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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 331
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OP
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 331 |
Well I've been trying to tweak my new studio area for a while. It's still too lively, so I'll need to fix. These tracks have the EQ warmed up quite a bit, compared to any of my other tracks. I sort of like it for the time being. I didn't write this song, but I'm asking for production advice. This track has no edits, other than mixing and mastering from the recorder. My room is 10 x 12 with painted sheetrock on the walls and ceiling. Three small windows. Carpet on the floor. No money in the budget. So I tweaked the EQ, hoping that would help... http://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=11093831Please forgive all the noodling. I got carried away! Best wishes, Kevin
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 7,911 Likes: 1
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It sounds pretty good but a bit dead from a mixing standpoint. This is what I hear....
The mandolin sound nice as is but I would separate it more in the stereo field (pan it left) and maybe cut the lows a bit.
The vocal sounds good but lacks a bit of sparkle in the high end. It also could be a little louder in the mix.
The bass could be more prominent but I would EQ the vocal frequencies down and bump the bass frequencies around 50 - 150.
The guitar is not bad but is a bit muddy. Bring it forward for the solo with more volume. EQ the lows down a bit and the highs up.
I know bluegrassers like to stand around one mic (!) but I would take advantage of the stereo field and spread the instruments out a bit so each one stands out. Make the solos and fills soar and lower the strumming a bit to keep it from being muddy.
Hope that helps. Most of the changes I mentioned would be subtle.
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Joined: Dec 2008
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Wow, thanks a lot Colin. The setup I have is pretty basic. I boosted the mids and lows, but it sounds like I may need to balance it out a little. I'm just learning how to use the EQ, so your suggestions are a great help.
I'll try your tips next time out. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
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Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 9,649
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Hey Kevin...
Pretty cool tune and presentation. I always enjoy listening to you...and I'm not a real big Bluegrass fan. Heck, you might convert me before it's all over!
I'd back of the low end on the mandolin and slightly punch the highs on it. I agree with a previous comment about more stereo separation....it would really make the instruments sparkle!!
Super song and sing...loved it!
Al
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Joined: Dec 2008
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Great, Al. I'm gonna try. I had the left and right panned about 1/4. But I did the same thing with vocals. I'll study mixing and maybe try again soon.
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 6,114
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 6,114 |
Hey Kevin, I can't give any technical advice because it sounded good to me.
I love this old bluesy gospel song and even considered recording it myself. I still may do it someday. I first heard the Clarence and Roland White version years ago when I began learning bluegrass and have loved the song ever since. You did the song justice. I really enjoyed it.
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 12,082 Likes: 1
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If something is pretty far off, I might be able to offer suggestions. But not when it's this close - my ears aren't good enough Colin jumped in though - I suspect he is right when he says most changes would be subtle. That's a very cool performance, Kevin - diggin' it here. Scott
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 331
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Thanks, Ben. I heard the Grisman and Rice version, which is great. Then you got me lookin' at Clarence and Roland. Dang, man. Clarence does some crazy guitar riffs. I love it!
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Joined: Dec 2008
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Thanks a lot Scott. Yep, Colin made some very helpful suggestions, because like you say, my ears aren't that good either. Thanks for your encouragement.
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Joined: May 2001
Posts: 5,581
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I hear you concerning the budget and make shift studio Kevin. I share the same limitations. Sounds good and Colin pretty much covered it as far as production is concerned.
Stevie
I'm the only person here who is not unique.
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Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,235
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I can't offer any help with the mix but wanted to say I listened and enjoyed this. I've always liked this tune. The only thing that I'm missing is the harmonies..
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 13,325
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hey Kevin,this sounds good to me.You'll get your home studio down in time.Good luck with your music!
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 331
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Well, Little Stevie, money sure can stand in the way of progress. I finally purchased a bunch of cheap moving blankets and hung them on the walls. So far I think it's a huge improvement. I'll record a song soon & post it so you can see how it turned out. Spent only 70 bucks on the blankets, so not a huge loss if it doesn't work out. But seems great, just jamming in there now.
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