Production, Mixing & Sound
Articles on music production for film & TV, mixing techniques, plugins, and the creative process. 305 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.
305 articles
Making Stock Music and Samples to Sell Online
How can I ensure that my stock music and samples are of high quality and appealing to buyers? Stock music and samples have become mainstream in today’s music industry. It makes creating music more convenient and cost-effective, particularly for amateur composers, DJs, or companies needing backg
Producing Chiptune and 8-Bit Video Game-Inspired Music
How can someone without a strong background in music theory begin producing chiptune and 8-bit music? Chiptune, also known as chip music or 8-bit music, is synthesized electronic music produced with the sound chips found in vintage computers, video game consoles, and arcade machines. Thi
Sound Design: How to Make Unique Synth Sounds From Scratch
What are some techniques to layer and texture synth sounds for a more unique sound design? In the wonderful world of music and sound design, synthesizers are an incredibly versatile instrument. They have the ability to create truly unique sounds that range from the mysterious and ethereal to
Creating Cinematic Trailer Music: Tips and Tricks
How does the producer match the mood and tone of the cinematic trailer with the music? The art of creating cinematic trailer music is a critical facet to the complete storytelling experience that filmmakers strive to achieve. The right score can set the tone, build suspense, and drive the e
Top Music Production Software of 2023
Which of the top music production software of 2023 are best suited for beginners, and which are for professionals? As we navigate through the ever-evolving digital world, music production has undergone significant transformations. Nowadays, you don’t need a fully-equipped recording studio t
Engineering Vocals: De-Essing and Compression Tips
How does compression affect the overall sound quality in vocal production? In the world of music production, engineering vocals is a critical process that greatly influences the final sound quality. It’s no secret that perfect vocals can either make or break a song. Two vital techniques used in e
Mixing Rap Vocals: Getting a Clean, Crisp Sound
Are there any specific effects or plugins that can enhance the clarity and crispness of rap vocals during mixing? Practically anyone can lay down a solid beat these days, but truly masterful vocal mixing is something that sets professional production apart from the rest. In rap music, the v
Creating Electronic Music: Essential Gear and Software
What types of music gear and software should beginners consider when starting in electronic music production? Electronic music has steadily risen in popularity over the years. Its distinct beats, captivating melodies, and complex textures have won the hearts of many music lovers worldwide. Bu
Producing Jazz and Blues Music: Rhythms, Solos and Feel
How does one effectively produce rhythms in Jazz and Blues music? Creating enchanting jazz and blues melodies necessitates a profound understanding of the innate rhythms, remarkable solos, and the intrinsic ‘feel’ – three cardinal elements that define jazz and blues. It’s not merely about th
Sound Design for Film Scores: Matching Music to Visuals
How does the process of matching music to visuals differ in sound design for film scores compared to other types of production? The relationship between picture and sound is a crucial aspect of filmmaking, and nowhere is it more vital than in the composition and design of a film’s sc
Producing Soul Music: Capturing Authentic Sound
What role does modern technology play in producing authentic sounding soul music Soul music, with its profound passion and raw emotion, has a unique charm that captivates listeners. It is a genre full of depth and feeling, which requires a certain finesse to produce effectively. This artic
Mixing EDM: Make Your Drops Hit Harder
How much can panning and stereo placement affect the intensity of the drops in my EDM tracks? The Electronic Dance Music (EDM) scene is all about hard-hitting drops that captivate the audience and make the crowd’s heart pulsate along with the beat. Here are some tips on how to make your drops h