaignid=20006776209&g_keyword=&g_keywordid=&g_network=x...

Secret Sonics 183 - Philip Weinrobe - Music Production's Unorthodox Thinker

Philip Weinrobe is a record producer, mixing engineer, and the owner of Sugar Mountain Recording in Brooklyn, NY, USA. He's worked with talented artists such as Adrianne Lenker (Big Thief), Theo Katzman (Vulfpeck), Alanis Morissette, and many others! In our conversation Philip and I go deep on the following: Accidentally getting into recording by building studios for people including Shahzad Ismaily How record making is a series of thousands of decisions and how he tries to simplify the proc...

Mix_Notes 007 - These are a few of my favorite things - The Saturator Edition!

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. Here's a link to the video version - https://youtu.be/EOhQzrS2BaA Here are some links based on what I referenced: Black Box HG2 - https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/products/black_box_analog_design_hg-2.html Decapitator - https://www.soundtoys.com/product/decapitator/ Virtual Tape Machines - https://s...

Secret Sonics 182 - Scott Hull - Mastering Stellar Records

Scott Hull is a 40-year veteran Grammy award-winning mastering engineer and the owner of Masterdisk based in Peekskill, NY, USA. In our conversation Scott and I go deep on the following: Landing a Masterdisk internship and working with Bob Ludwig Leading an interdisciplinary life Striving for excellence The role of the engineer His approach to mastering Avoiding overprocessing and doing more with less Becoming familiar with your monitoring Human hearing and perception are malleable Mastering...

Mix_Notes 006 - All About That Bass

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. Here are some links based on what I referenced: Epiphone Viola Bass - https://www.epiphone.com/en-US/Electric-Bass/EPIPSM729/Vintage-Sunburst Khruangbin - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khruangbin Mitch Friedman - https://www.instagram.com/mitchthebassplayer/ Ampeg SVT - https://www.plugin-alliance.com/e...

Secret Sonics 181 - Joe Gilder - Setting Yourself Up to Create Music

Joe Gilder is a music producer, mixing engineer, musician, and songwriter based out of Nashville, TN, USA! He's also the owner of Home Studio Corner and is now the content creator for The Recording Revolution. In our conversation Joe and I go deep on the following: Getting started at Sweetwater as a sales rep Creating value for clients Working efficiently How he streamlines making great video content Being fast and in the flow while recording and producing Getting it right at the source Stock...

Mix_Notes 005 - These are a few of my favorite things - The Compressors Edition!

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. Here are some links based on what I referenced: Youtube video - https://youtu.be/Ll9b8R2n0tw Townhouse Compressor - https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/products/bx_townhouse_buss_compressor.html VU Compressor - https://purafied.com/products/purafied-audio-vu-compressor Virtual Mix Rack - https://slatedig...

Secret Sonics 180 - Lu Moreno - Having the Artist's Back

Luis "Lu" Moreno is a mixing and mastering engineer, the co-founder of In The Mix Studios, and the founder of MidSide Sound, based in LA, CA, USA! In our conversation Lu and I go deep on the following: Work/life balance Becoming an audio engineer Creating community and being a "Go-Giver" How Lu and Dee Kei met Low end theory It’s the ear, not the gear Revisions How he masters his own mixes Monitoring Pokemon cards as an incentive to grow Prioritizing your relationships over your career And s...

Mix_Notes 004 - Perfectionism

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. Here are some links based on what I referenced: Rick Rubin's book - https://amzn.to/3z4HKfY Arnob Bal - https://www.benwallick.com/podcast-episodes/2021/12/5/secret-sonics-124-arnob-bal-the-creative-practice Mikko Gordon - https://www.benwallick.com/podcast-episodes/2022/10/23/secret-sonics-163-mikko-go...

Secret Sonics 179 - Luke Fiadino - Heavy Approaches to Composition

Luke Fiadino is a music producer, mixing engineer, and composer based out of Philadelphia, PA, USA! In our conversation Luke and I go deep on the following: Getting work in metal Writing with artists Composing guitar parts Lessons from Alan Shacklock Programming Drums Producing vocals Templates and routing Avoiding the solo button How metal is moving online Writing regularly and putting in the reps Writing things that make you laugh Getting management And so much more! You can learn more abo...

Mix_Notes 003 - Building Trust

Mix_Notes are a chance for Ben to talk about the topics on his mind and share what's been happening in his studio - beyond the scope of the usual interviews that take place on Secret Sonics. The episode of the Mixing Music podcast where I wax poetic on this with Dee Kei - https://youtu.be/2HoT-AS-43M Website - https://www.benwallick.com/ Ben's IG - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic Secret Sonics IG - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics/ Enjoy!

Secret Sonics 178 - Aaron Beaumont - Novel Approaches to Creativity

Aaron Beaumont is a music producer, mixer, and composer based out of Brooklyn, NY, USA! In our conversation Aaron and I go deep on the following: His background as a composer Working with the Gregory Brothers How limitations actually foster creativity Managing quick turn-around times Humor and engineering Mangling songs together by splicing words and creative use of Melodyne NYC vs LA Reverb and space creation Getting bombastic drums Going back to basics Breaking out of cycles The gardener vs...