MIC NIX PRODUCTIONS Tips & Guides
Tips & Guides
RECORDING & TRACKING BASICS
TIPS & NOTES FOR RECORDING
The tracking stage sets the foundation for everything that follows. Whether you’re recording at home or in a pro studio, the principles are the same:
- Preparation is everything. A well-rehearsed performance will always beat one that’s out of time or out of tune.
- Play your best. Technology can fix a lot, but it can’t replace the energy of a strong performance.
- Track clean. Record “flat” with minimal effects so the mix and master can shape your sound later.
TIPS FOR GREAT GUITAR RECORDINGS
Here’s a few points to consider when recording guitar(s):
Use fresh strings (slightly played-in is best — brand new ones can be harsh or go out of tune).
Check your electronics and jacks for crackles, pops, or unwanted noise.
Use reliable cables (not necessarily expensive, just in good nick).
Keep your pedalboard tidy and make sure patch leads aren’t noisy.
Think about your signal chain — pedal order affects tone.
Mic’ing an amp? The SM57 is a classic starting point, but placement matters as much as the mic.
TIPS FOR CAPTURING VOCALS
- Make sure the singer is well-rested, hydrated, and comfortable.
- Avoid alcohol and too much caffeine before recording — unless that’s the sound you want.
- Use a treated room or reflection filter, plus a pop filter to control plosives.
- Keep the headphone mix simple and clear to help the singer focus.
- Try different mic positions and distances until the vocal sits right.
- Don’t overdo EQ or compression while tracking. Save the shaping for the mix.
- Add a touch of reverb in the cans for confidence — but record the vocal dry.
TIPS FOR RECORDING DRUMS
Drums are the most challenging (and rewarding) to record. Key points:
- New drum heads are a must — tune them a day before and play them in.
- Bring spares: sticks, a drum key, gaffer tape, and even pillows/blankets for dampening.
- Practice to a click track if the style allows. It makes editing and mixing easier.
- Mic placement is critical — test phase alignment carefully. A small movement can fix more than EQ ever will.
PREPARING FOR THE STUDIO
- Rehearse thoroughly and lock in the arrangement before hitting the studio.
- Record a rough demo to iron out changes ahead of time.
- Plan your tracking order and overdubs so the session runs smoothly.
- Have your engineer/producer sit in on a rehearsal if possible.
- Get your gear ready (fresh strings, drum heads, tuned instruments) before the day.
- Arrive rested and hydrated. Save the big night out for the after-party.
REFERENCE TRACKS
Providing 2–3 reference songs helps us understand your vision for the final sound. Influences matter, but remember:
no two productions are identical. Even if you tracked in Katy Perry’s studio with the same mics and instruments, it
wouldn’t be identical — and that’s a good thing. Your individuality is what makes your music unique.
MASTERING REFERENCES
If you’re sending reference songs for mastering, be clear on which version you’re referencing. A remastered album, for example, can sound very different to its original release in terms of loudness and dynamics. There’s no “right” answer here — it’s about what matches your creative goals.
Final Note: Don’t be afraid to be creative. A unique production is your best path to standing out in today’s musical landscape.
BALANCING MODERN & CLASSIC APPROACHES
Why work with Mike?
Investing in professional mixing, mastering, or production is ultimately an investment
in your creativity. By entrusting the technical and artistic details to Mic Nix
Productions, you free yourself to focus on what matters most — making music. Mike’s
goal is simple: to give every artist the clarity, confidence, and quality they need to
share their music with the world.
Contact Mike today for a confidential chat about your project.
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