The rise in popularity of work-from-home studios has significantly impacted the music production landscape in recent years, driven by the increasing availability of tools and technology.
This growth has led to the emergence of mobile recording rigs, making it possible to record full band performances anywhere.
While one might anticipate a wealth of high-quality music, the reality is a blend of both outstanding and subpar productions.
Challenges of Bedroom Music Production
The surge in bedroom producers has also contributed to an increase in lower quality and unprofessional music. Often, we encounter overly compressed music with minimal musicality. In other instances, potentially exceptional music lacks the polish that professional music offers. This is why mastering engineers urge aspiring producers to acquire and develop professional music production skills. PreSonus Speaker Monitors
Essential Music Production Skills
Key music production skills include understanding the sound frequency spectrum, which aids in refining mixing abilities. Acoustic treatment of the mixing space is crucial, as untreated spaces can lead to distorted perceptions of music playing through speakers. Companies like Acoustimac provide affordable acoustic solutions for studios of all sizes.
Balancing Digital and Analog Sounds
Digital music production is here to stay, but it’s essential to recognize that an overly digital sound may seem dull and lifeless compared to analog-based music. High-quality Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-Analog (A/D D/A) converters can help preserve an instrument’s resolution during recording. Microphone selection and placement are equally vital, as excellent mixes begin with exceptional recordings. Mackie Premium Analog Mixer
Mastering Digital Audio Workstations and VST Plugins
Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) serve as the central hub for recording, editing, and pre-mastering, streamlining the entire music production process. Virtual Studio Technology ( VST TranceEngine from FeelYourSound - Today we review TranceEngine from FeelYourSound TranceEngine VST and AU plug-in (feelyoursound.com) With this impressive VST plugin you can create Trance sequences to be included in your Trance masterpiece and you will create stunning tracks like my Dream a Trance Music To create the first sequences for your track it's very easy. Let's start from… ) plugins play a crucial role in shaping mixes into pre-mastered tracks, blending instruments to achieve a cohesive and harmonious sound. However, it is important to note that not all VSTs are created equal; higher-end VSTs effectively replicate the sound and character of the analog equipment they emulate, providing a more authentic and high-quality output. Therefore, investing in reliable and professional-grade VST plugins can significantly enhance your music production experience, leading to improved sonic results and greater creative possibilities.
Investing in the Right Tools and Skills for Success
In conclusion, investing in the right tools and dedicating time to learn professional skills can set you on an incredible journey towards producing high-quality music in your home studio. Companies like Mercenary and Vintage King offer fantastic deals on essential equipment, while Antress Modern Plug-Ins provides a bundle of top-notch, free VSTs. With determination and dedication, you can elevate your music production to new heights.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
I forget exactly who said it recently but I read an interview in which they argued that modern music’s overall quality has gone way down despite the fact there’s so much more of it, citing that because it was more difficult to finance a record in the 60’s and the only way to record was in an expensive pro studio, the music had to be the best available to get that recording contract and make it to the studio.
There’s certainly some truth to that, but he lost a lot of credibility when he basically said that modern music is rubbish compared to that of the 60’s and 70’s.
Also, Acousticimac looks like a good resource for up and coming music producers which I was not familiar with.
yeah, probably the music was the “best” for that period, but compared to modern music, there are old songs that seem ridiculous. I love old music, but I can’t say it’s the top of the top. Actual music is good as well and there are impressive pieces.
I agree music quality has degraded over the years due to home recording studio. It’s fascinating to read about the analog to digital conversation and microphone placement. Would it be wise to go back to the old fashion ways of recording music if you had access to all the equipment?
Even though several years have passed since Paul left this comment on my post, his insights remain as relevant as ever in today’s constantly evolving music landscape.
Paul referenced an interview where it was argued that modern music’s overall quality has decreased, despite the abundance of new music being produced. The interviewee attributed this to the fact that, in the 60s, financing a record and recording in a professional studio were much more challenging, thus compelling musicians to create the best possible music in order to secure a recording contract and studio time.
While there may be some truth to this perspective, it’s important to acknowledge that the music industry has undergone significant changes since the 60s and 70s. Technological advancements have made it much easier for musicians to produce and distribute their music independently, leading to an explosion of creativity and diversity in the music world. This increased accessibility has allowed artists from various backgrounds and genres to reach a wider audience, breaking down barriers that may have existed in the past.
It’s worth noting that the interviewee’s statement that “modern music is rubbish compared to that of the 60s and 70s” is a subjective opinion, and not an absolute truth. While there might be some nostalgia for the music of the past, it’s crucial to recognize the countless talented musicians currently creating innovative and high-quality music.
The modern music landscape has provided a platform for a multitude of voices and styles, which, in turn, has enriched our collective musical experience.
In conclusion, though Paul’s comment stems from an older post, the debate surrounding the quality of modern music compared to that of the 60s and 70s remains a pertinent discussion today. Ultimately, what we must celebrate is the diverse array of music available to us, as it allows for a richer, more inclusive, and evolving cultural experience.