Production, Mixing & Sound
Articles on music production for film & TV, mixing techniques, plugins, and the creative process. 300 articles.
With over 4 million streams as Scott Millien and years of composing for film and TV, I write about what actually works in music production — from mixing techniques and plugin reviews to sound design, mastering workflows, and studio setup. These articles cover DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, plus the gear and creative process behind getting a professional sound. Whether you're producing your first beat or refining your mix bus chain, you'll find honest opinions backed by hands-on experience.
300 articles
Mixing Hard Rock: Guitars, Vocals and Live Energy
Are there any specific audio plugins or tools that work best for producing hard rock music Hard rock has been a cornerstone of music since it exploded onto the scene in the late 1960s. Characterized by heavily distorted guitars, harmonious vocals, and vivacious live performances full of energ
Music Production Tips
Can you share some effective music production techniques for better track layering? Regardless of whether you are a professional music producer or a beginner just getting your feet wet, constantly honing your skills and picking up new tips is essential to progressing in this dynamic field. In t
Creating Riser FX for Big Buildups and Drops
How can riser FX be manipulated or modified to create a unique sound for big buildups and drops in music production Good music is a journey, with its highs and lows, excitement and suspense all perfectly woven together to form a beautiful story. In electronic music, riser effects (FX) play a
Producing Glitch Hop: Digital Stutters, Skips and Slices
What are some tips for maintaining musicality and dynamics while producing the stutter, skip, and slice effects in Glitch Hop Emerging from the melting pot of electronic music genres, Glitch Hop has found its place in the hearts of musicians and listeners looking for a refreshing, unique sound. Fi
Mixing Punk Rock: Keeping Things Raw and Energetic
How does the process of mixing punk rock differ from other genres in terms of maintaining energy levels? When it comes to mixing punk rock, the goal isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about capturing the raw intensity, vibrance, and spontaneity of the genre. Punk rock is renowned for its raw a
Mixing Lo-Fi Hip Hop: Gritty Sounds and Textures
How can one balance the clarity of a track while incorporating gritty sounds and textures in Lo-Fi Hip Hop? Lo-Fi Hip Hop, a micro-genre born from old school Hip Hop, has carved an essential niche in the modern music era. Defined by its use of low fidelity sounds and textures, this retro-styl
Mastering for General Listening: Balanced EQ for Speakers and Headphones
What are the key factors to consider when aiming for a balanced EQ? Whether you’re a music producer, sound engineer, or simply an enthusiastic audiophile looking to optimize your listening experience, understanding how to master for general listening is essential. At the core of a pleasing and
Producing Classical Music: Orchestral Instruments and Arrangements
Can you provide some examples of classical music pieces that showcase unique production and orchestral arrangements? Classical music is a timeless genre that has spanned across centuries, making it one of the cornerstone genres of music. The beauty, depth, and complexity of classical music ca
Crafting Killer Basslines for Dance Music
How important is it for a music producer to understand music theory when creating captivating basslines in dance music? In the world of dance music, the beat might hit the audience first, but it’s the bassline that really makes them move. A killer bassline can elevate a decent track int
Best new mixing plugins, effects and VST instruments out this week
Are there any recently released VST instruments that surpass previously available options? Best New Mixing Plugins, Effects, and VST Instruments Out This Week We live in an era marked by technological advancements; this includes the world of music production. An array of innovative mixing plugins
Mixing World Music: Blending Global Instruments and Styles
Are there any specific global music styles that are particularly difficult or unique to work with in the mixing process The world is indeed a global village. Today, music is not just a medium for entertainment, but an important means of cultural exchange. Music from different parts of the worl