Music Production Podcast for DIY Music Producers and Artists | Inside The Mix

• #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!!

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• #189: Could Re-Releasing Music Boost Your Streams? A Guide to the Waterfall Release Strategy

  Send me a messageEver released a song only to watch it vanish into the streaming void after a brief moment in the spotlight? In this episode of Inside The Mix, Marc Matthews delves into the waterfall release strategy, a strategic approach to music distribution that aims to revolutionise how artists share their work and maximise their reach.The core concept of the waterfall release strategy is explained: instead of releasing singles in isolation or dropping an entire album at once, artists gradually build momentum by rereleasing previous tracks alongside each new single. The episode outlines how an artist might start with one song, then release it with the second single, followed by packaging all three tracks together for the third release, continuing this pattern until the complete EP or album is unveiled.Marc provides a practical walkthrough of how to implement this strategy using DistroKid, although he notes that the underlying principles are applicable across various distribution platforms. He emphasises the critical importance of maintaining identical metadata and audio files for re-released tracks on DistroKid, the correct and consistent use of ISRC codes, and offers practical tips to help artists avoid common pitfalls when using DistroKid for a waterfall release.Sharing his own experiences, Marc discusses testing this approach with his recent releases, "Waves," "Separation," and "Four Minute Warning." He highlights the noticeable increase in streams for his earlier tracks, demonstrating a tangible benefit of the strategy.The episode explores the potential advantages of the waterfall strategy for artists looking to maximise their music's reach and lifespan, particularly on Spotify. Marc discusses how this method can keep an artist's catalog fresh in listeners' minds, potentially trigger algorithmic favour through consistent releases, and create multiple opportunities for music discovery on platforms like Spotify. He poses the question of how a waterfall release can help boost Spotify streams and keep back catalogs relevant.While acknowledging it's not a guaranteed solution, Marc positions the waterfall strategy as a compelling option for producers and artists aiming for sustained traction rather than a fleeting moment in the spotlight. He encourages listeners to consider if this approach, particularly when implemented through DistroKid, could transform their next music release and help them effectively utilise the waterfall release strategy on Spotify.Links mentioned in this episode:Listen to 4 Minute WarningDistroKidMy Journey to 10,000 Monthly Listeners - What Actually Works?How to Release Music and Artist Strategies for Engagement and Success in 2024 with Jay GilbertDon't Release Another Song Without Reading this First: A Guide 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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