#194: I Asked a Pro Vocal Coach How to Prepare a Singer for a Recording Session (ft. Rich Bozic)
Send me a messageCapturing great vocal takes starts long before hitting record. In this episode, vocal coach and recording expert Rich Bozic shares how to record professional vocals in a home studio, with practical tips that work whether you’re using high-end gear or a modest setup.We cover how to prepare a singer for a vocal session, from effective pre-session communication to creating a stress-free environment. Rich also explains how to warm up your voice before recording, sharing warm-up routines that improve tone, prevent fatigue, and help artists deliver their best performances.If you’ve ever asked, “What are common mistakes to avoid when recording vocals?”, this episode delivers. Rich highlights issues like ignoring vocal fatigue, poor headphone mixes, and misreading body language—mistakes that sabotage sessions before you realise it. You’ll also learn how to get studio-quality vocals on a budget, with guidance on microphone choice, headphone monitoring, and remote recording setups.Whether you produce your vocals or work with singers, this conversation will sharpen your skills, improve session outcomes, and help you capture confident, pro-level performances—no matter your studio size or budget.Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Face Your EarsFollow RJB Music ProductionFollow Bozic Voice StudioListen to #191 (ft. Justin Hochella) Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!
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#193: I Asked a Pro If You Really Need a Mastering Engineer - And If You Can DIY (feat. Mike Marsh)
Send me a messageAcclaimed mastering engineer Mike Marsh demystifies the final stage of music production in this insightful episode. With a career spanning over three decades, working with artists like Björk, The Chemical Brothers, and Depeche Mode, Mike offers unparalleled expertise on what music mastering is and why it's important.He addresses the common misconception of the "fix it in mastering" mindset, explaining that mastering cannot correct issues that should have been resolved during mixing. This highlights the critical difference between mixing and mastering in music.Mike shares practical music mastering tips for independent artists, emphasising the importance of understanding your listening environment over relying solely on expensive equipment. He notes that some of the best mixes he's received came from modest home studios, underscoring that quality results are achievable without high-end gear.The discussion also covers common mastering mistakes to avoid, such as over-compression and neglecting proper monitoring. Mike weighs in on the debate: Do you need a mastering engineer or can you DIY? He suggests that while self-mastering is possible, a professional's fresh perspective often enhances the final product.Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting, this episode provides valuable insights to elevate your music's final polish.Links mentioned in this episode:Listen to Half-LifeFollow Mike Marsh Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!
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#192: The Three C’s That Helped Us Grow as Independent Music Producers
Send me a messageHow do you market yourself effectively as an independent music producer, especially when working across multiple genres? In this episode, Marc Matthews and Tim Benson (Aisle9) unpack this challenge with real-world advice and music promotion tips for independent producers looking to stand out.They break down “The Three C’s” framework—Collaboration, Community, and Consistency—as the cornerstone of how music producers can build a fanbase without burning out or blending in. Instead of trying to dominate every genre or every platform, they emphasise niche focus, strategic partnerships, and audience-first content.Want to know how building an audience for your music production can be easier with less content? Marc shares how narrowing his social presence helped grow his podcast faster by creating more meaningful work. This episode also explores effective branding for music producers through personal storytelling, local flavour (yes, there’s a West Country cider and ice cream tale), and actionable marketing moves you can implement today.Whether you're an emerging talent or refining your game, this is a must-listen for independent producers ready to grow without losing creative identity.Links mentioned in this episode:Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky person will win a Starbucks voucher each month!Listen to Lost and FoundListen to Liquid BlueListen to Half-Life Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!
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#191: Every Logic Pro User Should Know These Hidden Tools—Do You? (ft. Justin Hochella)
Send me a messageAre you underusing the tools you already own in Logic Pro? In this episode of Inside the Mix, Marc Matthews is joined by Justin Hochella, producer and co-host of Face Your Ears, to uncover Logic Pro’s native power that most producers overlook. We answer the questions every independent artist should be asking: What are the essential Logic Pro keyboard shortcuts for beginners? What are the best shortcuts for speeding up workflow in Logic Pro? How do I use Logic Pro shortcuts for automation and MIDI editing?From game-changing tips like the Z and V keys to hidden sound isolation plugins, we dive deep into Logic’s workflow-enhancing features. Justin also shares how built-in tools like Studio Piano and Sculpture rival paid plugins—offering pro-quality sound without extra cost. Wondering how to use built-in Logic Pro plugins effectively or which plugins every beginner should explore? This episode is your guide.Plus, learn how to unlock Logic’s 39,000+ Apple Loops and sound packs—packed with vintage drum machines and high-end textures hiding in plain sight.If you’re producing in Logic, this is your shortcut to working faster and smarter—with the tools you already have.Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Face Your EarsFollow RJB Music ProductionFollow Man Made Random Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!
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#190: Ever Wonder Why Your Effects Sound "Off"? Unlocking Pre-Fader and Post-Fader Sends
Send me a messageEver wondered how the pros achieve those perfectly balanced mixes and immersive effects? Marc Matthews and Tim Benson (Aisle9) explain the difference between pre-fader and post-fader sends, the key to balanced mixes and immersive effects. Many overlook this fundamental signal flow, yet mastering it is the secret to professional sound.Discover when to use pre-fader sends (ideal for independent monitor mixes) and when to use post-fader sends (perfect for lush reverb and delay - learn how to use post-fader sends for reverb and delay!). Understand how pre-fader sends work (signal before the fader) and how post-fader sends work (proportional to the fader).Explore why you'd use a pre-fader send for effects and the advantages of using pre-fader sends (consistent monitor levels, unique effects) and post-fader sends (natural effect balances). We'll also touch on how pre/post-fader sends affect aux tracks/returns and when to use pre-fader sends for parallel processing. Join Marc and Tim as they demonstrate that there are no rigid rules, only a universe of creative possibilities waiting to be unlocked.Links mentioned in this episode:Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky question will win a Starbucks voucher each month! Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!
Om Music Production Podcast for DIY Music Producers and Artists | Inside The Mix
If you're searching for answers on topics such as: what is mixing in music, how I can learn to mix music, how to start music production, how can I get better at music production, what is music production, or maybe how to get into the music industry or even just how to release music. Either way, you’re my kind of person and there's something in this podcast for you! I'm Marc Matthews and I host the Inside The Mix Podcast. It's the ultimate serial podcast for music production and mixing enthusiasts. Say goodbye to generic interviews and tutorials, because I'm taking things to the next level. Join me as I feature listeners in round table music critiques and offer exclusive one-to-one coaching sessions to kickstart your music production and mixing journey. Get ready for cutting-edge music production tutorials and insightful interviews with Grammy Award-winning audio professionals like Dom Morley (Adele) and Mike Exeter (Black Sabbath). If you're passionate about music production and mixing like me, Inside The Mix is the podcast you can't afford to miss!Start with this audience-favourite episode: #175: What's the Secret to Mixing Without Muddiness? Achieving Clarity and Dynamics in a MixThanks for listening!
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