Clear Lake Recording Studios

Tag: Audio engineer

  • 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.

  • Creative Uses for Your High-End Plugins

    What thread connects Finneas, Timbaland, Benny Blanco, and Dr. Dre? 

    Out of thousands of music producers, these four have risen to the top because they are innovators who push sonic boundaries and bend genres in creative and inexplicable ways. They are unafraid to experiment, take risks, and most importantly, break the rules. In the spirit of rule-breaking, we’ve compiled a list of unconventional ways to use the plugins in your arsenal that will separate your sound from the rest. 

    WARNING: the following is a deep dive and will get technical! 

     

    Polyverse Music Manipulator on 8o8s 

    Designed mainly for use on vocals, Manipulator can also shine when its parameters are automated on an 808. Try different combinations! A fun one is to automate the Alternator, Octave, and Harmonics knobs to achieve a “drowsy 808” effect. Check it out below: 

    Normal 808:

    Drowsy 808: 

     

    Wavesfactory Spectre on Vocals 

    Spectre by Wavesfactory uses 10 high-quality saturation algorithms to introduce harmonic content to a desired part of the EQ spectrum. Most producers put Spectre on a mix bus to breathe life into the track, but it also does great work on vocals. Try boosting some of the mids and the high shelf and hear your vocal cut through the mix with new warmth and air. 

    Regular Vocals: 

    Spectre Vocals:

     

    iZotope Trash 2 on 808s 

    Trash 2 is iZotope’s flagship saturation and distortion plugin, capable of everything from subtle touches to sonic destruction. However, one of its most interesting uses is on 808s, using the Convolve feature to introduce your booming low end into a new space, such as an amplifier or a fishbowl. The mix knob is particularly handy for giving your 808s just the right amount of that unique flavor.

    Regular 808: 

    Convolve 808 (Noir):

    Convolve 808 (Kick Box):

     

    Universal Audio Studio D Chorus on Synth Bass

    The Studio D Chorus emulates a hardware unit that introduces spatialization and subtle modulation into every track that runs through it. Try putting the Studio D on a return track, followed by a high-pass EQ cutting the sides below 130 Hz. Send some of your bass signal to the track and listen as it becomes wider, richer, and fuller. For best results, engage settings two and four on the Studio D Chorus. 

    Regular Bass:

    Studio D Bass: 

     

    Celemony Melodyne Studio on Melody Loops 

    This is a trick used by legendary producer Ian Kirkpatrick, best known for his work with Dua Lipa, such as “Don’t Start Now”. Kirkpatrick will import a loop into his DAW, then insert Melodyne Studio on it and tweak it until he arrives at something unrecognizable from the original loop. Playing with the Spectrum, Formant, and Amplitude controls can yield inspirational, unique results. Take a listen below. 

    Regular Loop: 

    Melodyne Loop: 

     

     

  • 15 Seconds of Fame: How TikTok Is Reshaping the Music Industry

    In October 2020, millions of TikTok viewers watched as a skateboarding man named Nathan Apodaca wistfully lip-synched the Fleetwood Mac hit, “Dreams.” In no time, the 43-year-old song vaulted back onto Rolling Stone’s Top 100 while the band reported its best-ever week in streaming.

    How did this whimsically-named social media app become such a point of influence? Here’s a look at TikTok and how it’s reshaping the music industry.

    What Is TikTok?

    Launched only six years ago by Chinese start-up ByteDance, TikTok hit the big time in 2017 when it acquired rival app Musical.ly and its account list of 200 million users. With its worth estimated at $50 billion, TikTok is considered the most valuable startup in the world.

    TikTok’s function is simple and addictive. Users can create, watch, and share short videos shot on cellphones. Available length started out at only 15 seconds, then expanded to 60 seconds, and is now up to three minutes long.

    Creators can personalize their content with TikTok’s assortment of filters, background music, sound effects, and stickers. People can even collaborate and make split-screen duets without being in the same location.

    TikTok and Its Effect on the Music Industry

    While platforms such as Facebook and Instagram connect with a broad spectrum of age groups, TikTok captures the always desirable younger demographic. Approximately 60 percent of the U.S. audience is between the ages of 16 and 24.

    With those numbers, it’s not surprising that the music industry has capitalized on the massive marketing potential of TikTok. Here are some ways the platform has had a major effect:

    • TikTok is changing consumer habits. Spotify and other streaming services use algorithms based on what you’re already listening to. With TikTok, consumers will listen to songs that go viral, so they’re open to a much wider range of product. 
    • Just as YouTube and Instagram have created social media celebrities known as influencers, TikTok has its own influencers who play a major role in promoting songs. There are even influencer agencies who will create an entire campaign aimed at building your brand. 
    • Listening to music has traditionally been considered a passive activity. TikTok flips the script by making it interactive thanks to the user’s ability to make their own videos, which creates a deeper level of engagement. 
    • Yes, older songs can find new life on TikTok, but the platform is relatively democratic, providing equal opportunity for all. Independent artists are free to upload and promote their own songs and videos, without the backing of a record label. According to a survey by TikTok, 75 percent of their users discover new music primarily on this platform.

    TikTok Success Stories

    • Lil Nas X has become the textbook example of musical success via TikTok. As a 19-year-old college dropout sleeping on the floor of his sister’s house, Lil Nas X bought a $30 beat and created the country-rap hybrid, “Old Town Road.” TikTok creators used the song as background for videos where they donned Western gear, and “Old Town Road” ended up as the most popular song of 2019. 
    • Over two days in 2021, Justin Bieber gave the first full-length single-artist live performance on TikTok, drawing more than 4 million unique viewers.   
    • “Not Your Barbie Girl,” a minor song by singer-songwriter Ava Max, exploded when women started using it as backdrop for Barbie-themed videos. When Ava’s song, “Sweet but Psycho,” had even more success, it ultimately picked up 550 million streams on Spotify.

     

     

    Professional and Cost-Effective Recording Services

    Is your music TikTok-ready? Contact us to learn about the comprehensive selection of services available at Clear Lake Recording Studios. 

  • What Your Electronic Press Kit Should Have

    For an independent musician, the traditional text resume just doesn’t cut it. Your electronic press kit, or EPK, is an indispensable tool for getting you and your music in front of promoters, booking agents, journalists, and other industry professionals.

    A well-constructed EPK can make all the difference. Make sure these elements are included in your own EPK.

    1. Musician bio

    Your bio serves two important purposes. Not only does it tell the reader who you are, but it helps create a connection with you as an artist. 

    Since different promoters and bookers will have their own requirements, create several versions of your bio to be used as appropriate.

    • The “elevator pitch” is just what the name implies: one or two sentences that sum up the essence of who you are.

    • You should also have short (1 paragraph), medium (2-3 paragraphs) and long (4+ paragraphs) versions prepared.

    • Each one can be included as a downloadable file if you don’t want your EPK to appear cluttered.

    As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, so put in the time to create bios that truly shine.

    1. Professional photos and album art

    This is not the place to upload a photo that your friend snapped on their iPhone at your last gig. These should be carefully curated professional photos that can be used in layouts for marketing materials. 

    Choose images that promote your brand and communicate the image you want to convey. This could be pictures from live shows or inside the studio as well as personal shots from your everyday life. 

    Photos should be high-resolution with a mix of vertical and horizontal formats. Large graphics files can be uploaded to a cloud service and you can include a sharable link.

    1. Press and testimonials

    Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn here! Include any mentions you’ve had in the press, such as positive reviews and quotes from interviews, along with testimonials from industry professionals. These all go a long way towards establishing your credibility.

    1. Audio links

    It’s all about the music, so include links to audio files of your songs, whether they’re on Spotify, YouTube, or Soundcloud. It’s helpful to have a player with a play button loaded into your EPK so the music is just one click away. A sentence or two describing your music can add context. Some acts have started offering a free download as part of their EPK.

    1. Tech rider

    Make life easier for booking agents by specifically listing tech needs for live shows, such as number of mics and plugs. This is a handy reference for any venue that you may end up playing.

    1. Social media links

    Let’s face it. In this digital age, it’s virtually impossible to build a following without an online presence. Include links to your website along with your profiles on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms.

    1. Tour dates

    Let people know when and where they can see you. Sharing information about upcoming appearances also gives people a chance to spread the word to others.

    1. Contact information

    No matter how stellar the rest of your EPK is, it’s all for nothing if people can’t reach you. Include your email address, phone number, and any other contact resources. This is also a good place to link to a contact form on your website.

     

     

    Polish Your Sound at Clear Lake Recording Studios

    Make sure you have professionally crafted music to go with your EPK. Contact us at Clear Lake Recording Studios to learn more about our comprehensive assortment of services.

  • 3 Interfaces We Run Into in a Commercial Studio Environment and Why

    In the market for an interface and want to get something that will be useful for longer than the time it takes you to learn it? Here are a few units most people would consider “beginner interfaces” that still manage to sneak their way into professional studio environments.

    Why might someone still see these so-called beginner interfaces in a professional studio environment? Because of their simplicity, of course. When you’re booking a studio, time is always one of your biggest enemies. Having a simple interface you know extremely well can save you tons of money on troubleshooting time. If you master one of these interfaces, you can be up and cooking in a professional studio in no time.

    Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

    A great interface for any aspiring recording engineer on a budget is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. With the 3rd generation model coming in at around $170, and older, used models even less than that, Scarlett interfaces are your best bet if money isn’t necessarily pouring in from that single you recorded on your phone last week. They are also just about as simple as an interface gets. If you were to go to school for audio recording, this would be the interface your teacher would recommend. Another benefit to learning a Focusrite is it’s also cheap to upgrade to a more versatile Scarlett unit once you find yourself needing more inputs and outputs. The 2i2 will get you started with two inputs, allowing you to record two sources at once, or experiment with stereo micing techniques.

    SSL 2+

    The SSL 2+ is a great starting point for someone looking to grow in the audio recording industry. It has two inputs that allow for mic/line recording with a HI-Z option as well. Both channels also feature a 4K legacy button that introduces a bit of SSL 4000 console color to your signal. Both Fever and Clear Lake house SSL2+’s as extra interfaces for producers to quickly run their mobile rigs with the mics and gear offered in the studios. They are trusted for their portability, durability, and simplicity.

    Audient iD14

    If you want to hit the ground running with something that will give you professional quality whether you’re in a studio or not, the Universal Audio Apollo Solo or Apollo Duo would be your best bet. By far the most respected out of all the basic interfaces, you won’t need to explain to anyone why you showed up with this unit. With the Duo starting around $1000, and the Solo starting at around half that price, it definitely is not your cheapest option. The money does get you better quality and some additional features less expensive interfaces don’t have. A couple of those features being an extra instrument input and onboard DSP for UAD plugins. Universal Audio is a very well respected name in the world of audio recording. Familiarizing yourself with their gear and plugins early in your audio journey can’t hurt.

    No matter what interface you choose, it’s important to get as familiar with it as possible in order to seamlessly capture audio for whoever your clientele may be. Yes, that means actually reading the manual, pushing all the buttons, and turning all the knobs. You might just surprise yourself and learn something new.