I use parallel processing when I like the sound I've already got. I just want more of something. More density. More saturation. More grit.

The more I learnt about mixing, the closer I got to the sound in my head. The tools gave me control. But how far do you really need to go?

Do all DAWs sound the same? Technically yes. But after decades working across Logic, Ableton Live, Cubase and Pro Tools, I've consistently heard something different.

Building a professional plugin collection doesn't have to mean paying full price. Here's the approach that's saved me thousands over the years.

Five mix engineers fundamentally changed the way I think about mixing. This is a personal tribute to the people whose techniques, generosity and way of thinking shaped my approach to music production.

Learn what audio saturation really does, why it sounds different from distortion, and how it makes sounds feel fuller, richer and more alive.

Discover how preamp emulations add saturation, colour and character, helping sounds sit naturally in your mix before EQ and compression.

I've used these five free plugins for years. Each solves a specific problem in my workflow, and I still reach for them today.

Learn how FM synthesis creates metallic basses, glassy chords and digital textures, and why it still sounds unlike any other form of synthesis.

I've used plenty of limiters over the years, but I keep coming back to Brainworx BX Limiter for one reason: the XL control.

Music producers earn by diversifying. Royalties, remixing, sync licensing, teaching, and more – multiple income streams add up. Here's what I've learned over 30 years.

It’s 2026. I'm running Logic on an M2 Max that's in a completely different league to the Power Mac G4 I started on. Yet somehow, I'm still freezing tracks.

Pre-fader metering keeps levels accurate, while pre-fader sends shape depth. Master these DAW techniques for cleaner, precise mixes.

The Avantone Mixcube exposes mix flaws fast. Fix it here, and everything sounds clearer everywhere. The truth hurts—but it works.

I thought ToTape 7 was my go-to for tape saturation—until I tried Machine Head. Smooth, effortless, and musical. This one delivers.

Learn how a repeatable workflow and consistent musical choices can help you build a recognisable sound in music production.

Graphic equalisers encourage you to think less about numbers and more about tonal balance. Learn why fewer choices can lead to better mixes.

Start producing in 2026 with the right beginner electronic music production gear–DAWs, synths, plugins, and more, explained simply.

Bringing my electronic music blog to YouTube! AI-narrated podcasts on mixing, theory & gear—listen, learn & create anywhere! 🚀🎶

Discover the Mixing Field and learn how visualising your mix as a physical space helps you place sounds with greater clarity, depth and intention.