Questions?!

Welcome back to the Producers Corner. This is John from djprosperity.com. I wanted to respond to some FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) that artists ask all the time. As an Audio Engineer I feel it's important to share the knowledge in order to help others. It's a cyclical part of life, each one teach one, iron sharpens iron, one hand washes the other and together they both wash the face, you get the gist of it. So without further ado here are 5 FAQ's and answers:

Q: What should I look for or expect in a studio?

A: Great question! The fact is that there are many different studios out there and each have their own appeal. When choosing a studio don't focus on rates, aesthetics, gear, etc. Sure those things factor into the equation but the main thing you should look for is the quality of the work they perform. Any studio can post their client list (we've worked with so-and-so...) and that's great but really it boils down to how does their work sound? Ask for samples of their work, that is the key!


Q: I have a Home Studio, which software should I use to record?

A: This question should probably be number one on the FAQ's list as it's the most often asked question. As a former Professional Sales Engineer with Sweetwater Sounds, I will tell you what I used to tell my customers: whichever one you are most comfortable using. Sure ProTools is the Industry standard DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) but there are several excellent ones out there: Cubase, Sonar, Studio One, Logic, FL Studio, Ableton, the list goes on and on. So whichever you are most familiar with or most comfortable with is the RIGHT CHOICE for YOU!


Q: Which microphone do you recommend?

A: What microphone you use is not only a preferential choice but it is also one that is based on the source that you are recording. For instance I have a selection of microphones ranging in price, specs, and types. Some of my microphones are tubed, some are multi-patterned, and some are compact with a smaller footprint. Each one has its own distinct sonic characteristics that it imparts on the recording. So some of them I use for recording vocals while others I will go to for recording instruments. If there was a "magic" microphone out there then there wouldn't be so many microphones out there.


Q: Why do I need my music mixed if it sounds good to me?

A: Because all tracks don't have equal amplitude and they're not all the same frequencies, everything has its own place sonically in the frequency spectrum. A proper mix will not only do this but will help your music compete in a very tough industry.


Q: How long have you been recording, mixing, and mastering?

A: I have been in and out of the studio since 1997 and have over 16 years of experience. However I have only been doing it professionally for 5 years now. I graduated in 2008 with a 3.75 GPA from the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences and began working as an Independent Audio Engineer. In 2010 I started my website: www.djprosperity.com and began grow my client list and it is still expanding today!


So, what questions do YOU have for me? Post your questions in the comment section and I will answer them in an upcoming post!


As always, please feel free to visit my website:www.djprosperity.com (there you can click the icons to follow me on facebook, twitter, etc.) and sign the Guestbook on the "Contact" page. I would be more than happy to help you with any of your audio needs that you might have. God Bless and see you next post!

About Me:

I am a certified Audio Engineer and owner/operator of a website called djprosperity.com. I received my education in Audio Recording and Production from The Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in Tempe Arizona. I have worked for Sweetwater Sounds in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as a Sales Engineer after interning in their recording studios. If you'd like to know more about me or would like my help with your projects, please visit my website and contact me.