SoundGym Blog

SoundGym Hero: Henry Do

A passionate music lover turned dedicated sound enthusiast, blending his early pop-rock inspirations with a deep curiosity for audio technology and ear training. From dreaming of becoming a guitarist like Slash to pursuing live sound engineering with relentless focus, he`s now shaping his journey through self-study, SoundGym practice, and hands-on work. Henry Do is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Daniel Carlton(Astrofreq)

A vibrant guitarist, fearless experimenter, and dedicated sound explorer, merging his Van Halen-inspired spark with a passion for innovative gear and immersive live performances, crafting a unique identity as both a guitar virtuoso and sonic architect. Daniel Carlton is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Klaudia & Matthias

A classically trained duo, merging their background in piano and violin with a fearless dive into the world of EDM, crafting a unique identity as both live performance maestros and innovative electronic producers. Klaudia & Matthias are this month's SoundGym Heroes!

Music Spot: Andreas Kaufmann – Get On With it

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on a SoundGym member by reviewing one of their releases for our Music Spot feature. This time around we are taking an in-depth look at Andreas Kaufmann`s latest offering.

Music Spot: Jazzy Tea – The Glitch Coast Blues

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on a SoundGym member by reviewing one of their releases for our Music Spot feature. This time around we are checking out Jazzy Tea`s recent single, `The Glitch Coast Blues`.

SoundGym Hero: Olivier Arntz

A seasoned DJ, producer, and founder of Antigoon Records, merging his passion for music with his expertise in SEO and business automation, crafting a unique identity as both an artist and label owner. Olivier Arntz is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Music Spot: DJ Tomban - Forgotten

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on a SoundGym member by reviewing one of their releases for our Music Spot feature. This time around we are taking an in-depth look at Tomasz Banaczkowski`s latest album as DJ Tomban, Forgotten.

SoundGym Hero: Frans Rewijk

A passionate guitarist turned producer, balances his love for music with a talent for DIY projects, a part-time job, and family life, all while running his own record label, Woodshed Records. Frans Rewijk is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Diana Chow

Blends her classical piano roots with innovative production, and when she's not making music, she's competing in tennis leagues. Diana Chow is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Anton Shamrilo

A musician and data engineer who balances his love for music, technology, and creative projects like 3D printing and photography. Anton Shamrilo is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Michel Lafontaine

a lifelong musician and teacher who combines his passion for music with innovative technology, creating virtual instruments and MIDI controllers while inspiring others with his dedication to sound exploration and creativity. Michel Lafontaine is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Ygor Sobrinho

Balancing a passion for electronic music with sports, Muay Thai, and motorbike riding, drawing inspiration from artists like DeadMau5. Ygor Sobrinho is this month's SoundsGym Hero!

Music Spot: Nagne – Can You Run

A modern classic from South Korean singer-songwriter blending '60s and '70s influences with raw emotion and timeless songwriting.

Music Spot: Mya Luv - Elevation of Luv (Vol.II)

Montreal-based singer-songwriter and producer that wrote and produced this new album in its entirety.

Music Spot: Curtis Fornadley - A Half Step Away

Fornadley has delivered an album that is primarily guitar-driven; something that is somewhat unusual in 2024, and it therefore provides a refreshing listen.

SoundGym Hero: Michał Wysocki

A bass with a passion for RPG games, yoga, and military history, balances his love for music with his diverse interests, drawing inspiration from Maynard James Keenan and creating alongside his girlfriend in their project Juno Willo. Uzurpan is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Music Spot: undrwatertape - adrenaline

Austrian Producer Crafts a Fusion of Vintage Pop and Modern Synthwave

Music Spot: Fuji Gateway - Tuesdays, Am I Right?

New Single Offers a Poignant Reflection on Life's Struggles

SoundGym Hero: Francesco Minotti

A Sound engineer with a Master's in Sound Technology, currently working at Consorzio ZdB and teaching high school. Passionate about music, MMA, whiskey tasting, using their diverse interests to enrich their creative and technical endeavors in the music industry. Francesco Minotti is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Analena Vater

Originally from Germany and now in Belgium, crafts original music, drawing inspiration from diverse experiences and a passion for traditional artisanal work. Analena Vater is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Nicolae Orengo

A drummer turned music producer with a rich background in rock, blues, and R&B, Nicolae Orengo loves D&D and capoeira. He aims to blend musical skills in new solo projects. Nicolae Orengo is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Music Spot: Voidpiercer - The Isolation Years

Post-hardcore meets '80s synth pop in emotional, authentic album

Music Spot: Maneli Jamal - The Traveller

This solo acoustic guitar album features wide-ranging influences and incendiary playing

SoundGym Hero: Kevin Koelzer

A classically trained guitarist and audio engineer from Virginia Beach, with a focus on mixing and mastering. Kevin Koelzer Is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Roi Reggev

a passionate music producer and jazz guitarist, loves outdoor sports, and seeks to create soulful, genuine music. Roi Reggev is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Fernando Peiter

Brazilian actor and audio technician with a passion for music who aspires to inspire and create positive experiences through his electronic music endeavors while embracing diverse hobbies and interests. Fernando Peiter is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Ericson Allibang

Songwriter, audio engineer, and podcast producer hailing from the Philippines with a diverse background in music and a passion for tinkering, sciences, and fiction. Ericson Allibang is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Ashley Fredette

An artist who combines their talents as a singer, songwriter, and producer, fueled by a deep passion for crafting a contemporary yet vintage-inspired. Currently from Winnipeg, Canada. Ashley Fredette is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Music Spot: Silüet - Senin Olmak

In this review we take a look at SoundGym member Caner Keskin`s band, Silüet and their single `Senin Olmak`. A Funky, fuzzy sonic alchemy from Istanbul

Music Spot: Simone and the Bobbing Heads - I'll Wear Something Nice

In this review we take a look at SoundGym member Hans Mulders` soul pop band Simone and the Bobbing Heads and their EP I'll Wear Something Nice.

Music Spot: Astroshein - Imagine

Shein is an astronomer and producer based in Kostroma in Russia and he explains that his two interests often bleed together, giving his music a `space vibe`.

Music Spot: Emerger - Bloom

An album of sparkling, synth-led indie-pop gems from the South African duo

'LET'S MAKE A SONG': Collaborate and Contribute your Unique Sound

We're thrilled to announce a new and exciting space that's come to life on our platform - 'LET'S MAKE A SONG'.

Music Spot: Eight Lives Down - Humans

In this review, we cast our eye over SoundGym member Paul Allain`s band Eight Lives Down and their album Humans.

SoundGym Hero: Alexandra Escalle

Self-employed voice-over, sound technician, and musician. Currently from Poitiers, France. This month's SoundGym Hero is Alexandra Escalle

SoundGym Hero: Andrew Tinker

Record Producer, Mastering Engineer, and Father of Twins. Currently from Los Angeles, California. Andrew Tinker is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Holger Dehnhardt

Music producer, software developer, and project manager. Currently from Berlin, Germany, Holger Dehnhardt is this month's SoundGym Hero!

How to Self-Release Music? A Guide for Independent Artists

You`ve got a great song idea. Unfortunately, you`re not sure how to take it all the way across the finish line to share it with the world. Sound familiar?

SoundGym Hero: Kevin Krouglow

Composer and multi-instrumentalist with a focus on Film, TV, and Games. Currently from Toronto, Canada. Kevin Krouglow is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Dynamic Mastering: Balancing Loudness and Dynamics in Your Tracks

In this article, we will explore the problem of over-compression, the basics of dynamic range, techniques for dynamic mastering, balancing levels with automation, and the importance of monitoring.

Music Spot: Christine Sako - Sediments

An understated but devastating pop gem by Christine Sako

Music Spot: M.D.MAZIN - Neon Light

A single with its heart in the shadows and its feet on the dance floor by M.D.MAZIN

What is Gain in Audio? A Beginner's Guide to Signal Processing

If you're just starting with music production, you may have heard terminology like gain, level, and loudness used to describe signal strength. But aren't they all the same? What does each one mean, and how do they affect your workflow?

Music Spot: XIN - Flow

This time around, we`re looking at the debut single from alternative artist, XIN, an Israeli Songwriter Weaves Emotional Tapestry with New Single

How to Make Music: A Beginner's Guide to Music Production

How to Make Music: A Beginner's Guide to Music Production

SoundGym Hero: Kevin Dyczek

Guitarist, Songwriter, working as a ghost producer and mixing & mastering engineercurantly from Leipzig, Germany. Kevin Dyczek is this month's SoundGym hero!

What is an Audio Interface? What Does It Do and Why You Need One

The audio interface is the backbone of any cutting-edge studio, be it a home setup or a full-fledged recording and mixing studio. In this article, we'll discuss what to look for in an audio interface, why different people require different features, and how to determine which interface is best for you.

How to Mix Drums: A 7-Step Essential Guide for Beginners and Pros

Mixing drums is a complex process, but if you follow our step-by-step guide, you will be well on your way to creating a professional drum sound.

Music Spot: Jesse Joy - Warmth

A rich and intricate acoustic folk instrumental track from Jesse Joy, our Music spot!

Best AI Tools for Musicians: Keep Up With The Times and Unlock Your Creative Potential

Modern AI tools may help you write faster, mix better, and perfect your work more efficiently if you learn to use them to your advantage in the studio, and in this article, we explore the best AI tools available for music production and creation.

SoundGym Hero: Liza Bec

Music Composer and Producer, part of the Spiral Dial Podcast. Currently from the south of the river of London. Liza Bec is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Andi Herzog

Music producer and Audio engineer specializing in genres of Hip Hop and R&B, currently from a small town in the south of Germany, Andi Herzog is this month's SoundGym Hero!

What is A Synthesizer? A Beginner's Guide to Audio Synthesis

Explore the world of synthesizers and how they can enhance your music production with our comprehensive beginner's guide covering the history, types, components, and various uses of these electronic instruments

What is Dynamic Range in Audio? How Loudness, Compression, and Limiting Affect Your Mix

In this article we explain what dynamic range is and why it`s important. We then delve into some of the practicalities of this subject – explaining why an understanding of this topic will help you to craft better mixes and masters.

SoundGym Hero: Gerrit `Gerry` Matthee

Producer, Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist, and Mixing Engineer, currently from Cape Town, South Africa. Gerrit `Gerry` Matthee is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Ben Dabson

Multi instrumental, Music producer, and part of the band Codewalkers, currently from South East Wales, United Kingdom. Ben Dabson is this month's SoundGym Hero!

How to Make Beats: The Beginner's Guide to Beat Making

In this article, we'll break down what you need to start making beats and share a couple of expert beat-making tips to assist you on your musical journey.

The High-Pass Filter: What it Does and How it Can Clean up Your Mix

In this article I`ll explain what a high-pass filter is, show where they`re used most often and suggest some ways to use them in your own music.

SoundGym Hero: Maya Belgnaoui

Singer-songwriter and Music producer with a Passion for personal growth and spirituality, currently from Montreal, Canada. Maya Belgnaoui is this month's SoundGym Hero!

What is Distortion in Music? How to Add Character and Grit to Your Mix

What exactly is distortion? When do you want it and when do you want to avoid it? In this article, I'll dissect how the term is commonly used and offer suggestions for using distortion in your music.

How to Use Dynamic EQ: Level up Your Mix Like a Pro

In this article will go deep into what a dynamic EQ is and how it works before explaining how to use it effectively in your mixes. We`ll even recommend a few great dynamic EQ plugins for you – including one that you can get for free.

Multiband Compressor: What it is and How to Use it for a Better Mix

In this article, I`ll go through what is multiband compression, how it works, and recommend some of the best multiband compressors on the market.

Psychoacoustics: How Your Brain Influence's Your Mix

Although psychoacoustics may seem like an obscure scientific concept, it affects every musical experience. IIn this article we will go through the fundamentals of psychoacoustics and explain why they're essential to your mix.

Music Spot: Twin Flowers – Sweet Tooth

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This time we focus on James Toohey aka Twin Flowers` recent single, `Sweet Tooth`.

Music Spot: Codewalkers - Preternatural

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This time we focus on `Preternatural` by Codewalkers

SoundGym Hero: Pierre Marmignon

IT Technology Strategist, former startup founder, and a Musician at Hear from France, Pierre Marmignon, AKA Max M is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Music Spot: Cyrano – White Wine

From time to time, we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This time we focus on `White Wine`, by Cyrano.

Parallel Compression: What It Is And How To Use It

By the moment this article is finished, you'll be able to apply parallel compression processing technique using the DAW's built-in capabilities.

Mixing in Mono: The Secret to a Masterful Mix

Embrace the power of mono mixing and unlock the potential to transform your mixes from good to unforgettable.

Sidechain Compression: What is it and How to Use it to Level Up Your Mix

In this article, we explain everything you`ll need to know to start implementing sidechain compression in your mixes

What is a De-esser? The Most Powerful Secret for Mixing Amazing Vocals

What are de-essers actually used for, and how do they work? I'll this article. We will go over everything you need to know about de-essers to mix better-sounding vocals.

SoundGym Hero: Zak `Thready` Threadgill

Lead engineer for Auction House Beats with a passion for poker, currently from Minneapolis, MN, Zak `Thready` Threadgill is this months SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Lukasz Sobczyk

Professional drummer, multi-instrumentalist, and recording musician, currently from Cracow, Lesser Poland. Lukasz Sobczyk is this months SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Martin Lechner

Self-taught producer, electrician with a passion for black and white photography, currently from Bavaria in Germany, Martin Lechner is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Audio Effects: The Tools You Need to Craft Your Sound

In this article, we will explain what audio effects are, why we need them and what they are used for. We`ll guide you through the most common types of audio effects, explaining how you can use them to enhance your music.

SoundGym Hero: Amir Hossein Nabavi

Music Producer, Mixer, Educator, and Independent Artist, Currently from Shiraz, Iran. Amir Hossein Nabavi aka `Aviii` is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Dithering in Audio: Everything You Need to Know

Dithering can be a frightening topic. However, correctly applying dither is incredibly simple and straightforward. You'll never have to worry about whether or not to dither again once you understand what you're doing and why you're doing it.

Gain Staging: What It Is And How It Can Level Up Your Mix

Gain staging is a subject that is rarely discussed by novice producers, but it`s a vital part of a pro-level mix.

Music Spot: Vanessa Ondine – Your Void

This time in our music spot section, we focus on `Your Void` a 2020 album by Vanessa Ondine.

SoundGym Hero: Leon Vissers

Dj, Music Producer, and Father of two, Currently from the Netherlands. Leon Vissers AKA "Le One Siverss" is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Daniel Vasilyev

Songwriter with a sleight of hand and a passion for exploring the world in all dimensions, Currently from St. Petersburg, Russia. Daniel Vasilyev is this month's SoundGym Hero.

What is a DAW: A Beginner's Guide to Digital Audio Workstations (2024)

We`ll explain what a DAW is, how it works, and what you can do with it. We`ll also offer advice tailored to beginners on what to look out for in your perfect DAW.

Music Spot: SiMitrē - META

Periodically we shine a spotlight on a SoundGym member by reviewing one of their releases n our Music Spot section. in this article, we focus on Alonzo Edwards AKA `META` by SiMitrē.

What is Mastering in Music? Uncovering the Art and History of Audio Mastering

By the time you finish reading this piece, you should understand what mastering is, how it differs from mixing and how the process has developed through history.

SoundGym Hero: Ralph Stokes

Guitarist, Mixing Engineer, and Music Producer from Newcastle, England. Ralph Stokes is this month's SoundGym Hero!

How to Mix Music? A Beginners Guide to Audio Mixing

Learning how to mix your music for yourself enables you to take control of your artistic and creative vision and take your music to the next level.

SoundGym Hero: Solomon Planga

Producer, Artist, and Musician from the Inland Empire in Southern California. Solomon Planga is this month's SoundGym Hero!

How to Use Reverb: The Art of Creating Depth and Atmosphere in Your Music

Reverb does much more than just add life back into dry recordings; the reason that this effect is used so extensively in mixes across so many genres is that it brings a huge number of additional benefits.

SoundGym Hero: Diego Conget Roche

A proud father, Self-taught visual designer, and Enthusiastic music lover, Diego Conget Roche is this month's SoundGym Hero!

What Does MIDI Stand For in Music? Discover the Most Powerful Tool in Music Production

Despite being so integrated and fundamental to today`s music production prosses MIDI technology is still a mystery for modern music makers

Plugin Review: D16 – Nepheton

Nepheton is D16's hyper-realistic take on the classic Roland 808 drum machine.

Mixing Music: 7 Stages Of A Great Sounding Mix

Knowing the stages of mixing is the best way for an engineer to systemize the most complex phase of production.

SoundGym Hero: David Alva

Mixing Engineer, Guitarist, and Singer, Currently living in Barcelona, Spain. David Alva is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Jeremy Latimer

Singer-songwriter, Music Producer, and Artist Currently living outside of Austin, Texas. Jeremy Latimer is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Audio Compression Explained: How to Use a Compressor for a Professional Mix

We take a deep dive into all things compression-related; examining everything from the fundamentals through to some incredibly useful advanced techniques.

SoundGym Hero: Dylan Galvin

Music Producer, Songwriter with an incredible tolerance to spicy foods, Currently from Los Angeles, CA, Dylan Galvin is this month's SoundGym Hero!

Mixing Vocals: 6 Tips for a Great Sounding Track

The ability to mix good-sounding vocals is a tricky but necessary skill for any recording engineer to possess.

SoundGym Hero: Björn Leese

Theatre-maker, Musician and Coffee lover, Currently from Berlin/Halle, Germany. Björn Leese is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Ben Sinclair

Avid Learner, Self-taught multi-instrumentalist, and On his path to mastering the art of music production. Currently located in Toronto, Canada. Ben Sinclair is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Andy Lowe

Aspiring to compose music for video games and films, multi-instrumentalist & music producer currently located in Shropshire, UK. Andy Lowe is this month's SoundGym Hero!

SoundGym Hero: Yuriy Mikhailov

Started attending music school at the age of 6, A signed artist at the British record label "Anjunabeats" and currently located in Kyiv, Ukraine, Yuriy Mikhailov is this month SoundGym Hero.

How to Ask for Feedback and Use It to Improve Your Mixes

Mix critique will help you make better-informed decisions with your music. Learn how to ask for feedback on your mix and apply it to improve your music.

Free VST Plugins

Klanghelm - IVGI |Free VST Plugin

IVGI is a saturation and distortion free VST plugin from Berlin developer Klanghelm. They describe it as 'the little brother' of their more full-featured saturation plugin, SDRR.

Boards Of Canada – Music Has The Right To Children

This month we investigate Boards Of Canada`s `Music Has The Right To Children`, an album that was labelled `the greatest psychedelic album of the `90s` by Pitchfork

EQ Ear Training: The Secret Weapon to Leveling Up Your Mixes

How accurately can you hear your mixes? EQing is often the hardest element of a mix to get right, and as a mix engineer, it is vital that you can pinpoint problem frequencies, and that you know how to fix them.

Four Ways Subtractive EQ Can Improve Your Mix

In this article we detail several more ways than subtractive EQing can improve your mix quality.

Free VST Plugins

AdHd - Levelling Tool

Levelling Tool is a tube levelling amplifier that is `inspired by the legends` and promises to deliver that always-popular analogue sound.

Daft Punk - Homework

This month we discuss Daft Punk`s 1997 album, Homework.

SoundGym Hero: Margherita Di Giovanni

DJ, Electronic percussionist and aspiring Pro Audio Engineer, currently from Italy, Margherita Di Giovanni is this month SoundGym Hero!

Amateur Sound Engineer, Musician and Songwriter. Originally from Porto, Portugal and currently living in Macau, China, Nuno Moreiras in this month SoundGym Hero!

Classic Tracks: James Taylor – James Taylor

This month we dig into the creative process behind James Taylor`s eponymous debut album.

Free VST Plugins

TDR - VOS SlickEQ | Free VST Plugin

This month's best free plugin comes from Tokyo Dawn Records. TDR VOS SlickEQ is a great little tool, offering remarkable versatility for a free plugin.

Mixing Low End: Four Tips For Crafting a Tighter Bass

Mixing bass isn`t easy and amateur recordings are often either lacking in bottom-end or have a bass sound that swamps all other low-end elements.

Self-taught producer, Mixer, Singer & Guitarist, Currently living in Switzerland, Ruud Reiher is this month SoundGym Hero!

6 Important Habits of Highly Effective Music Producers

There are plenty of people out there with talent, but unless you back your talent up with a good work ethic and an efficient workflow it is hard to compete.

Classic Tracks: R.E.M. – Automatic For The People

This month we dig into the recording process behind R.E.M.`s Automatic For The People. The album was one of their most commercially successful, and has sold more than 18 million copies to date.

Free VST Plugins

FXpansion - DCAM FreeComp|Free VST Plugin

FreeComp is modeled on a classic console bus compressor design, and therefore it really comes into its own when used for the kinds of tasks it's specifically designed for.

Free VST Plugins

BPB - Dirty Filter | Free VST Plugin

BPB Dirty Filter is a FREE tube distortion VST plugin by Bedroom Producers Blog.

3 Mistakes To Avoid When Mixing On Headphones

There are many benefits to mixing on headphones in a home studio, in this article we consider three mistakes that you might make when mixing on headphones and explain how to avoid making them.

Juri Kannheiser

Educated Musician, Cellist, Bandleader and Teacher, currently living in Munich, Germany, Juri Kannheiser is this month SoundGym Hero!

LANDR Review - Mastering services & Royalty-free samples

Unfamiliar with LANDR or need some further convincing of just how unbelievable these services are? We went underneath the hood to bring you a comprehensive overview of exactly what LANDR has to offer

Free VST Plugins

Klanhelm - MJUC Jr. | Free Compressor VST Plugin

MJUC Jr. is the second Klanghelm compressor we`ve covered in this column, having written about the DC1A in a previous post, in which we enthused about its lovely, warm sound.

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication

This month we examine the Red Hot Chili Peppers` 1999 album, Californication.

7 Ways To Get Creative With Your Samples

There are vast sample libraries out there that we can make use of, but despite the range of sounds available to us, there are good reasons for manipulating the samples that you use.

Musician & Software Engineer, currently located in San Francisco, California. Mark Milbourne is this month SoundGym Hero!

Born and raised in The Netherlands, Eurovision enthusiast with the hopes of becoming a full-fledged Producer & Sound engineer. Luc Van Hoek is this month SoundGym Hero!

Andreas Kaufmann – Closing The Loop EP

This month we focus on the `Closing The Loop EP` by Andreas Kaufmann

Free VST Plugins

U-he - Protoverb | Free VST Plugin

The free VST plug-in this month comes from from u-he. They call their prototype reverb plugin 'researchware' because it is free but also an attempt at data mining.

A Brief History of Mastering: From Vinyl to Streaming

The role of the mastering engineer has changed a great deal over the course of the history of recorded music. In this blog, we trace those changes from the dawn of mastering as a discipline, right up to the present day.

Air – Moon Safari

This month we dig into the recording process behind Air`s Moon Safari.

The Black Russian`s – You Better Shoot Me

This month we focus on `You Better Shoot Me` by The Black Russian`s.

Free VST Plugins

Polish software group D16 have established a first-rate reputation in the world of audio plugins since their launch in 2006. Their Frontier limiter is available for free and is well worth checking out.

Five Tips For Using Reference Tracks

What should you look for in a reference track and how should you integrate the reference listening process into your workflow? We answer these questions below.

Röyksopp – Melody A.M.

This month we investigate Röyksopp`s million-selling debut album, Melody A.M.

Discovering Drumazon 2: The Ultimate 909-Inspired Drum Machine Plug-In

Polish software house D16 has been cooking something special for its flagship 909-inspired drum machine

On her way to becoming a full-time Mix and Mastering Engineer, Currently living in Los Angeles, California, Kat Aquino is this month SoundGym Hero!

No_message – Another Error EP

This month we focus on the Another Error EP by Dutch producer No_message, AKA SoundGym member Dirk Visser

Three Songs To Inspire Experimentation With Song Structures

Our Sound Tips for this month are a little different. Instead of focussing on music production, we want to encourage you to think a little more deeply about song structures.

Free VST Plugins

Fuse Audio Labs - RS-W2395C

This month, our free plug-in comes from Fuse Audio Labs. They have teamed up with `analogue mastermind` Roger Schult to bring you the RS-W2395C, a classic Baxandall EQ modelled on a 1950s design.

Metallica – Metallica

This month we investigate Metallica`s eponymous fifth album, commonly known as The Black Album.

Free VST Plugins

TDR - Nova | Free EQ VST Plugin

Tokyo Dawn Records are offering their excellent NOVA plug-in for free. On first glance it might not be obvious how deep the functionality of NOVA goes, but there is a lot packed in here.

Free VST Plugins

iZotope - Ozone Imager

We`ve featured a few iZotope plug-ins in this column before, but they are heavyweights in this space and when they offer something for free, it`s normally worth paying attention.

J Merce – In Your Presence

This month on our music spot we focus on `In Your Presence` by J Merce and her NEW Artist Pack sounds for training

Led Zeppelin – When The Levee Breaks

This month on our classic tracks section we take a look at the closing track from rock masterpiece Led Zeppelin IV; `When The Levee Breaks`.

Six Ways To Shake Off Your Creative Block

There are various techniques that you can use to make sure that your studio time remains productive. in this article you can find some examples.

Singer-songwriter And Producer From Barcelona, Spain, Uri Plana Is This Month`s Soundgym Hero!

3 Tips for Recording Vocals

In this article, we will walk through three tips that will help you to record polished vocal parts.

Tata Music - Shadows

This month we focus on `Shadows`, a Melodic Electronica From Tata Music Promising New Producer

Three Tips For Reimagining Samples

When you are using melodic samples or drum loops, you might want to consider modifying or reimagining them in order to make your music as unique as possible.

Kraftwerk – The Man Machine

This month, following the death of founder-member Florian Schneider, we discuss the importance of Kraftwerk`s 1978 album, The Man Machine.

Gil Scott Heron – The Revolution Will Not Be Televised

This month we discuss Gil Scott-Heron`s 1971 recording of `The Revolution Will Not Be Televised`.

Free VST Plugins

Valhalla - Supermassive | Free VST Plugin

The free VST plug-in this month comes from Valhalla, Supermassive has been designed for 'MASSIVE' delays and reverbs.

Surev – Give Me Your Love

This month we focus on `Give Me Your Love` by Surev a Producer from Mexico with a track that gets us ready for the summer

Audio and FOH Engineer currently located in Romania, Lucian Flutur is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Free VST Plugins

Puremagnetik - Strata

we`ve already covered their Driftmaker delay on this blog. Now, they have released Strata, a brand new `Particle Tape Loop Device`.

St. Vincent - Masseducation

This month we dig into the recording process behind St. Vincent`s Masseducation.

Arcwielder - Hydrate

This month we focus on `Hydrate` by Ashton Myers, aka Arcwielder.

Frequency Masking: What is it and Four Techniques to Prevent it in Your Mix

In this article, we will share what frequency masking is and techniques to prevent frequency masking.

Songwriter, Musician and Occasional animator currently located on the Isle of Wight, Roberta Fidora is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Public Enemy – Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos

This month we dig into the recording process behind the Public Enemy`s `Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos`.

Ligovo – Warmth Of Time

This month we focus on `Warmth Of Time` from Swedish producer Jaroslav Rosenqvist, aka Ligovo.

Free VST Plugins

Soundemote - FlowerChild Filter

The first in a series of boutique analogue-style filters that they promise to deliver over time. If they are all free, and all this much fun, then they really are spoiling us.

Noise Gates: Three Tips to Use Them Creatively

We mostly ignore it noise or try to manage it by keeping noise to a minimum. However, this isn't always sufficient. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to tackle the issue. in this article we examine what is a noise gate, and how can it be used creatively in audio production.

The Slits - Cut

This month we discuss The Slits` 1979 debut, Cut.

The Dirty Projekt – Choppy Lips

This month we focus on `Choppy Lips` by The Dirty Projekt, a duo from Riga, Latvia that features SoundGym member Andrejs Sadkovojs alongside Viktorija P.

Five Ways To Spend Your Time Productively In Quarantine

These are strange times. More and more of us are confined indoors as we battle to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Mateusz Dąbrowski

Guitarist and Music producer from Poland, currently working on his upcoming solo EP, Mateusz Dąbrowski is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Néstor Viciano

Freelance Musician and Music producer, Néstor Viciano is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Free VST Plugins

Melda Productions - MSpectralPan

MSpectralPan is a panner from Melda Productions, the key feature of which is that it allows users to `pan each frequency individually`.

Four Creative Ways To Use LFOs

LFOs are often applied to the cut-off of a low-pass filter in order to create the infamous wobble bass sound. But there are also numerous other ways to creatively use LFOsa

Pet Shop Boys – It`s A Sin

This month we look at the Pet Shop Boys` `It`s A Sin`, their second UK number one, and Europe`s best selling single of 1987.

ROM – Astral Beats EP

This month we focus on the Astral Beats EP by Cristián Rebolledo; otherwise known as ROM.

Demystifying Compression: An Exposé on the Secret Smurf Army Inside Your DAW

`What exactly is a compressor and what do all those controls mean?` As a sound educator I get this question often and the folks over at SoundGym invited me to share the answer

Pianist, Music Producer and Excel sheet fanatic ( the good kind), Emir Brandic is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

meHiLove - Afterlight

Top-drawer emotional progressive house from veteran producer

Three Considerations For Working With Harmonies

Harmonies are an excellent way of adding color and interest to any track that contains vocals. We discuss various methods for adding harmonies into your productions.

Classic Tracks: Daft Punk - Discovery

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective. This time in our classic tracks section we discuss Daft Punk's 2001 album, Discovery, reviewing it from a music production perspective.

Free VST Plugins

Alex Hilton - A1TriggerGate | Free VST Plugin

When Alex Hilton couldn`t find a trigger gate VST plug-in that did the things he wanted, he just went ahead and built one from scratch and made it available for FREE

Tonic Dream – Dark To Light

This month we focus on `Dark To Light` by Tonic Dream, AKA SoundGym member Ty Deathrage.

Free VST Plugins

TAL - Vocoder | Free VST Plugin

Designed to recreate the sound of hardware from the early 1980s. TAL's free vst Vocoder plugin includes a combination of analogue modelled components with digital algorithms that do some helpful things.

How To Make Your Productions Unique By Using Field Recordings

The wonderful thing about field recordings is that they are totally unique – nobody else will have them in their sample library – so they can add some real individuality to a piece of music. We discuss three things to remember if you want to use field recordings in your work.

Classic Tracks: The Beatles – Tomorrow Never Knows

This month we take a look at the track that closed off The Beatles` 1966 Revolver album, `Tomorrow Never Knows`.

A multi-instrumentalist, singer and audio engineer, Currently collaborating with three different bands, James Gancarz is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Four Ways You Can Add A Little Chaos To Your Production Process

Sometimes we make the most satisfying discoveries by accident; if you are in full control of your workflow, you are never going to be surprised by any part of your production process.

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Cry` by ODREE.

Free VST Plugins

Fine Cut Bodies - La Petite Excite | Free Distortion VST Plugin

This free vst plug-in is essentially an exciter, meaning it uses subtle distortion to enhance your audio in various ways.

Soft Cell - Tainted Love

This month we take a look at Soft Cell`s `Tainted Love` – a track that spent a record breaking 43 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.

Krzysztof Rutka

Bass guitar player, Sound engineer and Part of the instrumental post-rock trio Transmission Zero, Krzysztof Rutka is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Craig Sheffield

Formally trained as a Musician, Multi-instrumentalist, Music Producer and Educator Craig Sheffield is this month`s SoundGym Hero!

Gamma Juice - Pixie

This month we are going to be sharing the new album created by our founder; Noam Gingold and his band, Gamma Juice!

How Well Do You Know Your Compressor?

Compression is one of the fundamental processes we use when mixing music. We will take for granted at this point that you know what each of a compressor`s controls does, and that you are comfortable setting a threshold level. But have you thought deeply about how tweaking some of a compressor`s other controls can change the sound you are processing?

Free VST Plugins

Glitchmachines - Fracture

Fracture by Glitchmachines, is `buffer effect geared toward creating robotic artifacts and musical malfunctions` and it is an incredibly fun and full-featured free product.

Link Wray - Rumble

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining notable aspects of its recording. This month we explore `Rumble` by Link Wray.

Tokalah - Moodswings

Laid back, lo-fi hip-hop instrumental from the Belgian producer

Free VST Plugins

Puremagnetik - Driftmaker | Free Delay VST Plugin

Puremagnetik's Driftmaker is a different kind of delay tool, and because you probably don't have a free vst plug-in that behaves quite like it – it's well worth checking out.

How Can EQ Ear Training Improve Your Music?

If you`ve been using SoundGym, then the chances are that you realise ear training is important. But how does this training impact on how your music sounds?

Björk – Medúlla

This month we dig into the recording process behind Björk`s Medúlla.

Is Making Music Damaging Your Hearing?

If you work with music in any way, your hearing is obviously indispensable, However, most of us in the music industry come in to contact with loud music as a matter of course.

The Specials – Ghost Town

This month we dig into the recording process behind The Specials` `Ghost Town`.

Free VST Plugins

Imaginando - DLYM

DLYM is a versatile `delay modulator` that is available for free from Imaginando. The plug-in features a cool, minimalistic UI that is clear and intuitive.

Krzysztof Ratyński

Electronics engineer with a hobby and passion for recording and sound/video production, Krzysztof Ratyński is this month SoundGym Hero!

Self-taught Audio engineer, Guitarist, YouTuber and Diamond madel under is belt in only a few months, Philipp Zander is this month SoundGym Hero!

Transmission Zero - Transmission Zero

Polish post-rock band blast us into space with their debut album

More than three years experience in the Gym, Audio Engineer, YouTuber, and Host for Pro Studio Live, Cato Zane is this month SoundGym Hero!

YLZN – Dream Invasion EP

Wonky, grooving electronica from Lebanese artist

Free VST Plugins

Native Instruments - Komplete Start | Free VST Plugin

The Komplete Start bundle is obviously designed to give users a taste of what Native Instruments plug-ins can do, in the hope that they will later upgrade to full versions of instruments such as Kontakt and Massive, and as suggested, it's all available for free.

Jean-Michel Jarre - Oxygène

This month we discuss Jean-Michel Jarre`s third album - and the first that wasn`t intended for use as a soundtrack – Oxygène.

Previously featured on or Music Spot, Self-taught producer And a part of the due "Convolute" Mathijs Baas is this month SoundGym Hero!

Faith No More - Epic

The track was startling on its release in 1989. Combining metal, funk and rap in a way that eventually became familiar, at the time it had no precedent.

Time Rival – Cambrian Explosion

Atmospheric ambient darkness from Illinois based producer

Free VST Plugins

Polyverse - Wider 2.0 | Free Stereo Widener VST Plugin

Wider is a stereo expansion plug-in that was created by the engineers at Polyverse, in collaboration with psy-trance legends Infected Mushroom.

How Deliberate Practice Can Improve Your Music Production

If you want to improve a skill you must practice it. Perhaps this is not a huge revelation, but how much do we think about the way in which we practice? Deliberate practice is a type of practice that is systematic and has purpose

Currently touring the US as part of the group "Animals", Bass player and Producer from Moscow, Kirill Afonin is this month SoundGym Hero!

MR.SMiFF – Delirium

Dark, atmospheric IDM from Bulgarian artist and producer Stefan Hristov, AKA MR.SMiFF.

3 Things To Consider When Working With Drum Samples

Producers across an extremely wide range of genres can find themselves using drum samples; sometimes as loops, sometimes as one-shots, sometimes a combination of both. Below we highlight a few things that you should consider when working with drum samples in your productions.

The Prodigy – The Fat Of The Land

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we discuss The Prodigy`s third album, and the one that made them global stars; The Fat Of The Land.

Free VST Plugins

Acustica - TAN | Free VST Plugin

Acustica`s ACQUA range is a well-regarded series of analogue modelling plug-ins that make use of their dynamic convolution technology. The TAN compressor is a great introduction to their world, and for a free compressor it both sounds excellent, and comes with a nice range of features.

Accusonus - ERA Bundle

The ERA Bundle consists of six audio repair plug-ins. Primarily aimed at vocal processing, a number of them can also be applied to other audio repair tasks.

Accusonus - Regroover and Beatformer

Beatformer is a plug-in that Accusonus claims will enable you to `musically sculpt your beats`, while Regroover is an innovative sampler that allows you to completely reimagine your drum loops.

Computer Science expert with a sweet tooth for computer music, influenced by a wide variety of genres from classical to progressive house and with exactly three hundred parachute jumps on his roster, Ross Williams is this month SoundGym Hero!

How to Make a Song Sound Vintage: Four Mixing Tips that Actually Work

In this article, we give you our tips on how to give your mix that vintage touch

Hadron Sounds - Let Me Live My Life (feat. Soraya Grosso)

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Let Me Live My Life` by Hadron Sounds, featuring Soraya Grosso.

Talking Heads – Once In A Lifetime

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any innovations that took place during its recording. This month we take a look at `Once In A Lifetime` by Talking Heads.

Free VST Plugins

TAL - Filter 2 | Free VST Plugin

Our free plug-in this month is a host-synced filter that can be used in a similar way to Xfer Records` excellent LFO Tool. If you would rather not splash the cash on LFO Tool, then this is a plug-in that will serve you well in its stead.

Groove Dealers – Moombah!

Russian duo get the party started with moombahton inflected EDM

Marvin Gaye – What`s Going On?

This month we discuss Marvin Gaye`s 1971 album, What`s Going On?

Three Ways To Liven Up Your Vocals With Spot Effects

In the vast majority of productions that feature a vocal, it is one of the elements that will be front and centre of the mix. Adding spot FX to your vocals is a great way of holding listener attention, while also showing off your production chops!

Giacomo Satoru Quintili

Composer for multimedia, Producer and also currently studying Electronic Music composition at the private college of Music Saint Louis in Rome, Giacomo Satoru Quintili is this month SoundGym Hero!

Christian Larese

Playing piano since 1997, Programming synthesizers and a full-time professionally Recording engineer and Producer. Christian Larese is this month SoundGym Hero!

Bossoe – Freedom In Thought EP

This month we focus on the `Freedom In Thought EP` from Dutch producer Mathijs Baas, aka Bossoe.

Mixing Percussion: Four Tips For Better Sounding Drums

Percussion is rarely the first thing you notice when listening to a track. But elements such as claps, tambourines, congas, and shakers can really elevate a piece of music.

The White Stripes - Elephant

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any innovations that took place during its recording. This month we discuss 2002 album, Elephant by The White Stripes.

Free VST Plugins

Sennheiser - dearVR MICRO (FKA AMBEO Orbit) | Free 3D Audio VST Plugin

Designed to give you extra flexibility when working with binaural recordings.

Free VST Plugins

Spitfire Audio - LABS | Free VST Plugin

What this plug-in lacks in versatility, it more than makes up for in quality. LABS is a worthy addition to anyone`s production tool kit.

This month we take a look at `Kiss` by Prince. Released in 1986, it was his third US no. 1 hit.

Riley Hawke – I Still Do

This month we focus on `I Still Do` by Riley Hawke.

Four Tips To Help You Balance Your Faders

our faders are powerful tools, and you should remember that many mix issues can be solved through balancing alone.

Electronic Music Composer and Sound Artist, Recently released is new album "Iridescent", Oleg Shpudeiko is this month SoundGym Hero!

Best Drum Machines of All Time: The 7 Classics That Changed Music Forever

Released between 1980 and 1986, which some call the golden age of drum machines, these are our seven favorite drum machines of all time listed by chronological order.

Recording and Mixing for the past 15 years , head mixing engineer in Oblivion Studios Dublin, Yanko Genov is this month SoundGym Hero!

Four Tips To Help You Achieve a Pro Vocal Sound

If your track features vocals, they will often be the element that attracts most scrutiny from your audience.

Sheryl Crow – Sheryl Crow

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any innovations that took place during its recording. This month we discuss Sheryl Crow`s eponymous second album.

Free VST Plugins

Xfer Records - OTT | Free Compressor VST Plugin

Xfer Records plug-ins are always of the highest quality – their Serum synth has become one of the industry standards in recent years. Given this track record, it is no surprise that OTT is one of our favourite free plug-ins out there.

Aniene - Da Otranto a Craiova

This month we focus on `Da Otranto a Craiova` by Federico Viscioletti, AKA Aniene.

Free VST Plugins

Brainworx - bx_subfilter | Free VST Plugin

This plug-in is essentially a resonant high-pass filter, and while you will undoubtedly already have tools in your arsenal that can perform the same function, the bx_subfilter does the job quickly and effectively.

Felix West – No Sleep

This month we focus on `No Sleep` An Energetic Club Banger from the German Producer, Felix West.

Classic Tracks: Tricky – Black Steel

This month we take a look at Tricky`s `Black Steel` – a radical re-imagining of Public Enemy`s `Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos`.

4 tips That Will Make Your Workflow More Professional

In this article, we're not going to give you tips that will improve your mixing, but we're going to share some tips that will hopefully save you from some major headaches.

The Single Best Resource for Learning Audio Synthesis

Most of us use synthesisers at some point in our production workflow, but how well do you understand the principles of synthesis?

Grzegorz Mukanowski

Sound engineer and Bass guitar player from Warszawa, Poland. Grzegorz Mukanowski is this month SoundGym Hero!

Andrew Deviatikh

Composer and Sound engineer from St. Petersburg, Andrew Deviatikh is this month SoundGym Hero.

Three Ways to Use an EQ That You Might Not Have Considered

We`ve written EQ tip articles before. In fact we`ve written them more than once, but this is such an important area of music production that we are back once again with some more EQ tips.

Free VST Plugins

iZotope - Vocal Doubler

Those good people at iZotope are giving out yet another free plug-in. This time they are back with a vocal doubler called, well, Vocal Doubler.

Slayer – Reign In Blood

This month we discuss the album named by Kerrang! Magazine as the heaviest of all time; Slayer`s Reign In Blood.

Pluet – If I Swallow The Light

This month we focus on `If I Swallow The Light` by producer and multi-instrumentalist Renato Antić AKA Pluet.

Ľubomír Mazák

Multi-instrumentalist, Working as a producer and mixing engineer, Ľubomír Mazák is this month SoundGym Hero!

Isaac Hayes – Hot Buttered Soul

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any innovations that took place during its recording. This month we discuss Hot Buttered Soul by Isaac Hayes.

Three Ways To Shape Your Drum Sound

Drums are the backbone of most recordings, and the quality of the drum sound can make or break a track.

Free VST Plugins

We recently provided you with a few tips on how to use chorus in your mixes, and our free plug-in this month is a chorus with a bit of a difference.

Anthony Chognard

Guitarist, Sound engineer, producer and a part of CHS Prod , Anthony Chognard is this month SoundGym Hero.

3 Ways To Introduce Movement Into Your Mix

Stereo movement can be used to highlight certain musical parts and can be a great tool if a little more excitement is needed at certain points within a track

Donna Summer – I Feel Love

This month we take a look at a track that has truly shaped the sound of electronic music ever since; Donna Summer`s `I Feel Love`, produced by Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte.

Free VST Plugins

Flux - BitterSweet | Free Transient Designer VST Plugin

Flux`s `BitterSweet` transient designer is an extremely simple plug-in, but one that has some interesting features if you look a little deeper.

Magenta Skyy - Impression

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Impression` by Mark Boholiub, AKA Magenta Skyy.

Guillotine Sunbeam - Bars Beneath Your Skin

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Bars Beneath Your Skin` by Yoni Collier AKA Guillotine Sunbeam

Temple of Time – A Living

This month we focus on `A Living` by Jeremie Gabriel, AKA Temple of Time.

Free VST Plugins

Voxengo - SPAN | Free VST Plugin

oxengo`s SPAN is an excellent free, `fast Fourier transform` (FFT) spectrum analyser. We`ve recommended it in the past, in our Sound Tips articles, so we feel that it is worth devoting a whole article to it.

Classic Tracks: Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody

This month on our Classic Tracks section we take a look at Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody".

What is a Chorus Effect? 4 Creative Ways to Enhance Your Mix

"Maximize the versatility of the Chorus effect in music production. Discover ways to use it on vocals, instruments, and mixes to add depth, dimension, warmth, and richness to your sound.

Passing On Experience

As I often do, I`ve been pondering education in sound engineering and what it is that teachers actually do for their students.

Producer and Mixing engineer, owner of Shane Matthew Studios, Shane Kelm is this month SoundGym Hero.

Classic Tracks: MGMT – Time To Pretend

This month we take a look at MGMT`s era-defining `"Time To Pretend`" from their debut album, `"Oracular Spectacular`"

Free VST Plugins

Native Instruments - Guitar Rig 7 Player | Free VST Plugin

Guitar Rig 7 is Native Instruments' flagship guitar processing plug-in, and it is truly one of the industry standards. the 'Guitar Rig 6 Player is the FREE version of GR6, and while it has a limited feature set, the quality of the FX processing is undeniable.

Paul Arcane - Imagine

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we look at `Imagine`, a collaboration between SoundGym member Paul Arcane and Liftwalkers.

4 Tips for Working with Orchestral Samples

When used with skill, orchestral samples can be incredible. However, if used carelessly, even the best sample library can sound flat and unrealistic.

Mixing and Recording engineer straight out of Poland, This month SoundGym Hero Adrian Janicki.

Guitarist, sound producer & video artist based in Avignon, south of France, Max Bénézeth is this month SoundGym Hero.

Free VST Plugins

TAL - Reverb 4 | Free Reverb VST Plugin

Reverb 4 is a free and easy-to-use reverb plug-in that gives you a modulated vintage reverb sound with simple controls and a fast build-up time. which can be used to create a sense of space and depth in a mix, boost the emotional impact of a song, and make a mix sound more natural and polished.

MOÜGLI - Caminito

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Caminito` by MOÜGLI, a band founded by SoundGym member, Samuel Lizarralde.

The Stone Roses – Fools Gold

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we take a look at the Stone Roses` indie-dance classic, `Fools Gold`.

A self-taught producer who is working entirely ITB, located in Germany, We are proud to announce @Christoph Ebel as this month SoundGym Hero!

Free VST Plugins

HOFA - SYSTEM Basic

This month we look at SYSTEM Basic from HOFA, a multi-effects plug-in that is the freeware version of their HOFA SYSTEM 2 (which retails at €79.90). Whilst the free version only offers a limited feature set, it can still do a surprising amount and is well worth a look.

Wu-Tang Clan – Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we discuss the debut Wu-Tang Clan album, Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)

Five Tips To Help You EQ Better

We`ve said it before and we`ll say it again – EQing is the most important skill that you need to master as a mix engineer. Unfortunately, it is also one of the hardest things to get right.

Diyagaskai - Lazy Slow

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on Victoria Diyagaskai, and her track `Lazy Slow`.

Self-taught sound designer, located in Italy and part of a sound packs label by the name of "Soundmasters", We are proud to announce Tomás Mccann as this month SoundGym Hero!

Free VST Plugins

Mercuriall - Guitar FX

We`ve got more than just one free plug-in for you this month – we`d like to introduce you to a range of eight plug-ins that are available for free download from those kind folks over at Mercuriall.

Classic Album: Joy Division – Unknown Pleasures

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we focus on Joy Division`s Unknown Pleasures.

Three Tips To Help You Mix Vocals

The quality of a lead vocal is absolutely fundamental to whether a track will succeed or fail. If your music features vocals in any way, you need to be able to mix this vital element with confidence.

Music Spot: Orçun Ayata – Free Will Of A Hill

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on Orçun Ayata, and his new track `Free Will of a Hill`.

The New Way of Learning Sound and Production

There are proven benefits to learning online, as demonstrated by MIT in a report discussing the future direction of the institute.

After being featured on our Music spot, Releasing is first self-produced EP, The Singer-songwriter from Wellington, New Zealand, Neil MacLeod is this month SoundGym Hero.

Free VST Plugins

Hornet - Harmonics

`Harmonics` is a really interesting little plug-in from Hornet, which they describe as a `flexible harmonic wave shaper`.

The Kinks – You Really Got Me

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we focus on one of the seminal records of the 1960s – The Kinks` `You Really Got Me`.

Eitan Reiter - Fade Away

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on Eitan Reiter, and his new single `Fade Away`.

Composer of contemporary classical and media music, based out of San Francisco and Los Angeles, And probably the most decorated SoundGym member, @Kenji Oh is this month SoundGym Hero.

Four tips To Troubleshoot Low End Problems

It`s no secret that the hardest thing to get right when mixing in a home studio is the low-end. Many modern music genres rely on huge but tight bass sounds, but without professionally applied acoustic treatment and high-end monitoring, it can be hard to deliver this consistently.

Reference Tracks: The Secret to a Great Mix

References are one of the best ways to quickly improve a mix. First, create the ideal home studio that makes mixing easy. Then use reference tracks to become a better mixer FAST. They keep you from `mixing blind` by showing you how the pros do it.

Free VST Plugins

Audioblast - Instalooper

For our free plug-in this month, we want to point you in the direction of something a little different; Audioblast`s Instalooper.

Classic Tracks: Beastie Boys - Sabotage

This time in our classic tracks section we dig into the recording process behind the Beastie Boys' 'Sabotage'. reviewing it from a music production perspective.

4 Things To Consider When Adding Reverb To Your Mix

Reverb is one of the effects that you are likely to find on pretty much any mix in almost any genre. It`s an interesting tool, because although it essentially just does one thing we can use it for a wide variety of mix tasks.

Alan Midnight - Love Me

This month we focus on Alan Midnight, a 29-year-old music producer from Poland, and his single `Love Me`.

Professional guitarist player, Completely self-taught producer and Music Technology lecture, @Lee Franklin is this month SoundGym Hero.

Orbital - Chime

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we take a look at Orbital`s 1989 debut single, `Chime`.

Free VST Plugins

iZotope - Neutrino

Neutrino is a free spectral shaping plug-in that iZotope have created based on the mixing technology that they developed for Neutron.

Three Tips To Help You Mix Guitars

Guitars are absolutely central to mixes across a wide range of genres, but they are notoriously difficult to mix. Mixing is about creating individual space in the frequency spectrum for each musical element.

MmcM – The Blossoming Years

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we do something a little different as we review an entire album from SoundGym member Sergey Kosov, otherwise known as MmcM.

Three Tips to save Time in Sound System Tuning

There are a million things to do in live sound system setup. Who has time for system tuning?

Five Important Points To Consider When Reaching For The EQ

EQing is arguably the most important part of the mix process – and it`s also probably the hardest aspect of mixing to get right. Below, we highlight five different points that you should consider when reaching for that EQ.

Free VST Plugins

Audio Damage - Rough Rider 2 & FuzzPlus 3

We`ve got a 2-for-1 special for you this month as Audio Damage are currently offering two of their plug-ins absolutely free!

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we explore the lavish production of Queen`s `Bohemian Rhapsody`.

Neil MacLeod- Settle

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Settle`, by Neil McLeod, a singer-songwriter from Wellington, New Zealand.

Influenced by the electronic music scene, Just relocated to LA from Switzerland and working on is own productions @Silvano Jud is this month SoundGym Hero.

Free VST Plugins

Valhalla - Freq Echo | Free VST Plugin

ValhallaDSP have been carving out a reputation for providing excellent plug-ins at extremely affordable prices for nearly ten years now. The fantastic `Freq Echo` is even more affordable than the rest of their plug-ins; you can download it for free from their website without even having to register.

Nirvana - Nevermind

This month we focus on Nirvana`s `Nevermind`; taking a look at some of the ways in which producer Butch Vig, got the best out of the band.

3 Advanced Audio Compression Techniques That Will Improve Your Mix

Compression is one of the key audio production tools – it will be vital to almost all mixes you do, In this article, we discuss three advanced compression techniques that will help you take your mixes to the next level.

Ido Segal – Blackened Footprint

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Blackened Footprint`, a new collaboration between Ido Segal and Rem Perry

A 25 years old self-taught producer, Former Marine Corps, Currently living in Kansa, @Bogdan Gevko is this month SoundGym Hero.

J Dilla - Donuts

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we investigate J Dilla`s `Donuts`.

The Rebeat – PassiveAggressive

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `PassiveAggressive`, by The Rebeat.

Free VST Plugins

Auburn Sounds - Graillon 2 | Free Pitch Correction VST Plugin

Are you looking for a free alternative to Autotune? Auburn Sounds may have just the plug-in for you.

Three Ways to Enhance Your Mix Through Smart Use of Panning

Mixing is all about creating space. As mix engineers, we need to create individual spaces for each mix element, and we do this through use of EQ, spatial effects and of course; panning.

After being featured in our music spot, The Thailand based Australian producer @John Lavido is this month SoundGym Hero!

Free VST Plugins

Klanghelm - DC1A

The DC1A is a deceptively simple little compressor from Berlin developer Klanghelm. They describe it as `the little brother of the compression monster DC8C`, their more full-featured compression plug-in.

Leftfield - Leftism

Each month we take a look at a classic track or album and discuss it from a music production perspective, examining any sonic innovations that took place during its recording. This month we investigate Leftfield`s `Leftism`.

Nerzhin – Analog Harm

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Analog Harm`, by Nerzhin.

A glimpse of his journey from musician to a programmer to a mixing and mastering engineer, @Patrick Hyde aka The Decibel Man is this month SoundGym Hero.

Free VST Plugins

iZotope - Vinyl

At some point during your music production career, you are going to want to make your high-fidelity digital recording sound like a scratchy record from the 1970s – we`ve all been there! Luckily, iZotope have developed a great little plug-in that will let you do just that, for free.

Classic Tracks: David Bowie - Heroes

This month in our classic tracks section, we investigate David Bowie's 'Heroes'.

Vanessa Ondine – Forever

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Forever`, by the Vanessa Ondine.

A sound professional mastering engineer, active in the music industry for over 20 years, working in stereo, surround and immersive sound formats Tom Van Achte is this month SoundGym Hero.

Free VST Plugins

Glitchmachines - Hysteresis

A glitch delay processor `geared toward creating robotic artifacts and abstract musical malfunctions`, and it`s wonderfully full-featured for a free plug-in.

Lektrique – Shred

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we focus on `Shred`, by Vincent Sergeant, AKA Lektrique.

4 Ways That Automation Will Improve Your Mix

Automation is a tool that is vital to most mixes, but are you using the technique to its full potential?

Classic Track: Pink Floyd – On The Run

Each month we are going to take a look at a classic track and discuss it from a music production persepective. We`ll examine any sonic innovations and discuss their influence on modern day music.

Ressa Schwarzwald

Game audio producer and sound director at TinyBuild, Holding the title of golden ears and Currently working on her first solo album, Ressa Schwarzwald is this month SoundGym Hero.

Music Spot: Heinali – Anthracite

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature.

Free VST Plugins

Softube - Saturation Knob | Free Distortion VST Plugin

Softube`s Saturation Knob is a simple but effective plug-in that has been available to ProTools users for a number of years, and available cross-platform since the end of 2014

How to Hear Compression: 5 Hints You Should Listen To

The traits you have to look out for here can be very subtle, but if you follow our tips, you should start climbing up levels in no time.

Video of the month

Review – Why Mixing In Mono Is The Secret

This month we take a look at `Why Mixing In Mono Is The Secret` by The Recording Revolution

Free VST Plugins

Cableguys - PanCake 2 | Free Dynamic Panning VST Plugin

Out pick for this month's best free VST plugin is Pancake 2 made by the Germany-based Cableguys. a wacky, customizable, over-the-top stereo panner.

Music Spot: John Lavido – Hold Me (feat. ELY)

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we feature John Lavido

Thomas kumer, one of the first SoundGym members and the man with more than 380 daily workouts under is belt, is this month SoundGym hero!

Audio Frequency Range: Seven Crucial Zones You Need to Know

Master the key frequency ranges essential for professional audio production and mixing.

Video of the month

Review – Tuning Snares Pro Tips

This month, we take a look at ‘Tuning Snares: Pro Tips’ by ADSR

Free VST Plugins

Tritik’s Krush

There are a huge number of distortion plug-ins of varying quality available on the market, but we think that Tritik’s Krush is one that is well worth checking out.

3 Stereo Enhancements That Will Improve Your Mix

Every producer needs to learn a few tricks that will allow him or her to manipulate the stereo width of their different mix elements

Sean Raya, one of SoundGym's early members not only has the respect of winning our prestigious gold medal but also to the honor of being named the first ever SoundGym Hero!

Who are the top women in sound?

To celebrate International Women’s day, Soundgym would like to salute some of these women, recognise their struggles and their achievements.

Free VST Plugins

Balance Mastering - Teufelsberg Reverb | Free VST Plugin

The Teufelsberg reverb is the first plugin to be released from their `Balance Audio Tools` range, and it sounds spectacular.

Pitch Shifter: 4 Ways to Use It Creatively in Your Mix

Discover pitch shifters, the coolest audio effect out there. Learn about the different types of pitch shifters, how they can be used to improve your mix, their potential pitfalls, and how to avoid them when creating your uniqe sound.

Video of the month

Parallel Processing: The Oldschool Way

This month we take a look at ‘Parallel Processing: The Oldschool Way’ by Sadowick Production.

Free VST Plugins

U-he’s ‘Tyrell N6’ Analog Modelling Synth

When a developer as consistently good as u-he is giving something away for free, it is well worth taking a look.

Celebrating the new SoundGym!

The new SoundGym is all about you, SoundGym members. Music producers, audio engineers, PA guys, students and home recordings musicians from around the world who share the strive for great sounding music.

3 Ways You Can Use Reverb For Dramatic Effect

we are going to look at how we can use reverb as a creative tool, to make various elements of our mix sound more interesting, exciting or dramatic

Four Ways To Bring Your Mix To Life With Distortion

The word `distortion` can call to mind screaming guitars or bit-crushed drums, but there are also many more subtle ways we can use this tool to enhance our mixes.

4 Ways Using A Multiband Compressor Can Improve Your Mix

Multiband Compressor is a powerful tool that has many uses you may not be aware of.

3 More Ways to Evaluate Your Mix (Part 2)

More tips about evaluating your mix. Follow these tips, and your mixes should start to improve straight away.

3 Ways To Evaluate The Quality Of Your Mix

How can you evaluate the quality of your mix? What can indicate that your mixes are good and what can you do to improve it?

Aux Send and Return: 4 Creative Ways To Use Them

In this article we are going to look at ways you can use sends and returns to improve your mixing and your workflow.

4 Ways To Unleash The Power Of Sidechain Compression

Sidechain Compression is an incredibly powerful technique that can be used both to solve mix problems and for creative purposes. Many beginner rock producers seem to be unaware of this technique entirely – and may be surprised at how useful it proves to be.

Four Ways to Use HP and LP Filters for A Better Mix

High and low-pass filters are simple, but incredibly important tools and In this article, we'll offer you four tips to elevate your mixes to the next level by using HP and LP filters.