Is a music plug-in subscription right for you?
Virtual instruments, studio effects, and a vast variety of digital tools are becoming available on a subscription basis. Here’s how to figure out what’s right for you. Read the post.
Studio Gear
Posts from the Disc Makers Blog that feature gear reviews and practical how-to advice in using gear in your home studio.
Choosing the right microphone to elevate your productions
Mic selection can help shape the color, mood, and impact of your next song. Here’s advice on how to choose microphones that best fit your music. Read the post.
Guitar intonation: How to recognize and fix tuning issues
Many factors can cause your stringed instrument to have intonation problems, including old strings and fluctuations in weather and humidity. Maintain and protect your instrument to keep your guitar in tune. Read the post.
Dave Smith: The Godfather of MIDI
Music technologist, inventor, and synthesizer creator Dave Smith died on May 31, 2022. His innovations will continue to shape music for years to come. Read the post.
Nine mic placements to record a snare drum in your home studio
Getting a quality drum recording in your home studio requires a space with proper acoustics and mics that are up to the task — and your mic placement goes a long way when you record a snare drum. Read the post.
How to choose the right music instrument for you
In a music instrument marketplace flooded with high-quality options, determine your needs, do your research, and trust your gut. Read the post
Why does my music need mastering?
Home recording is easier and more affordable than ever, which makes the role of mastering ever more important. Here are some objective reasons that make the case for mastering your recordings. Read the post
Recording acoustic guitar: Experiment with mic placement
The mics you use on any instrument in your home studio recording are a major variable in how your recording will sound, but mic placement is a big part of capturing the best tone for your recording. Read the post
The Flying V: The history of an iconic guitar
Since the first production electric guitar rolled out of its plant in 1936, Gibson has crafted some of the industry’s most iconic guitars — from the Les Paul and SG to the Memphis blues classic. But the lore and design of the Flying V and its modernistic siblings hold a special place in the Gibson catalog. Read the post.
Recording saxophone and reed instruments — tips from a veteran producer
So much about recording saxophone and other reed instruments depends on the player, the room, the mics, the style of play, and how the track fits into the song overall. Here are some recording tips from a veteran producer. Read the post.
Recording bass guitar — Tips from a veteran producer
Producer/engineer/studio owner Jon Marc Weiss discusses mics, mic placement, and different techniques for recording a great bass tone for every music genre. Read the post.
Piano miking techniques for the studio and stage
Producer/engineer/studio owner Jon Marc Weiss discusses piano miking techniques on different instruments in different settings to get the tone you need for the situation. Read the post.
How to record a kick drum
Producer/engineer/studio owner Jon Marc Weiss discusses miking techniques when recording a kick drum in your studio. Read the post.
Musician’s insurance Q&A
Music is your passion, and your gear is among your most prized possessions. That’s why buying musician’s insurance may be well worth the investment. Read the post.
Six examples of the Talk Box done right
If you’re looking for inspiration on how to integrate this inventive effects pedal into your own work, check out the following performances of the Talk Box done right. Read More.