Music Production Blog

Multiband Distortion 101: Best Techniques & Advanced Tips

Multiband distortion is all about shaping your sound, enhancing harmonics, and making your mix shine with different unique textures.   If you’re a producer, knowing all about using multiband distortion creatively can enhance your skills and really take your beats to the next level.   It can help you add warmth to your synths, create […]

How to Choose a DAW That Best Fits Your Unique Style (2025)

As a producer, choosing the right DAW (digital audio workstation) is… well, everything.   You have to consider workflow speed, plugin compatibility, and MIDI editing capabilities.   As well as things like sound quality, OS compatibility, and whether you’ll be working with external gear or modular synthesis.   It’s going to be the place where […]

9 Mind-Blowing Multi-Effects Plugins I HIGHLY Recommend 2025

Multi-effects plugins are all about shaping, enhancing, and transforming your sound, whether you want to add movement, create depth, or completely mangle things.   They can help you warm up a mix with saturation, add space with reverb and delay, or even create crazy rhythmic effects.   As producers, knowing the best multi-effects plugins is […]

The 11 Best Vocal Effects Processors for ALL Genres & Styles

Vocal effects processors are all about transforming your vocals and giving them a super professional, polished sound.    They can help you enhance clarity, add depth, and shape your vocal tone in ways that make your voice (or your artist’s voice) really stand out in the mix.    Plus, if you want tight compression, crystal-clear […]

13+ Advanced Mixing Techniques For Mind-blowing Mixes

Mixing is all about balancing elements, creating clarity, and making sure everything flows nicely and fits together flawlessly.   As producers, knowing how to mix is one thing, but knowing advanced mixing techniques can really take things to the next level.   With them, you’ll have unmatched control over your mixing process, enhance sound quality […]

The 8 Best De-Esser Plugins You Absolutely NEED in 2025 

De-essers are all about controlling those sharp, harsh “s” and “sh” sounds that can make a mix sound overly bright or harsh.   They can successfully reduce sibilance, smooth out vocals, and help keep the high-frequency content in check.    Plus, they can help you maintain clarity without completely killing the natural brightness of your […]

What is a De-Esser? (Key Features And 7+ Best Techniques)

De-essers are all about taming harsh sibilance in vocals so that your mix stays smooth, clear, and professional.    They can reduce piercing “s” and “sh” sounds, balance high frequencies, and prevent any unwanted harshness from ruining your vocal mix altogether.   Plus, they help you retain brightness in a vocal without making it sound […]

Mastering Signal Chain 101: Key Steps to an Impactful Master

Mastering is all about taking your final mix and polishing it up so it sounds loud, clear, and professional on every playback system.    But, in order to have a killer master, you need to know how to set up your mastering signal chain the right way.    Each step in the chain builds on […]

10+ Killer Time-based Effects To Completely Change the Game

Time-based effects are all about manipulating the timing of an audio signal to add depth, create space, and shape the overall feel of your mix.    They can completely transform dry sounds, enhance stereo width, and add movement so your tracks are always on point.   Plus, they help you successfully build dynamic soundscapes, smooth […]

8 Best Limiter Plugins For Super Clean Masters (2025)

Limiter plugins are all about maximizing loudness while maintaining clarity and dynamic range.    They can help you achieve professional mastering results, control peak levels, and prevent distortion (even when pushing your tracks to commercial loudness standards).    Plus, modern limiter plugins give you everything you need for razor-sharp precision.   You can  fine-tune gain […]

9 Super Realistic Tape Emulation Plugins (Best of 2025)

Tape emulation plugins are about bringing that classic analog warmth, saturation, and depth that people absolutely love.   They can glue your mix together, smooth out transients and add subtle harmonic distortion (plus seriously enhance the vibe of any track, of course).   As producers, knowing the best tape emulation plugins can improve your flow […]

Should I Be Using Reference Tracks? 20+ Advanced Tips/Tricks

Reference tracks are super useful, there’s no doubt about it.    They can help you dial in the right tonal balance, fine-tune your mix, and achieve a professional sounding music production.    Plus, successfully matching loudness levels, understanding stereo width, and analyzing frequency response will take your own mixes to the next level.   As […]

9 Best Beatmaking Apps You NEED in 2025 (Free & Premium)

When you’re a producer, inspiration can hit you out of nowhere, which is why I’m breaking down the best beatmaking apps in the game.    Each one of the following apps is powerful, feature-packed, and designed to help you make beats, create music, and mix tracks with ease.    They can help you lay down […]

Harmonics and Overtones 101: Sculpt Sound like a True Expert

Harmonics and overtones are all about the extra layers of sound that shape the timbre of any musical tone you could imagine.   They can enhance clarity, add depth, and completely change how people perceive notes and frequencies altogether. Cr They basically define why a guitar string and a brass instrument playing the same frequency […]

Using Effect Sends In Super Creative Ways + 4 Advanced Tips

Effect sends let you apply reverb, delay, and other effects to multiple tracks at once without overloading your CPU.    Plus, using effect sends the right way can help you keep your mix clean, control wet/dry balance, and create dynamic effects that bring everything together.    And, when it comes to getting a professional, polished […]

10 Best Analog Emulation Plugins for That Epic Classic Sound

Analog sound is all about warmth, depth, and natural character; the kind of tone that makes recordings actually feel alive.    It’s what gives classic records their smooth, rich quality, with just the right amount of saturation, harmonic distortion, and subtle imperfections.    In a digital world, it’s easy for tracks to sound too clean […]

How to Emulate Analog Sound 101: Best Tips & Epic Techniques

Analog sound is, hands down, the holy grail of audio engineering because it brings unmatched warmth, depth, and harmonic richness to the table.    And let’s be honest, digital sounds just can’t touch that kind of saturation and dynamic range… Unless you have the right tools, techniques, and tricks, that is.   Luckily, I’m breaking […]

11 Best Compressor Pedals for the Ultimate Dynamic Control

The best compressor pedals are great when it comes to shaping your sound, tightening up your dynamics, and adding sustain without sacrificing tone.   They help smooth out volume inconsistencies, enhance sustain, and keep your playing punchy, consistent, and professional.   Plus, they can help you add clarity to clean tones, control peaks on overdriven […]

Audio Compression 101: Controlling Dynamics & Enhancing Clarity

Audio compression is about controlling dynamics, enhancing clarity, and bringing out the best in every sound in your mix.   It can help smooth out vocals, tighten up drums, and make your entire track sound more powerful and mind-blowing.   Plus, you’ll know how to successfully apply the right compression settings, choose the right type […]

#1 Music Theory Course EVER (Best Tips & Hidden Secrets!)

Music theory is all about understanding notes and rhythms to the scales, chords, and progressions that get people hooked.   Plus it helps you learn how to create harmonies, structure melodies, and arrange tracks the right way to take your production skills to the next level.   As producers, knowing all the music theory basics […]

Tube Saturation 101: Key Elements & Best Tips/Techniques

Tube saturation is all about adding warmth, bringing out harmonics, and making your audio signal feel fuller and more alive.    It adds even harmonics, smooth distortion, and a natural analog-style tone that can add depth to a mix and make your recorded signal sound more on point.    Plus evens out the dynamic range, […]

What is a Shepard Tone & How Do I Create One? + 4 Best Tips

A Shepard tone is one of the most mind-bending auditory illusions in sound design 一 it sounds like it’s endlessly rising or falling in pitch, yet it never actually goes anywhere.    It tricks your brain into hearing a scale that feels infinite.   So, when it comes to building tension, creating suspense, and adding […]

What is a Spectrogram 101: Fix Hidden Problems and Level Up

Spectrograms are all about visualizing sound and showing you exactly how frequency content changes over time.    They can help you scope out hidden audio problems, fine-tune amplitude, and clean up unwanted frequency spectrum buildup.    Plus, they let you identify masking issues, enhance your dynamic range, and shape your sounds with insane precision.    […]

What is Spatial Audio? Creating Super Immersive 3D Sounds 

Spatial audio is all about making your music feel immersive, three-dimensional, and as real-life as possible.    It takes sound beyond the usual left ear and right ear placement 一 letting you position different sounds anywhere in a 360-degree sound field.    As producers, knowing all about spatial audio can seriously level up your mixing […]

Noise Gate vs Expander 101: Key Differences & Creative Tips

Noise gates and expanders are two very powerful dynamic processing tools that can completely change how clean, punchy, and professional your mixes sound.    One cuts unwanted noise with an all-or-nothing approach, while the other shapes dynamics more naturally by controlling volume in a smoother way.    As producers, knowing all the differences between a […]

11 Legendary Glue Compressors You NEED in 2025 (Epic Mixes)

Glue compressors are all about creating cohesion and balance in your mix.    They add punch, smooth out dynamics, and help your tracks feel more connected, which make your mixes sound polished and professional.    They’re not just about controlling dynamics 一 they enhance tone, add warmth, and bring a mix together in ways that […]

9 Best Phase Correlation Meters For Super Clean Tracks (2025)

Phase correlation meters tell you exactly how the left channel and right channel of your audio interact so you can easily spot and fix phase issues before they ruin your mix.    They’re an absolute must-have for analyzing stereo width, phase alignment, and frequency balance.    Plus, they can help you avoid phase cancellation, tighten […]

How to Prevent Frequency Masking Like a True Expert in 2025

Frequency masking occurs when two or more sounds occupy overlapping parts of the frequency spectrum, which causes one or more elements to become less audible.    As producers, knowing how to successfully prevent frequency masking can completely transform your mixes 一 making them cleaner, more professional, and full of clarity.    Plus, it helps each […]

The 10 Best Equalizer Plugins That Are Killing It in 2025

EQ plugins are all about shaping sound, enhancing clarity, and solving mix issues.   Whether you’re adding warmth, cutting harsh frequencies, or creating space for every track in a mix, the right EQ plugin is key for getting your sound on point.    Plus, modern EQs give you advanced features to play around with like […]

How to Recreate Your Favorite Sounds 101 (Expert Techniques)

Recreating your favorite sounds is super exciting and one of the best ways to improve your music production skills in the process (win-win).   However, it can get a little complicated if you don’t know the key elements, tools, or step-by-step process.    As producers, knowing how to recreate your favorite sounds is all about […]

12 Legendary Resonance Suppressor Plugins You NEED in 2025

The best resonance suppressor plugins can completely transform your mixes by removing harsh resonances and balancing tonal issues.   It adds clarity to even the most cluttered tracks.    Plus, they can successfully tame problematic frequencies, smooth out resonant peaks, and eliminate unwanted resonance across your entire frequency spectrum.    As producers, knowing the best […]

Resonance in Music 101: Taming Frequencies for a Better Mix

Resonance in music can either be a powerful tool for creating depth and texture in your mix or a major issue that ruins the clarity of your sound.    However, when it’s bad, it’s distracting, piercing, and can completely take over your track in all the wrong ways.    As producers, knowing how to identify […]

The 8 Best Amp Simulator Plugins for 2025 (Super Realistic)

Amp simulator plugins bring the sound of real amps, cabinets, and pedals straight into your DAW with unmatched realism.   Whether you’re knocking out epic cleans, gritty overdrives, or crushing high-gain tones, they deliver every single time (and they’re super flexible to boot).   While saving you from the hassle of setting up physical gear […]

Phaser Effects: Add Epic Motion to Your Beats + 5 Best Tips

Phaser effects are all about creating depth, motion, and character.   They can transform a basic sound into something dynamic and alive 一 adding richness and complexity to everything from guitars to synths (and even drums).    Plus, they help your tracks stand out by bringing some unique textures, rhythmic modulations, and atmospheric tones to […]

Bitwig vs Ableton: Which Is the Absolute Best DAW in 2025?

Bitwig and Ableton are both super dope DAWs, no question about it.    One thrives on modular sound design and customization, while the other is a live performance powerhouse with a sick workflow.    But today, I’m breaking down everything about Bitwig vs Ableton so you can choose the best DAW for you 一 I’m […]

12 Mind-Blowing Guitar Compression Pedals You Need in 2025

When you’re looking for the best compression pedals, there are a few things to keep in mind, of course.   You should make sure the pedal enhances your tone without adding unwanted noise and comes packed with whatever you need for your unique style/goals.   Plus, it should include features like parallel compression, customizable attack […]

Secrets to Writing Melodies That Are Super Addictive (2025)

Writing melodies is all about creating something that hits hard, gets people all in their feels, and sticks in their heads long after the track ends.    Plus, it has to flow with your chords, fit the rhythm, and grab your listeners attention right off rip.   As producers, knowing how to write melodies that […]

The BEST Sound Design Tutorial In The Entire Industry (2025)

Sound design is all about creating, shaping, and controlling the sounds that bring your tracks to life, and going as crazy as you want in the process.   Whether it’s designing synthesized sounds, adding modulation for movement, or layering various synths for a unique style, every choice you make affects the final result.    As […]

How to Mix Music like a Professional + 8 Epic Advanced Tips

As producers, learning how to mix music is super important.    You need to know how to balance multiple audio tracks, make each element fit into the frequency spectrum, and create a cohesive sound that feels polished.    Plus, you’ve got to get creative with the effects, automation, EQ, and compression you’re using, plus much […]

12 Most Mind-Blowing Free DAW Options for 2025 (MUST HAVE)

As producers, your DAW is where you’re going to spend, like, 90% of your time.    It’s got to feel right, work smoothly, and give you all the tools you need to bring your tracks to life 一 plus, it should keep up with you when inspiration hits.   But let’s face it… some DAWs […]

Vocal Production 101: Essential Techniques & Best Tips

Vocal production is not just about making the vocals sound good 一 It’s about making them freakin’ unforgettable (not to mention super professional).   From the raw energy of a great recording session to the precise polish of mixing and effects, every single step matters.    As producers, the more you know about vocal production, […]

Harmonic Exciters 101: Unlock Rich Harmonics for Clean Mixes

Using harmonic exciters can seriously elevate your mixes and masters.    They bring clarity, warmth, and detail to your audio signals 一 adding the finishing touch that makes your tracks really pop.    Plus, they help everything sound polished, professional, and balanced across any playback system (which is very important).   It brings unmatched brightness […]

How to Play Guitar on a MIDI Keyboard? 10+ Best Techniques

Learning how to play guitar on a MIDI keyboard isn’t the easiest thing because it takes the right gear and techniques so everything transfers the right way.   Plus, you have to nail down the dynamics, articulations, and strumming patterns so your tracks sound genuine.    Successfully pulling this off can open up a world […]

How to Use Limiters 101: Prevent Clipping for Balanced Audio

Limiting is all about controlling peaks and shaping the audio signal to create a polished, professional sound.    It can prevent clipping, enhance perceived volume, and bring balance to your dynamic range, which will set you apart from all the amateurs out there.   Plus, it makes sure that your tracks are always on point […]

How to Use Tape Machines 101 (Best Tips & Authentic Sounds)

Tape machines are all about adding warmth, saturation, and a unique character to your tracks so they instantly capture attention.   They are the absolute best at delivering that analog warmth and tape compression that digital systems can’t quite replicate.   As producers, knowing how to use tape machines can seriously elevate your sound and […]

What is a Music Score 101 & Why It’s Important for Producers

Music scores show you exactly what to play and how to play it 一 breaking down every note, rhythm, and detail so nothing gets left to guesswork.    If you’re a digital music producer, you might be wondering if you really need to know what is a music score, and the short answer is: 100% […]

Top 13 Transient Shapers in 2025 (Best Free & Paid Options)

Transient shaping is all about controlling the attack and sustain of your sounds 一 giving you the power to fine-tune dynamics with incredible precision.    It can help you add punch to your drums, smooth out harsh transients, or create more balanced dynamics across your mix than ever before.   Plus, by successfully managing transients, […]

The Secret to DAWless Production in 2025 (Best Techniques)

Producing without a DAW can be seriously fun 一 plus it’s very popular right now.   It’s all about using hardware/gear like drum machines, synthesizers, and sequencers to produce music, all without needing a computer.    A DAWless production setup can seriously help you get creative, stay focused, and connect more with your music (if […]

Digital Distortion vs Harmonic Saturation 101 & Best Tricks

Digital distortion and harmonic saturation are two very different effects, but they get confused or lumped together as the same thing a lot.   As producers, knowing the differences between them and when to use each unique one can bring your production skills to the next level, which is what you should always aim for. […]

7+ Distortion Effects for Super Gritty, Intriguing Tracks

Distortion effects can add some real grit and character to your tracks 一 helping things sound bigger, warmer, and never dull.    As producers, knowing all about the different distortion effects can seriously enhance your production skills so your tracks always stand out and feel extra impactful.    That’s why I’m breaking down everything you […]

11+ Reverb Effects To Help Your Tracks Come Alive (Pro Tips)

Reverb effects can add some serious depth and dimension to your tracks.    They can make boring recordings feel alive, help elements blend together properly, and make sure your soundscapes are always on point.   Plus, reverb helps define the mood and space of your mix 一 whether you’re going for a tight, punchy groove […]

10 Best Subscription Plugin Bundles in the ENTIRE Industry

As producers and sound designers, we’re always looking for the best new plugins without absolutely draining our bank accounts.    But sometimes, investing in individual plugins can add up super fast.   Plus, there are so many options out there that it’s hard to know where to start or which ones are worth the subscription […]

Best Equalizer Settings for Clear, Dynamic Tracks + 10 Tips

The best EQ (equalizer) settings can completely make or break your track.    But, if done right, they can define your mix’s clarity, hype up your unique sound, and balance every element perfectly.    Plus, they make sure your music translates well across all playback systems, from headphones to car stereos, which is super important. […]

De-essing 101: Get Pristine Audio Quality Every Single Time

De-essing is all about controlling sibilant frequencies (those sharp, hissing “s” and “sh” sounds that can sneak into your vocal recordings or instrument tracks).   It can seriously improve the audio quality of your mixes by reducing problematic sibilance so you have a more polished, professional result.   Plus, it helps your vocals and instruments […]

How to Set Up Your Master Bus: 13 Essential Steps + Pro Tips

Learning how to set up your master bus properly is super important because it’s the key to a fluid, flawless, professional mix.   Plus, it will make your mix bus processing smoother, keep your tracks balanced, and make sure everything sounds great on any playback system.    As producers, you’ll have to know all the […]

The 7 Best Source Separation Plugins EVER (2025 Edition)

Source separation plugins are all about taking a fully mixed track and breaking it down into its key elements (like vocals, drums, basslines, etc.).    They can isolate individual stems, clean up tracks for professional remixes, and even let you manipulate each individual element to create something entirely new/epic.   As producers, using source separation […]

Saturation Effects 101: How to Make Super Addicting Tracks

Different saturation effects can be total game-changers for your beats 一 they bring warmth, depth, and unique textures to your tracks.    Plus, adding analog warmth, subtle distortion, and harmonic richness can make your tracks sound less generic and more pro-level.    As producers, mastering various saturation techniques can seriously elevate your mixes. That’s why […]

Mid-Side Processing 101: Achieve Super Clean Tracks All Day

Mastering mid-side processing is all about having control over your stereo image and creating more dynamic sounds.   Plus, making sure you understand EQ, compression, and other techniques that can completely transform your music production workflow.    As producers, knowing all about mid-side processing (+ tips and techniques) can seriously up your skills and make […]

How to Create Hi-Hat Rolls in 8 Simple Step + Advanced Tips

Epic hi-hat rolls don’t just happen… They require precision, creativity, and a solid understanding of rhythm.    Plus, you’ll need to know the ins and outs of your DAW, automation, and effects processing, too.   This way, your hi-hat rolls will always stand out and keep listeners engaged.    As a music producer, knowing how […]

8+ Spectral Effects That Will Help Your Tracks Be Powerful 

Spectral effects are powerful tools that are all about analyzing and playing around with the frequency spectrum of audio signals.    They can boost your mixes, add unique textures, and create dynamic, show-stopping beats that really capture the attention of your listeners (and keep them hooked).   Plus, spectral effects can help you control the […]