Secret Sonics
Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.
Episodes
#256 - The Subtle Art of Layering Percussion
Ben and Carl share some of the techniques they use to add percussive depth without cluttering your mix. Learn why texture beats rhythm, how to stretch samples for supernatural groove, and the specific workflow for making percussion serve your song instead of competing with it.Discover:Why Carl’s orchestral training taught him to add texture instead of rhythm to modern pop mixesHow time-stretching
#255 - Energy Vampires Are Killing Your Career
What happens when a successful music producer realizes he’s been working with the wrong people for years? Carl reveals the moment everything changed after his first child was born, and why he now prioritizes client personalities over everything else. The conversation gets deep about energy vampires, family priorities, and a surprising truth about word-of-mouth referrals.Discover:Why Carl went from
#254 - The Shelf-Life of Major Credits
Learn the three essential principles that turn your biggest credits into sustainable income, why Grammy winners still struggle to find work, and how to position yourself so clients see your rate as a steal instead of an expense. Carl shares real strategies from working with 15+ Grammy-winning students who came to him for business help.Discover:The uncomfortable reality that major awards have expir
#253 - Dave Stagl: Leaving Artists Speechless with Dolby Atmos
Learn why one of the most experienced immersive audio engineers believes most people are approaching Dolby Atmos completely wrong, and discover the emotional framework that’s helping artists create deeper connections with their fans. Plus, find out what producers should actually look for when hiring an Atmos engineer and why checking mixes in multiple formats could transform your workflow.Discover
#252 - The NEW Business of Mixing
What happens when a mixing engineer accidentally builds clients in 30 countries while living in Pennsylvania? Carl discovered that global currency differences and economic crashes might be the secret weapon most audio professionals are completely ignoring.Discover:Why COVID permanently shifted the industry away from big city studiosHow global economic instability can actually stabilize a mixing en
#251 - Context Context Context (Vocals Pt2)
What makes a vocal feel perfectly placed… or totally disconnected?This week, we’re getting way past plugin chains and diving into the real work of vocal mixing: context. We’re talking about how to make vocals live in a mix, not just sit on top of it. Because getting a vocal to shine isn’t just about EQ moves - it’s about storytelling, space, and knowing who gets the spotlight in each moment.We exp
Quick Announcement: Taking a Week Off to Celebrate 6 Years and 250 Episodes
Quick Announcement: Taking a Week Off to Celebrate 6 Years and 250 Episodes - because we deserve it!
#250 - Are We Making Vocals Too Perfect? (Pt1)
Two cranky engineers accidentally reveal why your technically perfect vocals sound emotionally deadIn this episode, Ben and Carl dive into why the "mistakes" you're fixing might be the only thing keeping your vocals human. From pre-production psychology to multi-de-esser philosophy, they challenge everything you think you know about processing vocals.Discover:How over-rehearsed bands sabotage thei
#249 - Are We Hearing the Bass, or Just Feeling It? (Pt2)
In this episode, Ben & Carl get into the gritty business of making bass actually work in a mix. Not just technically — but emotionally, musically, and physically. We challenge each other’s instincts, admit when we’re wrong, and debate who should own the sub: the bass or the kick?Spoiler: it depends — but we each have our go-to moves and a few spicy disagreements.Discover:Whether bass should be
#248 - Our Wildly Different Bass Philosophies (Pt1)
We didn’t mean to go this deep—but here we are.This week, we cracked open the bass rabbit hole and just kept falling. What started as a casual chat about tracking techniques quickly turned into a full-on audio archaeology dig. Fingerstyle vs. pick. Flatwounds vs. roundwounds. Phase issues. Amp sims. DI regrets. When to tune your bass like it’s a vocal. And why the right bass might be a $300 violin
#247 - The Drummer's Divide: Two Wildly Different Approaches to Drum Production
Think there's only one "right way" to record and mix drums? Think again. In this revealing episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into their completely opposite approaches to drum production. Despite working from opposite ends of the spectrum, they discover they're ultimately chasing the same emotional result. This conversation might just give you permission to try that "crazy" technique you've been hesi
#246 - Template Updates: The Unsung Hero of Efficient Mixing
In this "nerdy episode," Carl and Ben dive into a topic that affects many producers but rarely gets attention: updating your mixing templates. They explore how these living documents should evolve alongside your workflow, highlighting how small adjustments can lead to significant time savings and creative benefits.Discover:Why templates should evolve rather than remain static for yearsHow to recog
#245 - Why You’re Afraid to Charge More (And What To Do About It)
Raising your rates sounds simple… until you actually try to do it. In this special episode,Carl breaks down the real reasons studio pros avoid increasing their prices - and why most of those reasons are based on fear, not facts.Carl pulls from 20+ years of experience helping producers and engineers build sustainable careers outside the traditional music industry hubs. With practical examples and t
#244 - You Don't Need Permission: Why Creatives Hold Back & How to Move Forward
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the psychology of permission-seeking that stops so many creative professionals from taking the next step in their careers. Through the story of an artist hesitant to perform her first solo show, they explore why we often wait for external validation before pursuing our goals – whether that's raising our rates, reaching out to dream clients, or sharing o
#243 - Creating Unforgettable Client Experiences
How do you create such an amazing client experience that artists wouldn't dream of working with anyone else? Carl unpacks key insights from Will Guidara's "Unreasonable Hospitality" and explores how to apply these principles to studio businesses. Discover practical ways to transform client interactions from transactional to unforgettable, whether you're working remotely or in-person.Discover:How t
#242 - Limitations > Creativity
Why do children create fearlessly while professional producers get stuck staring at blank DAW sessions? In this insightful conversation, Ben and Carl explore the counterintuitive truth that creative freedom comes from embracing constraints, not avoiding them. From Sufjan Stevens' state-themed albums to the natural evolution of decision-making throughout the production timeline, they reveal how lim
#241 - Inspiration: Where to Find It, How to Nurture It, and Why It Matters
Ben and Carl tackle the all-too-familiar challenge of creative burnout and share surprisingly effective ways to reignite that creative spark. When you're creatively stuck, listening to new music might be more valuable than trying to create. This episode is all about how rediscovering the joy of being a music fan first can lead to fresh inspiration, and they share their personal strategies for brea
#240 - Forging New Directions: Chasing What Feels Right in Music & Creativity
What happens when you finally get an ADHD diagnosis at 39 and start noticing real changes in how you work? Or when you realize you’re craving more human energy in a music world that’s feeling increasingly robotic? In this episode, Carl and Ben unpack the creative shifts they’re making—from Carl’s deep dive into remixing in unexpected ways to Ben’s push for more live, unpolished recordings.Discover
#239 - Reference Mixes: When They Should (and Shouldn’t) Guide Us
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into that tricky moment we all face: deciding when to follow a reference mix and when to trust your own instincts. Sparked by Carl's current remix project, they get real about the messy balancing act of honoring artist expectations while still trusting your gut.Discover:The challenging balancing act when artists love both their rough mix and reference tracks that
#238 - Time Management: Why Productivity Advice Fails Music Pros
In this candid episode, Ben and Carl tackle the unique time management challenges faced by music professionals - especially ones with ADHD and kids. They explore why many popular productivity techniques fall flat in the real world of constant interruptions, creative flow states, and the unpredictable chaos of family life.Discover:Why the "two-minute rule" can backfire, turning into hours of small
#237 - Playlist Psychology: Organizing Your Work to Impress the RIGHT Clients
In the competitive world of music production, your portfolio playlist is more than just a collection of tracks - it's a strategic tool for attracting your ideal clients. Join Ben and Carl as they dive deep into the art and science of curating the perfect playlist to showcase your work. From what song to put first to how to organize your entire body of work, this episode covers it all. Discover:Why
#236 - How to Know When Your Song is Finished
In this deep-dive episode, Ben and Carl explore the challenging question that plagues every music producer: "How do you know when it's done?" Working backwards through the production chain, they break down the decision-making process at each stage of music creation, from mastering to tracking.Discover:Why comparing your mix to the master might be hurting more than helpingThe surprising reason Ben
#235 - Emotional Cues in Mixing: Crafting a Powerful Listener Experience
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the art of using emotional cues in mixing and production to create a more immersive and impactful listening experience. Rather than just focusing on technical settings, they explore how moment-to-moment emotional shifts in a song can guide mix decisions—turning a mix into a storytelling tool rather than just a sonic balance exercise.Discover:How emotion
#234 - Rethinking Sonic Identity
Remember last episode when we talked about finding your "sonic signature"? Well, Carl had some revelations that completely flip that concept on its head.In this follow-up episode, we explore why searching for a single, definable "signature sound" might be the wrong approach entirely. Instead, we dive into the idea of "sonic identity" - a more nuanced way of understanding how different clients conn
#233 - Finding Your Sonic DNA: A Deep Dive into Musical Identity
What really shapes a mixer's signature sound in today's post-genre world? Ben and Carl explore the evolving nature of sonic signatures, from early career influences to streaming-era adaptability. Discover how your musical foundations, early projects, and listening habits combine to create your unique sonic fingerprint - and why that signature might be more fluid than you think.Discover:Why early c
#232 - Setting (and Resetting) Goals for 2025
After an unexpected hiatus, Ben and Carl return with a candid conversation about goal-setting, life challenges, and finding balance in the audio industry. Ben and Carl share their wins, setbacks, and evolving perspectives on what success looks like when juggling multiple priorities.Discover:How Carl exceeded his ambitious 1,000-person outreach goal (and why he stopped counting)Why specific, measur
#231 - Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
In this episode, Ben and Carl reveal why blindly pushing boundaries isn't the answer - and share their framework for intentionally shifting your comfort zone instead. Plus: real talk about raising rates without feeling like a jerk, why some producers thrive in chaos, and the art of making business changes without losing your soul.Some topics we cover:• The sneaky way comfort zones can kill your
#230 - Seasons of Growth
Ever feel like you're juggling too many transitions at once? In this episode of Secret Sonics, Carl and Ben get real about the challenges (and unexpected opportunities) of major life and business changes. From moving studios to streamlining services, they dive into what happens when your personal and professional worlds collide.Whether you're thinking about delegating tasks, moving your studio, or
#229 - Mix Like a Producer: Crafting Sonic Depth and Dimension
In this episode, Ben and Carl pull back the curtain on their approach for taking good mixes to the next level by implementing additional production. You'll get a peek into their fast-paced workflow, trying out new ideas without overthinking and how they get experimental with sound design.Blending multiple sources to craft dream guitar, piano, and other instrument tonesHunting for complementary sou
#228 - Philip Weinrobe Part 2 - Trust and Authenticity in Music Production
In this episode, Ben and Carl continue their conversation with Phil Weinrobe and dive deep into the intricacies of trust-building and authentic music production in the studio. They explore the importance of clear and direct communication, the challenges of balancing perfection with creative spontaneity, and unique practices like limiting playback to foster trust and focus on performance. The discu
#227 - Philip Weinrobe Part 1 - Death by Perfection: Bringing Humanity Back to Records
In this episode, Ben and Carl reconnect with Phil Weinrobe to challenge common recording assumptions and share his refreshingly human-centered approach to music production.Why live tracking creates musical magic that overdubs can't replicateHow breathing sounds act like a conductor's baton for emotional impactThe vocalist, not the rhythm section, often drives the rhythmic feelTrust your gut reacti
#226 - Why the Client Isn't Always Right (But Their Vision Is)
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into the delicate art of handling mix revisions and collaborating with artists. After a brief hiatus, they return with fresh insights on:Why mix revisions aren't personal attacks on your skills or tasteThe balance between respecting the artist's vision while providing professional guidanceHow to handle situations when artists' requests conflict with their stated
#225 - Burnout and Overwhelm in the Audio Industry
In this candid episode, Ben and Carl open up about their personal struggles with burnout and overwhelm. This episode offers a raw, honest look at the realities of burnout in the audio industry, reminding listeners they're not alone in these struggles.Topics we discuss:The challenges of balancing work, family, and other life stressorsManaging communication overload across multiple platformsStrategi
#224 - Matt Huber Part 2 - The Mixer's Mastermind: Collaborative Learning and Leveling Up
In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a competitive mindset holds you back, and Matt's latest revelations about multiband processing on the mix bu
#223 - Matt Huber Part 1 - Mastering Loudness in the Streaming Era
In this illuminating episode, mixing engineer Matt Huber shares his deep dive into the complex world of loudness for streaming platforms. Discover the surprising factors that influence perceived loudness on Spotify, the unexpected benefits of strategic quietness, and how to craft mixes that translate beautifully across all mediums. Whether you're a mixing novice or a seasoned pro, you'll gain valu
#222 - What We Wish We Knew When We Got Started
If you could start your audio career over in 2024, what would you do differently? Ben and Carl explore this thought-provoking question, sharing hard-won wisdom on striking the delicate balance between artistic growth and business savvy in today's music industry landscape. Discover practical strategies for developing your craft while building the entrepreneurial skills needed for long-term success.
#221 - Dave McNair Part 2 - The Lifelong Learner's Guide to Mastering
In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters. Get ready for a masterclass in audio wisdom that will transform the way you approach your craft!Topics w
#220 - Dave McNair Part 1 - The Perpetual Balance of Taste and Technique
In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for producers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, this conversation is p
#219 - Dana Nielsen Part 2 - Vocal Production Mastery
In this second part of our interview with Dana Nielsen, we dive deep into the world of vocal production. Dana shares his expertise on working with singers, from capturing great performances to the intricacies of vocal editing and comping. He offers invaluable insights into creating a comfortable environment for artists, reading the room, and knowing when to push for better takes or call it a day.
#218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy
Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana shares insights on reading the room, adapting to artists' needs, and navigating studio dynamics. He offers
#217 - Nick Nagurka Part 2 - The Psychology of Live Recording
In this second part of our interview with Nick Nagurka, we dive deeper into the human side of Nick’s approach to live band recording. Nick shares insights on creating a comfortable environment for artists, managing the pressure of performance, and maintaining the delicate balance between technical excellence and capturing raw, authentic moments. From fostering trust to handling unexpected challeng
#216 - Nick Nagurka Part 1 - Capturing Magical Moments (Live in the Room)
Welcome to the first interview episode of Secret Sonics 2.0! We're kicking off our revamped format with a bang, pulling back the curtain on the art and science of live band recording with engineer extraordinaire Nick Nagurka.Known for his work with Theo Katzman and Vulfpeck, Nick brings a fresh perspective to the age-old challenge of capturing lightning in a bottle.Nick's approach turns convention
#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 periodsHow to nurture client relationships through s
Quick Announcement: The Platinum Pitch (Free Class)
“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASSRegister today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout
#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 habitsCarl's journey in self-confidence and adaptabilityAdapting to post-COVID industry chan
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/202
#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.
#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 minimalismPacing and instrumentationSimplici
#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 st
#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 liste
#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
#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 imperfect
#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 achiev
#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:
#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
#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 m
#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 identityHow to harness your quirky strengths to attract you
#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 jour
#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 discus
#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 earsThe little-known trick for using mastering to diagnose and fix mix problemsThe su
#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
#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
#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 timeRealizing that artistic purpose can fuel and expand your goals as it connects with listenersLife priorities reshape definitions of success at different stagesLiberation from standardized metrics frees you
#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 feedbackBuilding a "circle" of trusted people to give feedbackCharacteristics to look for in people you ask criticism fromReceiving criticism during different stages of productionDealing with well-intended but unhelpful feedbackHandling aggress
#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 h
#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 pluginMarketing and sales tactics that might work on usExperien
#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 mixi
#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 in
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 & scalingNiching downAtmosHis approach to mixingGetting bright (but not harsh) vocalsMixing into a limiterWhy he buys every single pluginThe quality of high vs. low track-countAdvice for those getting startedAnd so much more!Yo
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-mindsetsCredits:Guest: Ben WallickHost: Travis FerenceEditor: Stephen BoydLearn 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 humilityHow he has built a community of creatives that he collaborates withMindfulnessBeing realPatienceWorking with a teamGetting artists to deliver great vocal performancesThe cry testLimitations are goodThe mix = the arrangementHis new stu
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 t
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 keyboardAssisting for legendary mixer Phil TanComing up the traditional studio routeThe Atlanta music scen
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 boomBuilding up a palette of sounds and recognizing the context of a soundBuilding a studio in a churchGetting great drum sounds and relying on the roomIt’s all fake
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 managementSoundflow, scripts, and other shortcutsIs AI coming for mixing engineers?Content creation and the surplus of noise on the internetTravis’s
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 masteringWhy mastering engineers work so quicklyHow bass and vocals are paramount in a mixMastering with mixing in mind and vice versaCorrecting a good mix made with bad monitoringDave’s journey in Hi-FiThe relations
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 companyYou don’t have to smash the dynamics for sync musicHeadroom and dynamicsThings are getting quieterHow he built his new plugin company, Safari Pedal
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=%23
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