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Theory / Technical

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    When Should You Use Oversampling?

    Plug-in Optimisation Strategies

    We explain why aliasing in plug‑ins isn’t always a problem — and why oversampling isn’t always the solution.

    Techniques . Dec 2023
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    Calibrating Your Mixing Setup

    On The Level

    Mixing gets so much easier when your processing chains are configured to deliver the same results in response to the same levels!

    Techniques . Nov 2023
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    Negative Ratio Compression

    Creating Reverse Dynamics Effects

    Turn the ratio up, and a compressor becomes a limiter. Go even further and you enter the world of reverse dynamics — and unique sonic effects.

    Techniques . Nov 2023
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    New Harmonics

    The Art Of Audio Fermentation

    We look at the processes that can add harmonic content to a sound, for subtle warmth or radical transformation.

    Techniques Jul 2023
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    The SOS Audio Test Files | Downloads

    Get your hands on these SOS Audio Test Files which accompany our SOS May 2023 workshop.

    Techniques May 2023
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    The SOS Audio Test Files

    The Test Tones Every Engineer Needs!

    Standard test signals can be incredibly useful when configuring and aligning audio equipment — and we’ve created a set of properly calibrated test files just for you! Read on to find out how to use them and where to find them.

    Techniques May 2023
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    Ian Shepherd On Loudness & Dynamics

    Practical Tips On LUFS Settings For Music Production

    It’s nearly a decade since the LUFS standard for loudness measurement was defined, yet many still seem confused about what it means for music production.

    Techniques Apr 2023
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    Granular Synthesis: A Practical Introduction

    Hardware & Software Tools

    Once the preserve of academic and experimental music, granular synthesis is more accessible than ever and has a lot to offer in all sorts of genres.

    Techniques Nov 2022
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    Colin Cartmell: Making Great Guitar Cab IRs

    Roll Your Own Impulse Responses

    Colin Cartmell’s decades‑long tonequest has led him to create some of the best guitar cabinet IRs out there — so we asked him for advice on how to roll your own.

    Techniques Sep 2022
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    An Introduction To Immersive Audio

    The SOS Authoritative Guide

    Immersive audio has huge creative potential for music production, but it can be hard to get your head around. Here’s the explanation you’ve been waiting for!

    Techniques Jan 2022
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    Proximity Effect

    In Theory And In Practice

    We all know that close miking boosts the low end. But why? New research from DPA Microphones explains that some instruments are more affected by proximity effect than others.

    Techniques Nov 2021
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    Tackling Tone Suck

    Make Guitars Sound Great Again!

    Does your guitar sound dull and lacklustre through your pedalboard? Here’s how to side‑step the tone‑suck trap.

    Techniques Nov 2021
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    Parallel Compression

    The Real Benefits

    Parallel compression is a powerful mixing technique, but it’s often misunderstood. Read on to find out what it really does — and how it can help you make better mixes.

    Techniques Feb 2013
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    Plug-in Modelling: How Industry Experts Do It

    Emulating Hardware In Software

    Have you ever wondered exactly what goes on when classic hardware is recreated in plug-in form? Heres the full story from some of the industrys biggest names.

    Techniques Aug 2010
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    An Introduction To mLAN: Part 1

    A New Interfacing Standard

    A new interfacing standard is just around the corner which can carry digital audio, MIDI, timecode and hard drive communications down a single cable, in addition to the digital video and multimedia signals which the likes of Sony, Apple and others are already sending down it. Paul Wiffen, long an advocate of high-speed digital interfaces, investigates and finds that he may just have a new religion to evangelise.

    Techniques Aug 2000
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    Enhanced CD Format: Part 1

    How To Use It

    Commercial singles and albums are incorporating ever-more-sophisticated interactive audio and visual content, often using the Enhanced CD format. Janet Harniman-Cook starts this two-part feature with a look at how the format is being used by record companies, and the possibilities that are open to independent musicians.

    Techniques Jul 1999
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    The Basics Of Quantising

    Tips, Tricks & Techniques

    Subtle timing nuances play a large part in the feel of much of today's rhythm-based music. Martin Walker bangs the drum about creative use of groovy time-tweaking functions.

    Techniques Mar 1999
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    Ins & Outs Of Gain Structure

    PC Musician

    Setting up your gear for low noise and minimum distortion needn't be a nightmare. Martin Walker gudes you through the process, and shows you how to stand tall, even without headroom.

    Techniques Apr 1998
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    MIDI Basics: Part 5

    Multi-port Interfaces

    Paul White looks at the benefits of using a multi-port MIDI interface.

    Techniques Dec 1995
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    MIDI Basics: Part 4

    Automation With MIDI Controller Information

    Most contemporary sequencers include facilities that make it possible to automate all the key aspects of a MIDI mix, but all too often they remain unused. Paul White explains how to dip your toe in the water without falling in...

    Techniques Nov 1995
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    MIDI Basics: Part 3

    What Are MIDI Messages?

    What are MIDI messages and what do they do?

    Techniques Oct 1995

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