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  • The Tube-Tech CL1B: 10 Reasons It’s Essential for Clear Lake Recording Studios

    The Tube-Tech CL1B: 10 Reasons It’s Essential for Clear Lake Recording Studios

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    The world of audio recording is filled with tools and gadgets that cater to a wide range of sonic needs. Among these tools, some stand out as icons in the industry. The Tube-Tech CL1B is one such piece of equipment. If you’ve been to Clear Lake Recording Studios or have had the privilege to work there, you’ve likely come across this famous tube compressor. Here are the top 10 reasons why the Tube-Tech CL1B is not only essential for Clear Lake but for studios worldwide.

    1. Tube Sound Quality: Tube equipment has always been renowned for its warmth and musicality. The CL1B is no exception. Its design harnesses the best of tube technology to deliver a unique sonic signature.
    2. Versatility: Whether you’re compressing vocals, guitars, bass, or drums, the CL1B can handle it all. Its broad range of functionality makes it suitable for almost any instrument or voice.
    3. Transparent Compression: While many compressors color the sound (which can be a good thing in some cases), the CL1B can offer very transparent compression. This means that the original tone of the recording is preserved even when heavy compression is applied.
    4. Exceptional Dynamic Control: With the CL1B, you can meticulously control dynamics without introducing unwanted noise or distortion. This precision is crucial in professional recording settings.
    5. Durability and Build Quality: Any equipment that’s expected to function day-in, day-out in a busy studio needs to be robust. The CL1B is built to last, making it a long-term investment for studios like Clear Lake.
    6. Iconic Legacy: Over the decades, the CL1B has been used in countless hit records. Having it in the studio not only provides an incredible tool but also links Clear Lake to a rich history of musical excellence.
    7. Ease of Use: Despite its advanced capabilities, the CL1B is incredibly user-friendly. Its intuitive design means that even those new to the world of compression can get fantastic results.
    8. Consistency: With some equipment, results can vary. Not with the CL1B. Engineers at Clear Lake Recording Studios can always rely on it to deliver consistent results every time.
    9. Integration with Modern Workflows: While the CL1B is rooted in traditional tube technology, it seamlessly integrates into modern recording chains, providing the best of both worlds.
    10. A Benchmark for Comparison: Having an industry-standard piece of equipment like the CL1B allows Clear Lake Recording Studios to compare and contrast with other gear. It sets a benchmark for quality and performance.

    In conclusion, the Tube-Tech CL1B isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a statement. It represents a commitment to quality, excellence, and the timeless pursuit of perfect sound. For studios like Clear Lake, having the CL1B is not just about having a great compressor; it’s about being part of a grand tradition of music-making at its best.

  • Top 10 Reasons to Consider an Analog Recording Studio in 2023: Spotlight on Clear Lake Recording

    Top 10 Reasons to Consider an Analog Recording Studio in 2023: Spotlight on Clear Lake Recording

    In an era where the music industry often gravitates towards digital, there’s a surge of interest in the warmth and depth that only analog can deliver. For those seeking that authentic sound, Clear Lake Recording Studios in North Hollywood stands out as a gem among the best recording studios in LA. Here’s why:

    1. Unparalleled Depth and Warmth: Analog tape machines, such as the revered Studer 827 at Clear Lake, offer a warmth and fullness that digital often can’t replicate. The Studer remains one of the most revered 2” analog recorders thanks to it preserving the classic analog sound while maintaining a low noise floor, an extended high-frequency response, rock-solid durability, and advanced features like being able to sync with Pro Tools.
    2. The Vintage Factor: In an age of plugins and emulations, there’s nothing like the real thing. The Trident 80b console, vintage Pultec EQP1A3s, Neve 1073 modules, and multiple Urei 1176s at Clear Lake bring a timeless character to recordings.
    3. Historical Legacy: When you record with equipment that has seen countless hits, you’re partaking in history. Clear Lake, a top Los Angeles recording studio, has an arsenal of vintage microphones. Some of our more notable vintage tube and solid-state microphones include a Neumann U67, the stereo tube Neumann SM2, Neumann U47 Fet, and a pair of tube Sony C37As. These vintage microphones and the rest of our extensive mic locker have played vital roles in capturing the sonic excellence of classic albums.
    4. Character and Authenticity: The ADR Vocal Stressor and Spectrasonics 610 found at Clear Lake can impart a unique harmonic coloration yet unparalleled versatility, setting the studio apart from many recording studios in LA.
    5. The Clear Lake Touch: This North Hollywood recording studio’s Otari MTR-12 2 track 1/2″ ensures the final mix will have that distinct touch of analog magic. It also allows our clients to record and mix an entire project using only analog equipment. Working within the limitations and utilizing the processes that nearly all recorded music prior to the 1990s used creates a unique atmosphere for our clients. This atmosphere can help bring out the best in many musicians and artists because they know their part can’t be manipulated or compiled from a massive list of alternate takes. Everyone knows the stakes are higher, and it’s a fulfilling accomplishment to know your recordings are purely your own artistic expression.
    6. An All-Encompassing Experience: The tangible nature of analog, from adjusting knobs to seeing reels spin, offers musicians a tactile and immersive recording experience.
    7. A Step Away from Over-processed Sound: In a digital age, many productions can sound overly polished. An analog recording studio in Los Angeles, like Clear Lake, brings back organic imperfections that can deeply resonate with listeners.
    8. Unique Room Acoustics: It’s not just the gear but also the space. Clear Lake’s studios, designed by renowned acoustician George Augspurger and originally built as an analog studio, make it a prime music production studio in LA for recording to tape.
    9. A Hub of Creativity: Located in the heart of North Hollywood, Clear Lake is surrounded by a community of artists, writers, and producers, fostering a creative atmosphere unparalleled by other studios.
    10. Keeping the Tradition Alive: Choosing to record in an analog environment is also a nod to preserving the traditions of music production. While technology advances, there’s an art to analog that deserves to be celebrated and continued. Furthermore, Clear Lake can synchronize our Pro Tools system to the tape machine so that we can utilize the best of both worlds!

    In conclusion, while we always maintain the latest, state-of-the-art computers, converters, and Pro Tools Systems, a functioning analog studio like Clear Lake stands as a testament to the timeless quality and artistry that recording to tape can provide. Furthermore, it creates the opportunity to blend modern and vintage tools in infinite ways and allows our clients to develop their own unique sonic palettes. Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned musician, the lure of a top-notch analog recording studio in Los Angeles is hard to resist. If you seek depth, warmth, and authenticity in your recordings, Clear Lake Recording Studios awaits.

  • The 10 Key Factors for Deciding the Best Recording Studio in Los Angeles

    The 10 Key Factors for Deciding the Best Recording Studio in Los Angeles

    When deciding on a recording studio, customers typically consider several key factors to ensure they get the best possible experience and results. You will find Clear Lake and Fever Recording Studios in Los Angeles go above and beyond these considerations:

    1. Audio Quality: Customers want the best sound quality possible. They look for studios with top-notch recording equipment, acoustically treated rooms, and experienced engineers who can capture their music and audio material with clarity and precision. Clear Lake and Fever Recording go above and beyond with designs by world-renowned acousticians like George Augspurger. We maintain a wide variety of industry-standard equipment and are at the forefront of cutting-edge formats like having a Dolby Certified Atmos mixing studio.
    2. Location: Being in a prime location, especially in a music hub like Los Angeles, is often crucial. Easy accessibility can make a recording studio more attractive to artists and producers. We are conveniently located near the 5 freeway, 101, 170, and 134.
    3. Equipment and Technology: State-of-the-art recording equipment and technology can significantly impact the quality of the final product. We are fortunate to offer a wide range of instruments, microphones, mixing consoles, and software plugins between our 3 studios.
    4. Engineer Expertise: The experience and skill level of the studio’s engineers are critical. Clients look for engineers who understand their vision, can provide valuable input, and have a track record of successful projects. We have specialists in every genre and will always match our clients with the perfect engineer.
    5. Reputation: Our studio’s reputation in the industry is a significant consideration. Positive reviews, testimonials, and past client success stories will reassure all potential customers that they are making the right choice using our services.
    6. Personalized Experience: Everyone appreciates a personal touch. We always take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and tailor our services accordingly so everyone has an accurate scope of their project needs.
    7. Comfort and Atmosphere: Our studio’s environment plays a vital role in the creative process. A comfortable and inspiring space can help artists and musicians perform at their best and reach their own genuine brilliance.
    8. Budget: Cost is a significant factor for many customers. Clear Lake and Fever Recording offer competitive rates and transparent pricing structures. Please call us to find the best studio for your needs and budget. 818-762-0707
    9. Turnaround Time: Timeliness matters, especially for projects with deadlines. We pride ourselves in completing our client’s projects within an agreed-upon timeframe.
    10. Additional Services: We are not just a recording studio in the traditional sense. We also offer extra services like mixing, mastering, and even advice about effectively releasing your music once it’s recorded.

    Clear Lake and Fever Recording Studios, conveniently located in the Arts District of North Hollywood in Los Angeles, is the perfect fit when you consider the most important criteria for a recording studio in the Los Angeles area.

  • Elevating Your Sound: The Vital Importance of Using a Professional LA Recording Studio

    Elevating Your Sound: The Vital Importance of Using a Professional LA Recording Studio

    In today’s digital age, music creation has become more accessible than ever before. With technological advancements, it is now possible to set up a home studio and record tracks from the comfort of your own space. However, a professional recording studio is an indispensable asset for artists seeking the best sound quality possible and an environment that fosters creativity. In bustling music hubs like Los Angeles, renowned studios like Clear Lake and Fever Recording offer unmatched expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and an ambiance that can elevate your sound to new heights.

    1. Unparalleled Expertise: One of the critical advantages of choosing a professional recording studio is the expertise available at your disposal. Studios like Clear Lake and Fever Recording in Los Angeles house experienced engineers and producers who have worked with various artists across different genres. Their knowledge and understanding of recording techniques, equipment, and sound engineering are invaluable resources that can bring out the best in your music. Collaborating with professionals who have a wealth of experience can significantly enhance the quality and depth of your recordings.
    2. State-of-the-Art Equipment: A professional recording studio provides access to top-of-the-line equipment. Cutting-edge microphones, preamps, compressors, and high-quality recording consoles all contribute to the sonic landscape with unmatched clarity and fidelity. These studios invest in regularly updating their gear, ensuring that artists have access to the latest advancements in audio technology. The meticulously designed acoustic spaces in professional studios eliminate unwanted noise and provide an optimized environment for recording and mixing, resulting in pristine, professional-grade audio.
    3. Creativity-Enhancing Atmosphere: The environment and atmosphere significantly impact your creative process and the outcome of your music. A professional recording studio offers a unique ambiance that fosters creativity and inspiration. Dedicated spaces, separate control rooms, and acoustically treated recording areas create an immersive and distraction-free setting. Additionally, the creative energy and musical history that permeate professional studios can inspire and elevate your performances, allowing you to push your artistic boundaries and unlock new dimensions within your music.
    4. Collaborative Opportunities: Recording studios often serve as a hub for musicians, engineers, and producers, attracting a diverse range of talents. By choosing a professional Los Angeles recording studio, you position yourself within a community of like-minded individuals, increasing your chances of networking and collaboration. The chance encounters and shared experiences within these creative spaces can lead to fruitful partnerships and the discovery of new musical avenues. The invaluable connections you forge in a professional studio can pave the way for future collaborations and career opportunities.

    Conclusion: While home studios offer convenience and affordability, they often need more technical prowess, specialized equipment, and a professional environment that a dedicated recording studio provides. The renowned Los Angeles studios, such as Clear Lake and Fever Recording, offer a range of advantages that can take your music to the next level. From their unrivaled expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to the creatively stimulating atmosphere and collaborative opportunities they present, professional recording studios like Clear Lake serve as a gateway to achieving your artistic vision with uncompromising quality. When it comes to capturing your sound and making an impact in the music industry, entrusting your craft to the professionals is an investment that pays off in the form of an efficient and exceptional sonic experience.

  • Most Useful Quick Keys in ProTools

    Most Useful Quick Keys in ProTools

    Most Useful Quick Keys in Pro Tools

    Why is it important?

    Being successful as an audio engineer requires you to be flawless in your designated DAW. These quick keys for Pro Tools, an industry standard, guarantees engineers speed and precision that provides a time-effective and proficient session for them and their clients.  Quick keys speed up your workflow, with accessible shortcuts that allow you to access tools and features right from your keyboard without having to click through lengthy menus or leave your workspace. 

    These are some essential Pro Tools quick keys to learn quickly to hit the ground running!

    The Essentials:

    • Spacebar: Start/stop playback
    • Command + =: Switch between edit and mix windows
    • Shift + Command + N: Create new tracks
    • T: Zoom in
    • R: Zoom out
    • Enter: Returns timeline selection point to the beginning of the session
    • 3(Numeric Keypad) OR Command + Spacebar OR F12: Record
    • Command + S: Save
    • Command + Z: Undo
    • Shift + Command + Z: Redo
    • Command + C: Copy
    • Command + V: Paste

    Having a numerical keypad is a necessity that allows multiple quick keys to be accessible that would not be available otherwise.

    Numeric Keypad:

    • Enter: Create new memory location
    • 0: Start/stop playback
    • 1: Move timeline selection point back 1 bar
    • 2: Move timeline selection point forward 1 bar
    • 3: Start record
    • 4: Enable/disable loop playback
    • 5: Enable/disable loop record mode
    • 6:Enable punch record mode
    • 7: Enable/disable metronome
    • 8: Enable/disable count-in
    • 9: Enable/disable MIDI merge

    Quick keys used for editing greatly improves speed and functionality. A faster workflow can improve a client’s session by providing a smoother recording experience. 

    Editing and Mixing:

    • A: Trims everything before the timeline selection point
    • S: Trims everything after the timeline selection point
    • D: Creates a fade from the beginning of a clip up to the timeline selection point
    • F: With a whole clip(s) selected, will add short fades to the beginning and end
    • G: Creates a fade after the timeline selection point to the end of the clip
    • Command F: Batch fade
    • P: Move the timeline selection point and/or a clip selection up a track
    • ; (semi-colon): Move the timeline selection point and/or a clip selection down a track
    • , (comma): Nudge a clip to the left (based on your chosen nudge value)
    • . (period): Nudge a clip to the right (based on your chosen nudge value)
    • Command + E OR B: Separate clip based on current selection
    • Command + H: Heals a separation
    • Command + T: Trims clip to the current selection
    • Command + B: Removes current selection
    • Command + U: Opens strip silence
    • Command + G: Group the selected tracks
    • Shift + Command + G: Suspend all groups in the session
    • Option + Command + G: Group selected clips together; opt + cmnd + U will undo the clip group

    Other Favorites: 

    • Control + \(Backslash): New playlist for a selected track
    • Shift + Command + I: Import audio
    • Shift + Command + K: Export clips as files
    • Tab: Move to next clip edge
    • Option + Tab: Move to previous clip edge
    • Tilde: Cycle Though edit modes
    • Option + Shift + D: Duplicate 

    We hope you take advantage of these quick keys to significantly enhance your skills in ProTools for your next recording, editing, or mixing session!

    Polish Your Sound at Clear Lake Recording Studios & Fever Recording Studios

    Contact us at Clear Lake Recording Studios and Fever Recording Studios to learn more about our comprehensive assortment of recording services.

  • Best Trap Splice Packs

    Best Trap Splice Packs

     Best Trap Splice Packs

      

    Over the last five years, trap-infused production has become ubiquitous in studios of all sizes. Pounding 808s and flittering hi-hat loops reverberate from bedroom studios to powerhouse main monitors and everywhere in between. If you need to upgrade or update your trap sample library, these Splice packs are an excellent start. Check out our top five picks below! 

     

    1. UZ – Real Trap Samples

     

    Megastar DJ and cultural influencer UZ offers one of the best trap packs in the Splice catalog. The pack is full of diabolical synth atmospheres, searing basses, and larger-than-life 808s. The snare rolls in this pack are particularly useful if you’re looking to save time: simply drag and drop one at the end of your phrase to get a crispy transition (cue cymbal crash on the downbeat). This pack is a great place to start for foundational trap sounds, with plenty of obnoxious kicks and snares to bring a smile to your face as you turn them up.  

     

    1. SOPHIE Samples

     

    Another pioneer in trap and pop was the late SOPHIE, who passed away in January 2021. Her production credits speak for themselves, including Charlie XCX, Madonna, Cashmere Cat, Vince Staples, and a range of other talented artists. Known for her “hyper-kinetic” take on pop and trap music, SOPHIE has crafted a pack that delivers metallic synth glitches, massive subs, creepy textures, and some of the most innovative percussion one-shots we’ve ever heard. Take a listen for yourself above. 

     

    1. Naderi’s Secret Sauxe

     

    Sydney-based producer Naderi has amassed quite a track record, engineering and remixing for the likes of Flume, Skrillex, Trippie Redd, and The Killers. In his “Secret Sauxe” pack, Naderi has included inspirational synth arpeggios and quick, echoing vocal phrases that serve as outstanding ear candy when combined with panning automation. The closed hi-hats in this pack are all processed in a way that makes them smack harder than the hats in your average trap pack. This is a go-to selection for sprinkling unique trap flavors on top of your track.  

     

    1. umru: sound cache

     

    umru’s “sound cache” presents some of the hardest-hitting drum samples on the Splice market. Scrolling down the samples, each percussion hit somehow seems to hit you in the chest more than the last. The Estonian-American producer, well-known for his remix of Lido’s “Citi Bike”, has gifted the Splice community with his mix of knocking kicks and disrespectful snares, which are familiar enough to hook listeners but also different enough to maintain their interest. This pack is a great place to start if you are looking for the backbone of your trap drums.  

     

    1. KRANE Samples

     

    With seven volumes in total, KRANE’s sample packs display versatility and thoughtfulness that will leave any producer satisfied. The cracking snares are the highlight – they sound fantastic and will make your drops punchier while giving them edginess and attitude. They also function well when layered on the twos and fours. Aside from the snares, these packs boast a range of crafty percussion loops, huge bass one-shots, and rich, emotion-infused arpeggios that will leave you downloading volume after volume. 

     

    We hope you enjoyed this list, but why pigeonhole yourself into one genre? Check out our top five indie Splice packs here.

    https://splice.com/

     

    Polish Your Sound at Clear Lake Recording Studios & Fever Recording Studios

    Contact us at Clear Lake Recording Studios and Fever Recording Studios to learn more about our comprehensive assortment of recording services.

     

  • Creative Uses for Your Free Plugins

    Creative Uses for Your Free Plugins

    Producers and engineers of all skill levels can get caught up in wanting to purchase the latest game-changing plugin. Unfortunately, many of these new tools have a tendency to break the bank. For the budget-conscious producer, we’ve identified several unorthodox ways that free plugins can add character and life to your tracks. Check out the full list below! 

     

    Camel Crusher on Synths

    Camel Crusher was once a staple distortion plugin for major EDM acts, primarily to fatten basslines and lead synths. In 2015, Camel Audio was acquired by Apple, discontinuing the line of Camel products. For those who are willing to search, Camel Crusher is still available and can have wondrous effects when its distortion, filtering, and compression capabilities are applied to synth material. Take a listen to the example below – by adjusting the Mech and Tube Distortion settings and automating the filter cutoff, you can easily transform a synth in seconds. 

    Regular Synth:

    Camel Crusher Synth: 

     

    Tal Chorus LX on 808s 

    The Tal Chorus LX, a standalone version of the chorus implemented in the larger Juno 60 emulation plugin by TAL, sounds great on just about any source. It shines on pads and synths, creating a gooey width and depth that instantly gives them a lush feel. A more uncommon use is to create width on the top of your 808s. Try creating a send, hi-passing everything up to 130 Hz with an EQ, and then place the Tal Chorus LX after it with the stereo width and the dry/wet knobs at 100%. Be judicious with this one! 

    Regular 808:

    Tal Chorus LX 808: 

     

    OTT on Vocals 

    OTT, or “Over The Top” Compression, is typically used on instrument sources, such as synths in massive EDM drops, or pianos that need to poke out of the mix. However, when applied subtly at the end of a direct vocal chain, OTT helps a vocal sound more front and center by lifting some high frequencies and boosting the gain a touch. This application can be a game-changer if your vocals are competing for space in the mix, and also works great on vocal chops. 

    Regular Vocals: 

    OTT Vocals: 

     

    Slicers on Melody Loops 

    Logic, Ableton, and FL Studio all come with built-in slicers (if you’re in Pro Tools, try Structure Free). These plugins allow you to slice a sample of audio into smaller pieces and trigger them in any sequence you please. If you’re a loop maker, try throwing one of your finished loops into a slicer and messing with the timing and order of your audio sample! Get creative and make a whole new loop. Oftentimes, these textures and flips are great ways to spice up different sections of your song. 

    Bonus tip: try pitching individual slices up and down, or duplicating certain slices and stretching them out to double their length (the popular “half-time” effect) to layer underneath your new loop.

    Regular loop: 

    Slicer loop: 

     

    Dimension Expander on Electric Guitars 

    The Dimension Expander is a standalone plugin based on the “Dimension” feature that comes standard inside Serum by Xfer Records. The plugin has two controls: a dry/wet knob and a size knob. The magic of Dimension Expander is on full display when it’s placed as an insert on an electric guitar track. With the size at 100% and the dry/wet around 33%, the plugin transforms the dry signal into one with a unique depth hard to achieve with other plugins. Hear the difference below: 

    Regular Guitar:

    Dimension Expander Guitar: 

     

    If you want more of these tips, be sure to check out this article for creative ways to use other plugins in your collection! Happy producing. 

     

    Polish Your Sound at Clear Lake Recording Studios & Fever Recording Studios

    Contact us at Clear Lake Recording Studios and Fever Recording Studios to learn more about our comprehensive assortment of recording services.

     

  • “Music Is Organized Sound”: The Job of an Audio Engineer

    “Music Is Organized Sound”: The Job of an Audio Engineer

    Merriam-Webster defines an engineer as, “a person who carries through an enterprise by skillful or artful contrivance.” In the case of an audio engineer, art and skill are certainly involved in equal measure. What exactly is the job of an audio engineer and how does it shape the final product?

    What Does an Audio Engineer Do?

    In a nutshell, an audio engineer controls the technical aspects of sound, whether in a recording studio or during a live event. While this involves nuts-and-bolts activities such as working with equipment, an audio engineer is also responsible for achieving the sound an artist is looking for. 

    An audio engineer has a more narrow range of duties than a music producer, but the position frequently serves as a launching pad into a career in production. Here’s a breakdown of the major tasks that make up the job of an audio engineer:

    • Recording, Mixing, Editing, and Mastering Sounds
      The primary purpose of an audio engineer is to capture vocal, instrumental, and ambient sounds on physical or digital media and manipulate these sounds to come up with a finished recording. This includes everything from regulating volume levels and adjusting balance to overlaying tracks and matching sound to video.
    • Handling Mic Selection and Placement
      For a lay person, this may seem like a no-brainer. In fact, microphones can make or break a sound recording or performance. First, there are three primary types of mics (condenser, dynamic, and ribbon) that have different applications and an audio engineer needs to know when to use which one. Second, mic placement makes a huge difference. Moving a mic one inch in any direction can have a significant effect. While there are general rules of thumb, an audio engineer uses instinct and experience to determine optimum mic placement.
    • Equipment Setups and Checks
      In a studio setting, much of the audio equipment is already set up, but an audio engineer will usually arrive well ahead of recording time to test mics, check cables, and ensure everything is in working order. The job takes on a larger scope at a live event, where the audio engineer takes charge of making sure all equipment is set up properly. Many bands have a dedicated sound engineer who travels on tour with them. This person has a familiarity with the band’s set, enabling them to smoothly apply special effects and other tricks at the appropriate times. In a pinch, an audio engineer may also be called upon to repair malfunctioning equipment.
    • Collaborating with Artists and Producers
      The artist has a vision, and the producer is responsible for bringing it to fruition. It’s up to the audio engineer to work closely with both so everyone is on the same page regarding the project at hand. When it comes to achieving certain sounds, artists and producers will often rely on the audio engineer’s expertise about the best techniques to use, so an engineer should be prepared to offer advice and suggestions as needed.
    • Troubleshooting
      During the recording of the iconic charity anthem, “We Are the World,” producer Quincy Jones and the audio engineer were baffled by a recurring noise heard in playbacks. They finally discovered that the sound was coming from Cyndi Lauper’s clanging bracelets. It’s an amusing story now, but audio engineers may find themselves faced with similar problems that they are expected to solve.

    Create the Sound of Success at Clear Lake Recording Studios

    Clear Lake Recording Studios and our newest facility, Fever Recording Studios, offer state-of-the-art equipment and full-service amenities at cost-effective prices. Contact us to learn more.

     

  • Best Indie Splice Packs

    Best Indie Splice Packs

    Splice has revolutionized producers’ access to high-quality samples, making your new favorite sound just one click away. However, with hundreds of thousands of sounds in the Splice arsenal, it can be tough to know where to start. We have you covered! Check out our top picks for indie Splice packs below. 

     

    5. nicopop: sounds of summer vol. 1

     

    Los-Angeles based producer Nicolas DiPietrantonio offers a meticulously crafted set of indie dance-pop sounds, ranging from punchy stomps to light, mix-ready claps. The vocals in this pack are perfect for sprinkling into the stereo field to add ear candy in sparse productions, or as tonal beds for choruses. The keys offer great starting points for that summery, poolside feel. 

     

    4. Memory Palace: Bedroom Pop

     

    This well-rounded pack, put together by multi-instrumentalist Ben Bromley, features nostalgic guitars, homemade percussion samples, and a range of ethereal Serum presets geared toward the modern bedroom producer. A unique combination of synthwave, indie rock, and lo-fi influences, the pack draws on inspiration from artists such as Tycho and My Bloody Valentine. Notably, the ambient, hazy melodic loops in this pack are super evocative and give songwriters plenty of room to explore. 

     

    3. That Sound

     

    While technically a label rather than an individual pack, That Sound offers best-in-class human drum one-shots and loops. Trusted by everyone from Justin Stanley (Prince, Eric Clapton) to Ned Cameron (Lil Wayne, Migos), these libraries are composed predominantly of live performances and retain a beautiful dynamic range that will add a human spark to your percussion. Highlights include Boots + Claps, Mammoth, and Indie Aesthetic. 

     

    2. Organic Electronics by J. Views

     

    A twice Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter, J. Views’ pack contains creative foley and organic textures perfect for a wide range of indie music. From snares made from cabbage to stomps made from ice, these sounds will introduce natural, fresh elements into your recordings. The textures in this pack are frequented by Illenium and SaidTheSky, who chop them up and use pieces of them as percussive elements to fill space in the mix. The companion packs, Organic Electronics 2 and 3, are also worth a deep dive. 

     

    1. Travis Barker Drum Kit

     

    If you want punchy drums from one of the best drummers on the planet, look no further. This kit, which comes straight from the drumsticks of world-renowned drummer Travis Barker from Blink-182, is filled with cracking snares, thick rock kicks, and thunderous crashes. This pack especially shines when it comes to fills. Boasting 38 of them, they are sure to liven up any transitions in your drums and give your track a professional edge.

     

    Polish Your Sound at Clear Lake Recording Studios & Fever Recording Studios

    Contact us at Clear Lake Recording Studios and Fever Recording Studios to learn more about our comprehensive assortment of recording services.

     

  • Behind the Scenes: The Job of a Music Producer

    Behind the Scenes: The Job of a Music Producer

    Google, “What is a music producer?” and you’ll get a vague, generic answer like, “A music producer assists an artist with their recording project.” Much like a film director or baseball manager, a music producer is responsible for an overarching set of intangibles that are sometimes hard to define. Ultimately, they can make or break an artist’s final recorded product. So how does a music producer shape the sounds you hear?

    What Does a Music Producer Do?

    “Jack of all trades, master of none” could have been coined to describe a music producer. They aren’t necessarily experts in singing, mixing, or other elements of music recording, but they know enough to understand how they work together to create a specific sound. A music producer has a vision of what the final product should sound like and works to coordinate all the elements. 

    Here’s a look at some of the major activities that make up the job of a music producer:

    1. Oversee Schedule and Budget
      This is one aspect where a music producer dons a business hat instead of a creative hat. While artists would prefer not to be concerned with schedules and budgets, these are real concerns for commercial recording projects.  Good producers have demonstrated the ability to keep a project on time and on budget.

    2. Hire Personnel
      Does a solo singer need musicians or back-up vocalists? Who will handle mixing and other technical duties? A music producer generally takes care of locating and hiring the appropriate personnel for a project. If the producer is working with a solo artist instead of a band, they will often consult with the artist about what musicians they want to work with.

    3. Shepherd the Creative Process
      This is both the most important part of a music producer’s job and the most difficult to quantify. No matter how talented a singer or musician is, they can’t simply record their performance and call it good. Their work needs to be massaged and molded into a final product with commercial appeal. Producers apply their combination of knowledge and instinct to elicit the performances, arrangements, and other factors that will bring the project to life. George Martin, iconic producer for the Beatles, referred to it as, “painting a sound picture.”

    4. Resolve Conflicts
      Legendary stories about bands from the Beatles to Fleetwood Mac to Oasis show that even success doesn’t guarantee immunity from creative conflicts. Producers are called on to stay level-headed and keep disagreements from getting out of hand.

    5. Maintain Optimum Workplace Conditions
      A music producer can help prevent conflicts from surfacing in the first place by making sure the recording studio has a positive atmosphere, or “vibe.” Long hours and creative pressures wear on people, and a smart producer finds ways to strike a balance between work and play so spirits stay high. Many artists are also prone to self-doubt, so a producer will recognize the signs and provide support and encouragement.

    6. Manage Social Media
      This is a more indirect activity, but today’s music industry is so entwined with social media that it can’t be ignored. In addition to building a following and creating opportunities for artists, a music producer uses social media to stay on top of current trends and find out what people are listening to.

    Find All Your Production Needs at Clear Lake Recording Studios

    Whatever support you need, from equipment to a production team and everything in between, Clear Lake Recording Studios has it. Contact us for more information.