Setting up the studio for production
My basic studio hardware setup consists of a Macbook pro, external monitor, two M-audio Bx5 studio monitor speakers, M-audio MIDI keyboard, M-audio usb audio interface and a Novation launchpad mini Midi controller. The monitors are set up so that the sweet spot in my studio is directly central, where I sit. This makes for precise mastering.
The use of an external monitor allows extra on screen space to play about with and also increasing my work flow rate. The monitor is connected to my Macbook pro via the Display port.
Also connected to my Mac is the audio interface. This is where external audio devices are connected to my DAW. This is usually my studio monitors, Headphones and any inputs such as microphones or guitars.
In the back of the interface is two 1/4" jack outputs and a USB port to connect it to the computer. The 1/4" outputs are what connect to the studio monitors from the interface which is connected to the Mac via the USB. The USB allows the transfer of both input and output signals such as the microphone. The interface is then mapped within the DAW of choice so the inputs and outputs are connected to the correct place within the software.
These monitors are essential in I studio set up. These vary a lot form the standard HIFI speakers you'd find on a home system as these have a flat EQ curve. This means that no areas of the EQ spectrum have been boosted like on a cinema system. This is vital for mastering as it gives a true image of the sound which the producer can correct if theres an issue.
The monitor has two inputs which are 1\4" jack, which is the one im currently using due to the connectivity to the interface and a 3 pin XLR input.
Everything which requires a USB in my studio is plugged into a powered USB hub. This reduces the strain on one of my Mac's USB ports and also increases how many ports I have. This then allows me to have my interface, MIDI keyboard, standard keyboard, Launchpad and my hard drive all connected at once.
Everything is then connected into my Mac book pro computer for use.
For the production I will use several software packages. The main digital audio workstation I will be using is the Ableton live 9 suite package. This allows me to create music straight out the box. However some of the sounds within abletons library arn't quite up to my standard so I have many sample packs which ill use to achieve this track. These are mostly drum samples and FX sounds which give my productions its personality.
Here is an example of the sample packs I will use for this project.
Also in this production I will use a VSTI synth plugin from Native Instruments called Massive. This synth has huge capabilities for all kinds of sounds and I mainly use it for basslines, pads and plucks. I also have a large library of preset packs which I tweak to my requirements. The plugin is the directly integrated into Ableton live to the create a sequence.
Here is an example of the preset sample packs for Massive I will be using
The last software package is the effects from fab filter. In this package I mainly use the Pro.Q which is the EQ in this package. It is very precise and has very good quality output. I also use the pro. C which is the compressor in this package which gives very little distortion under a lot of compression this also goes for the pro. L which is the limiter. These are all external VST plugins so i can easily integrate it into Ableton to on effect one or multiple channels.
Safe working practices in the studio
- Make sure I take regular breaks from the studio.
- Work in a well lit space to avoid straining eyes.
- Sit in chair correctly to avoid short term pain in the back, which could lead to long term injurys.
- Make sure all liquids are kept well away from electrical equipment to prevent damage and potential fire.
- Keep monitor volume low to prevent damage to the ears and potential deafness.
http://www.ergonomics.org.uk/standards/
http://www.hse.gov.uk/humanfactors/topics/design.htm
https://www.hfes.org/web/Standards/standards.html
Production process
To start any production I load all my required instruments into the session. This is usually all my separate racks for drums so it is easier to master them. Multiple channels for the massive synth which will power my bass, sub, pads and any other melodies I will have in. The next part will be to load all the require samples im using for the session, this is usually just the drums and FX I load in. Once I have everything prepared i then begin to programme the drums and sequence them into abletons arrangement view. Once the drums have been sorted I then layer a sub bass from massive. From this stage I then start to build the main elements of the track such as the main riff and hooks. These are built around the key I have chosen for the track. For my style of music this is usually a minor key. Once I've finished the creative process of sequencing and arranging the track i then get to work making sure the mix is super tight a neat. I use automation to ad filters on required areas and adding reverb. This makes everything rounded and less sudden when an element of the track drops out. Then finally i master the track to give it it's last 5% sheen. I use the high end quality of fab filter's plugins to get the best quality and most precise mastering. This makes everything balanced and appear loud on as many sound systems as it is possible.
The once I have finished the track I create visuals with my individual branding to present it to my audience. The track is uploaded to social media such as Facebook, Soundcloud and Twitter.
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