Mixing
Producertech
Music Mixing Fundamentals
Whilst careful selection of sounds and arrangement are certainly the 2 greatest factors in determining the quality of a track, the successful mixing of parts will make or break that track. As such, knowing the main stages of mixing music and principles behind each one is hugely important when producing. In this detailed set of lectures, you’ll be guided through the whole process slowly and methodically, with everything explained clearly along the way.
After some examples of good and bad arranging, and why they impact heavily on the quality of the mix, the first major process of level balancing is explored. Initially, terms such as ‘clipping’ and ‘headroom’ are explained, after which volumes of tracks are balanced with respect to master channel metering. Different approaches to mixing are shown, including mixing up and mixing in mono.
The next couple of modules deal with the 2 single most important audio effects when mixing, which are compression and EQ. The absolute basics of these effects are relayed, serving as a good introduction to someone completely new to them, before numerous examples of how to apply them within the mix are provided.
Huge topics of stereo width and then using reverb and send effects to address the width and depth of the mix are then explored, showing how free plugin Imager 2 can be used to visualise, control and also apply width to sounds. There’s also a guide to using delays to add width manually, as well as a number of other 3rd-party widening plugins. Reflected sound is then added to individual sounds via insert reverb, and then compared to send reverb, where all sounds in the mix can be placed into the same virtual space, which is further analysed carefully for frequency content.
The final main lecture tackles master channel processing, mostly dealing with compression and EQ, from light application to more aggressive techniques like multi-band compression. Some ‘pro tips’ on examining the stereo information on the master channel and controlling it with mid-side EQ complete the main body of the course, before Rob delivers a series of useful suggestions for kit and practices that will help produce a robust and well rounded mix.
Enrolling on the course provides nearly 5 hours of streamed tutorials, as well as all the accompanying course materials, which include Ableton Live projects and stems from the lessons. Sign up now to start learning essential mixing fundamentals and elevate your production abilities today!
£
29
.95*
Producertech
Compression Fundamentals
Compression is one of the most essential aspects of producing music, ensuring tracks have consistent dynamics and loudness levels that meet professional standards. On this comprehensive course from Senior Tutor Rob Jones, you’ll learn the main principles behind the technique, plus a tonne of different methods for how to apply it.
The course begins with a demonstration of how compression affects an audio signal, before moving into a series of lessons covering each of the main parameters. Once the theory is covered, Rob moves into his first realtime Compression Session, starting work on the course project by showing how to process the snare and leads.
The second half of the course then focuses on more advanced techniques, including sidechain options, peak and RMS detection, parallel processing and multi-band compression. Again, after the theory is explained, Rob develops each technique further in another realtime Compression Session.
Signing up to the course provides instant access to 3 hours of streamed tutorials, as well as the projects and samples featured in them, plus written notes to refer to and assist in the learning process. There is even an included assessment, complete with listening exercises to help with technical ear training.
Check out the free sample module for an example of the lesson content before signing up to the course, which will have you mastering compression and fattening up your mixes in no time!
£
19
.95*
Producertech
Beginner's Guide to Music Production in Ableton Live
Ableton Live is one of the most popular DAWs around, loved for its flexibility and intuitive workflow. On this brand new course from Senior Tutor and Ableton Certified Trainer Rob Jones, you’ll go from first steps with the software right through to exporting a final arrangement, and everything in between!
The course is suitable for all ages and abilities, taking students through all of the main areas of the software slowly and clearly, to help forge a thorough understanding of the different ways music can be made. Once setting up the software has been covered, Rob embarks on two hour-long lectures focussed purely on working with audio samples in session and arrangement view, respectively, showing how to lay out simple song structures in each. He then moves onto MIDI, explaining the fundamentals of working with instruments and demonstrating the numerous ways of producing melodic accompaniment.
The subsequent lessons then develop skills for editing and track building in the arrangement, as well as teaching how to create beats with Drum Racks, how to record audio and the basics of mixing, covering balancing, panning and applying a number of different effects. Other topics featured include using 3rd-party plugins, sampling with Simpler, assigning MIDI controllers, and even some bonus tutorials on working with Loopmasters Loopcloud.
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to confidently work with audio samples and MIDI instruments in Ableton, whether making simple backing beats for performing with session view or more fleshed out songs in the arrangement.
The 10 hours of streamed tutorials come with the projects from the modules, plus written notes providing a neat summary of the content of each lesson, along with a bonus 500MB pack of samples from Loopmasters to kick start your personal sample library! In addition, there are assignments at certain stages throughout the course, with extra materials provided for practicing all of the different techniques learned in the tutorials.
Check out the sample module for an example of the teaching style and course content, so you can see for yourself how much there is to learn from Rob’s experience and software knowledge, which will have you on the road to becoming a serious music producer in no time!
£
99
.95*
Jafunk
Pro Mixing Masterclass
The mixing process is a hugely important final stage of producing a track and is necessary to add the professional touches that make your music sound sweet! In this compact masterclass, producer Jafunk concisely delivers all the techniques required to transform a mix, as he works through the sounds in his popular track ‘Fool For You’.
Starting with the drums, Jafunk looks at all the individual processing like bass enhancement, saturation and EQ, as well as delay for adding width, before moving onto send effects and bus compression. He then works his way through the melodic sounds, beginning with bass and synths then moving onto guitar and FX, again focussing on level balancing, frequency shaping and stereo imaging.
Although a few 3rd party plugins are incorporated in places, the majority of techniques are carried out with DAW (Ableton Live) factory devices and can be easily transferred over to other DAWs.
Signing up to this masterclass provides instant access to over an hour of streamed tutorials, as well as a delicious pack of bonus Funk samples from Loopmasters. Check out the sample module for an example of Jafunk’s clear and concise teaching approach, as he imparts the essential mixing tips needed to make your mixes sound professional.
£
9
.95*
Seppa
Advanced Bass Music Production Techniques 2
With its gigantic basslines and seriously heavy beats, Bass Music is regarded as amongst the most challenging genres to produce, requiring a substantial amount of knowledge and technical precision. Thankfully, one of the top producers in the field, Seppa, has returned to the Producertech community to deliver his second set of tutorials on Advanced Bass Music Techniques, sharing his accumulated experience from the last 12 years of producing professionally, so help is very much at hand!
The course begins with a series of sound design tutorials, showing how Seppa creates his varied palette of melodic and textured sounds from which the bulk of his tracks are constructed. These include 2 serious bass patches, both built from scratch with Serum and then processed with a wide range of 3rd-party and factory DAW plugins, as well as a custom delayed and pitched FX composition, which uses a default synth patch used as the basis. The final sound design session then shows how to transform an old vinyl sample into digital gold!
In the next section, Seppa moves onto beats, beginning by designing the main kick and snare, then combining them with an assortment of percussion samples, which are sequenced into a trio of solid breaks. The beats are mixed and laid out in the arrangement, forming the backbone of the first main drop section.
The last part of the course sees Seppa guiding through a lengthy series of arrangement tutorials, starting by building a fat drop and 2 accompanying variations. Textures are applied from the sound palette, as extra layers for the drums and bass, whilst melodies are added to the last passage, to form the beginnings of the first breakdown. This is then developed into a second drop, which extends the ideas from the first half, and the arrangement is then completed and any mixing issues and improvements addressed.
Signing up to the course gives you immediate access to the streamed tutorials, as well as the Ableton Live project created on the course and a 100MB bonus pack of Bass Music samples from Loopmasters. Check out the sample module before signing up and listen to the arrangement from the course, both embedded on the course page, so you can see and hear for yourself the quality of Seppa’s music and broad depth of knowledge imparted in his tutorials.
Producertech · Seppa Advanced Bass Music Production Techniques 2 - Course Track
£
29
.95*
Producertech
Producing Liquid D&B - Creatures Pro Tips
Creatures returns to Producertech for his second Drum & Bass Course, this time focusing on the ever popular subgenre of Liquid, and he’s gifted us with a plethora of tips and tricks for taking tracks to a professional level. This is an intermediate to advanced course, for those who are already well versed in music production and Drum & Bass; a straightforward course focused on providing the producer with a variety of techniques for embellishing and improving their tracks.
The course consists of four lessons, centred around four key areas: Musicality & Theory, Sampling & Sound Design, Developing the Track and finally the Arrangement. Combining all the knowledge from these modules leaves the producer with a fully formed and professional track.
Creatures kick-starts the course by explaining the importance of melody in Liquid. The eponymous rhythm section of Drum & Bass are not the main focus here! After a quick guide to the drums so far, he then walks through the two main melodic sounds - the sub bass and hook/chords chops - before going on the hunt for supporting melodic material in the same key. Samples are introduced to the groove, which are processed with chorus, delays, reverbs and pitch-shifters, to help the sample fit sonically with the rest of the track.
After discussing the benefits of finding your own samples as opposed to sourcing them from sample packs, module 3 continues with refining and improving the samples from the second module, with further processing and creative FX tips. Creatures then finishes up the course with a lengthy look at the arrangement, implementing the structure of the track, including an intro, outro and breakdown sections, while using filters and other FX to transition between these sections smoothly. He finishes off the track with some EQing, compression and some groove-inducing sidechaining.
Enrolling provides instant access to the 1.5 hours of streamed lessons, along with the stems from the track made on the course, in addition to a bonus pack of Liquid D&B samples for trying out the techniques learned in the lessons; a wealth of information and materials to get you well on the road to producing your first Liquid D&B anthem!
£
12
.95*
Producertech
Beginner's Guide to Song Arranging
Making loops and jamming with musical ideas, although fun, can be a trap we get stuck in all too often, sometimes finding it hard to get out of ‘loop mode’ and start putting an actual track together. On this course, you’ll be provided with the knowledge required to gain a good understanding of how music is arranged, from how and why song sections are structured, to specific techniques for improving the arrangement.
The course begins with a detailed look at 2 successful tracks in varying styles, one a vocal-based pop track and the other a Tech House banger! The arrangements are completely broken down and scrutinised, then a summary of the main similarities and differences is given, with an explanation of why each song is arranged the way it is.
The subsequent modules then show the main stages of building up an arrangement, starting with the beats and creating drum fills, then introducing melodic parts and discussing the hierarchy and placement of each. Introduction, breakdown and drop sections are then laid out, showing the main concepts behind a breakdown and different methods for achieving it. Sections are then bolstered with additional layers to support the melodies and create more engagement, including vocal textures and chords.
The latter part of the course focuses heavily on FX, starting with samples that are used to enhance definition and flow, and then moving on to devices like reverb and delay, used to add character and depth, as well as improve transitions. More advanced techniques like automation and send effects are covered that, although technically more challenging, are explained slowly and clearly so that even those with little experience should be able to follow along without issues. There is also some focus on tonality and tuning, working out the key of parts and the track, and exploring other keys to move to temporarily during the arrangement.
By the end of the course, students should have a good idea of the necessary considerations and different approaches to arranging a track, ultimately helping construct clear goals to work to when making music. Signing up grants immediate access to almost 3 hours of tutorials, plus supporting materials like written guides and software projects, providing all the teachings and support needed to start arranging quality music of your own.
£
19
.95*
Producertech
EQ Fundamentals
Equalisation is one of the most essential skills to master when mixing a track, and having a solid understanding of the core principles that govern its usage is tantamount to creating a professional-sounding mix. On this course from certified trainer Rob Jones, you’ll be taken through each of the fundamentals of EQ, so you come away armed with the knowledge and direction you need to confidently apply equalisation in your music.
As EQ is about shaping frequencies, many areas of the course focus on the composition of sounds, to help students fully understand each part of the frequency spectrum and what exactly it contributes to different musical parts. The course is peppered with a multitude of ‘frequency demos’, as well as practical production examples, to ensure a thorough grasp of frequencies is attained.
Once all the key aspects of spectral content and main types of EQ have been taught, there are lessons showing how to EQ a number of different sounds in a track, both independently and with respect to one another. Sources shown include vocals, guitar parts, bass, piano, organs and other accompaniment. There is also a module dedicated to drums, which conveys some important considerations for EQing your kick drum, snare and cymbals, as well as the whole kit together on a drums buss.
A specific focus is also given to mixing bass, with a module looking at a number of different kick and bass combinations, to help with achieving the all important tight bottom end.
After covering EQ on the master channel, the course wraps up with a summary of the provided practice material, which includes 2 separate sets of stems, given both as raw audio and mixed and unmixed projects for a number of the main DAWs. With this wealth of material, plus a multiple choice assessment at the end of the course, students can be assured they’ll have everything necessary to progress their EQ skills to the next level!
£
19
.95*
Jafunk
Pro Arranging Masterclass
Once you’ve got a fully-fledged groove locked down, the ability to expand it out into a complete arrangement can sometimes seem a challenging process. In this course from Producertech resident tutor and professional producer Jafunk, you’ll learn a multitude of concepts for how to approach this task, from the development of harmony, to the flow of energy and everything in between.
Jafunk uses his recent, popular release ‘Nightlife’ as the example for the course, where he fully breaks down every aspect of the track. The first lesson provides an explanation of the concepts covered on the course, followed by an overview of how the track is structured. Subsequent to this is a detailed exploration of the theory and instrumental arranging, showing how every part in the song is carefully orchestrated into its own space in the mix.
Once a thorough outline of the musical composition of the track has been provided, Jafunk shows how the initial loop was conceived by the building up of individual components, and then how each of those parts is developed through the arrangement. Certain sections are constructed so as to tell a particular story or paint a scene, whilst others are led by harmony and musical ideas.
As well as garnering a good understanding of how to structure a vocal pop or dance track in terms of sections, the course helps with learning about energy management throughout a song and how to successfully transition from one section to the next. The latter goes into both textural and classic dance techniques, such as the use of FX and automation, as well as more musical approaches, with certain instruments also helping to build and release tension.
Enrolling on the course gives you instant access to over an hour of concise and technique-rich, streamed tutorials, in addition to the project from the course and MIDI files for the track, and even a bonus pack of Jafunk’s samples to add to your collection - the perfect set of lessons and materials to help inspire and guide you to making solid arrangements of your own.
£
12
.99*
Producertech
Beginner's Guide to Audio Effects
With such a wide range of audio effects on offer when producing, it can seem like a monumental task as a beginner to figure out what they all do! This course aims to make that task infinitely simpler by guiding you through all of the most popular effects, broken down into the main categories and with a plethora of examples to help with both understanding and putting them into practice.
The course begins by explaining what an insert effect is and the concept of serial processing, before going into some of the main reasons for applying effects, including changing the timbre of a sound, making its level more consistent and placing it into a virtual space to add extra dimensions to the mix.
After these initial principles have been fully outlined, the tutorials then step through the main effects in more detail, starting with the most common insert effects, EQ and compressor, whilst also looking at other popular effects in the same categories, such as filter and gate. The next module then focuses on two of the most popular effects for adding extra sound into the mix, reverb and delay, explaining in detail what they do to a signal and the various ways of using them to process sounds.
Following on from this, there is a comprehensive look at stereo processing, to help with understanding what it means for a signal to be stereo and to have properties like width, as well as how to create and control that property. With that knowledge, it becomes substantially easier to comprehend how reverb and delay affect stereo content and what some of the more complex modulation effects like chorus, flanger and phaser do.
The last module then moves on to the final category of distortion effects, guiding through amp and pedal devices, before continuing to explore overdrive and saturator. There are demonstrations of the range of processing these effects can provide, from raucous and transformative to much subtler but still hugely significant.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a much improved knowledge of why, when and how to use a wide range of different effects in music production. So enrol now to get instant access to nearly 4 hours of streamed tutorials, along with software projects and a helpful pdf guide, to get your production learning journey off the ground and start confidently using audio effects today!
£
29
.95*
Seppa
Sub Bass Masterclass
One of the most challenging aspects of electronic music production is the bottom end of the mix. When producing any styles, but especially the louder or harder ones, a thorough understanding of bass frequencies is essential if you want to deliver a track with a professional sound that packs a punch whilst sounding clean and clear.
Producertech’s resident Bass Music specialist has stepped up to create a comprehensive masterclass on the subject. With 15 years plus experience as a producer, record label boss and tutor, he brings a wealth of knowledge, conveyed in an articulate manner that’s easily accessible to all.
If you want to learn what the frequencies at the bottom end entail, to understand how sub frequency fundamentals and harmonics are created and managed in various styles of popular music, this course is for you!
The lessons go from the very top, with an explanation and analysis of bass frequencies, combining with various sound design examples that show how to make sub and full range bass patches on 2 of today’s most popular synths: Vital and Phaseplant. (All techniques are transferrable to other synths like Serum, Massive or DAW factory instruments.) Seppa then provides a module dedicated solely to the relationship between kick and bass, showing several different approaches to making them work harmoniously in the mix.
The second half of the course then moves onto genre production, looking at how bass is handled in Dubstep, House and Drum & Bass. A number of different bassline approaches are included, with sustained sub bass patterns contrasting with longer, more melodic phrases with punchy transients, to show the differences between the two. The lessons then wrap up with a summary of sub levels on the master channel in all three styles, giving a guide to the main objectives to aim for.
Enrolling on the course provides instant access to 5 hours of streamed tutorials, along with the projects and stems from the lessons, so you can more closely inspect the course material if you need to. Sign up now to start learning from the best, becoming a sub bass master and tightening up your mixes today!
£
49
.95*
Producertech
Bassline Fundamentals
Bassline composition knowledge is a huge part of producing electronic music, ensuring that the low end of a track is delivering the necessary components that complete the groove. On this series of courses, you’ll learn the fundamentals of bassline creation from the ground up, covering all the principles and theory, as well as a wide range of techniques and specific examples that put everything into practice.
On this first part designed for beginners, the main focuses are the cornerstones of any bassline, which are its rhythm and pitch. By the end of the course, you’ll have a good understanding of the core aspects of timing of a bassline along with the different pitches it can play, all of which can be applied in a wide range of styles.
The rhythm module starts at the very beginning with the main note timings and demonstrations of how to create a continuous bassline with a fixed speed, showing workflows for working with samples on audio tracks in addition to within sampler instruments on MIDI tracks, explaining the differences and pros and cons of each method. Concepts like syncopation are then explained as patterns are made by repeating rhythmic motifs with varying levels, which are expanded to form longer phrases at the end of the module, taking a single oneshot sample right up to a 4-bar bassline.
At the start of the next module, a number of 1-bar basslines are added to a fixed chord loop, to show how different complimentary rhythms and octave shifts can create a series of contrasting grooves. One of the basslines is then expanded in the subsequent lesson to produce multiple 4- and 8- bar bassline examples that explore the relationship between the bassline and chords loop, as they both either remain static or move to different pitches, to understand how the harmony of the song is affected as a result. The last lesson changes up the style as a string of funky, live-sounding, melodic basslines in G minor are made, emulating a real bass guitar player through the handling of pitch and also level and timing editing techniques that create a more natural sound.
Signing up to the course gets you immediate access to the streamed tutorials, along with all the projects from the course and a selection of bonus bass samples to practice with; the complete package to take you from zero understanding to someone who can competently construct interesting and dynamic basslines in the key of your music.
£
19
.95*
Producertech
Pro Remixing Techniques #2 - Future Funk Squad
Remixing is a central feature of music production, allowing songs to be reshaped into completely different genres from their own. The art form requires a lot of consideration and can be a delicate balancing act between new and existing material, in the attempt to stay faithful to the original track whilst creating something with your own unique sound.
In the second course of the series, Glen Nicholls aka Future Funk Squad returns to the Producertech community to share his wealth of knowledge on the topic, having remixed the likes of The Prodigy, The Crystal Method, Nine Inch Nails and many more. On the course, he works through all of the main areas of focus, as he reworks the stems from Surround Me by Franky Scarlet featuring Ruth Royall into a driving Synthwave track.
Glen begins with a play-through of the original, then a look at the various stems, explaining which ones he plans to use and why. Then, he dives straight into the arrangement, beginning by creating the main groove, with a chunky drum break and classic Moog bassline. The original parts are chopped up to accompany the groove, with the vocal leading the different sections of the track.
In the subsequent production sessions, the chorus is beefed up by shifting to faster rhythms and additional melodies, whilst new synths are used to make background pads, old school arps and plucky leads. Choruses are separated by a breakdown and the arrangement is fleshed out with extra fills for definition and percussion to fatten up the main groove.
Throughout the modules, Glen mixes continuously as the track develops, processing sounds with EQ, compression, reverb, delay and more, directly on channels as well as via send effects on auxiliary tracks. The last module finishes off the mixing with a final review of the levels and frequencies in the mix, to make sure everything is hitting where it needs to.
Enrolling on the course provides instant access to the streamed tutorials, as well as a bonus 100MB pack of Synthwave samples from Loopmasters, providing the skills and materials you need to get making quality remixes today!
Before enrolling, check out the final release of the track on Spotify...
£
19
.95*
Singo Psy
Singomakers Complete Psytrance Production
Singomakers are one of the leaders of the Psytrance Music industry - their samples have been used in tracks of legendary artists like KSHMR, Marnik, Berg, Billx & Mat Weasel Busters, Blastoyz, Omiki and released on a world’s leading Psytrance labels like Iboga Records, DHARMA, Iono Music, TIP Records, Dragonfly Records, HOMMega Productions and performed at the biggest festivals around the world! Now, Singomakers are very proud to share with you their experience and knowledge.
This unique and absolutely exclusive Complete Psytrance Production Course contains more than 5 hours of videos, consisting of 37 lessons: the first 35 being sound design and mixing techniques for creating different psy elements, culminating in the final 2 lessons that show how to build a Psytrance track from scratch using those elements and then mix and master it. Learn the secrets of Mixing, Mastering, Sound Design, Creation of a Track From Scratch, Ideas for Inspiration and more!
In these tutorials you'll find many 100%-exclusive tips and tricks from the best Singomakers sound engineers, that you won’t find anywhere on the internet for free! You will also discover many tricks for how to make your sound Fat and Dynamic, Present and Powerful but Super-wide at same time; Loud, Clear, Diverse and Professional!
All chapters are available to purchase and ready to stream instantly directly from your account. Don't miss this ultimate chance to push your Psytrance music production skills and step up to the NEXT LEVEL!
ENJOY!
**In these videos Singomakers are using plugins from Sonic Academy, Voxengo, Fabfilter, A.O.M. Factory, Xfer Records, Valhalla, Cableguys, Izotope, Reveal Sound, U-he, Native Instruments, Waves, Singomakers, Vital Audio, Ben Schulz, MeldaProduction, Vengeance Sound, zplane, SoundToys, A1AUDIO, Lindell audio, Sugar Bytes, Lexicon, Oeksound, MathewLane, Soundtheory but all this settings and tricks can be applied in any DAW to any other plugins.
Any references to any brands on this site/page, including reference to brands and instruments, are provided for description purposes only. For example references to instrument brands are provided to describe the sound of the instrument and/or the instrument used in the sample. Loopmasters do not have (nor do they claim) any association with or endorsement by these brands. Any goodwill attached to those brands rest with the brand owner. Loopmasters or its Suppliers do not accept any liability in relation to the content of the sample or the accuracy of the description.
£
49
.95*
Producertech
Lofi Hip Hop Production Techniques
UK Producer El Train has been making big waves in the Lofi Hiphop scene in recent years, with his fusion of Hip Hop, Soul, RnB and Trap landing him releases on labels like Kitsuné, Darker than Wax and Jakarta Records. On this course, he shows how to build up a quality arrangement from scratch, using samples from his Loopmasters pack and working mainly with factory instruments and effects in Logic Pro, with all techniques being easily transferrable to other DAWs.
El Train begins the course by explaining the importance of using templates to improve workflow and creativity. He then jumps straight into creating the drums, using samples and quantisation to keep them free, loose and organic sounding. He then embellishes this rhythmic basis with live-recorded percussion, as well as showing the effectiveness of using background atmospherics.
Moving on to the melodic elements of the track, El Train explores chord progressions and layering to build the harmonic backbone of the arrangement. He then records live bass, and discusses the best ways to create a convincing but interesting bassline. He continues the live recording process with some short and simple vocals, and explains how to transform and mould them into musically significant points in the track.
The course ends with a lesson on arrangement, showing how to keep your music interesting and evolving, how to pick out key moments in the track and when to use them.
Signing up gets you immediate access to the streamed tutorials, plus the project from the course and a bonus pack of samples from Al Train’s label Tone Kitchn. Check out the sample module before signing up for an example of El Train’s laid back and informative style, imparting valuable techniques and inspiration to kick start your own Lofi Hiphop production journey.
Producertech · Lofi Hip Hop Production Course Track Bounce - El Train
£
19
.95*
Producertech
Breakbeat Production Techniques with Future Funk Squad
Future Funk Squad (AKA Glen Nicholls) is a Dance Music and Sound Design icon and has been in the industry for over 20 years. He has released 3 albums to date: Audio Damage (2006), Disorders of Skill (2009) & the award-winning Darker Days (2014), and has remixed the likes of The Prodigy, Massive Attack, UNKLE, Nine Inch Nails, The Crystal Method, Hybrid to name but a few. Alongside this, he is a Sound Designer working in TV & Film, having produced music & sound for such projects as TNT’s The Alienist and many independent films, and frequently collaborates with Composer Rupert Gregson-Williams, who has scored many Hollywood blockbusters.
Joining us at Producertech for the first time, Future Funk Squad has created an all-encompassing crash course in writing, producing, mixing and mastering, that will take you from the drawing board to a professional arrangement in just a few hours.
Kicking off proceedings with some heavy break samples, chunky drums and funky basslines, he then begins to build out the track. Slowly adding more and more elements to enrich the music, he explains along the way when and how to use certain elements, like atmospherics, transitional risers, and what sort of frequencies these elements should be occupying.
He then begins to arrange the individual elements into something that resembles a track, experimenting along the way, and trying out a number of different options to optimise the impact and pacing of the song.
Future Funk Squad’s sound design and mixing expertise comes to the fore when he explains and demonstrates his mixing process, which involves committing to the arrangement by working with exported stems. He then finishes up with a quick-fire mastering tutorial and leaves you with a fully-finished, release-standard track.
Enrolling on the course gets you immediate access to the streamed tutorials, plus the Logic project from the lessons and a bonus pack of Breaks samples from Loopmasters. Enrol now to join Future Funk Squad in his studio and acquire fresh production knowledge and materials to start making quality Breakbeat tracks today!
£
29
.95*
Jafunk
Funk Bass Production Masterclass
Producing basslines with all the soulfulness and funk of a skilled bassist can be tricky without any knowledge of how to put them together. Understanding the theory and composition, as well as how to jam and perform with a keyboard, will transform the process into something that not only produces great results but is also a lot of fun!
On this course from Jafunk, you’ll learn both the methodology behind playing basslines and the subsequent processing required to ensure the bass sounds professional and cuts through the mix.
The first half of the 2-hour course is devoted to the theory and playing styles, broken down into easily digestible chunks to allow for easier absorbing and practicing of every technique. Lessons include tips for learning keys and scales, mastering intervals like octaves and fifths, with chromatic inflections, pitch bends and slides, chords and key modulation, and lots more.
By the end of part 1, you’ll have learned all of the fundamental theory needed to play seriously funky bass on a MIDI keyboard, with numerous examples shown along the way, to help cement your understanding.
Part 2 then delves into the production side, beginning with synth patch editing and then exploring each of the plugins in Jafunk’s bass FX chain, which includes saturation, bass maximisation, series and parallel compression, and EQ. There is also a bonus section looking at processing recorded bass guitar, including some audio editing and gating techniques, followed by the ways FX processing differs to synth bass.
Enrolling on the course gets you instant access to the streamed tutorials, plus Jafunk’s practice Ableton Live project and MIDI clips from the theory section, along with a bonus pack of bass samples for adding to your collection; all you need to get making quality funk basslines today!
£
19
.95*
Paul Maddox
Raw Techno Production Techniques
Techno legend Paul Maddox, one half of Spektre and resident course creator, returns to deliver a new set of tutorials on producing raw Techno in Ableton Live. With a wealth of production and teaching experience combined with an extensive knowledge of the software, these tutorials are a must-have for anyone wanting to learn the essentials for making heavy Techno tracks of their own.
On the course, Paul shows the fundamentals for building up a techno track, through 2 separate groove examples, with increasing intensity. The first groove has a deeper and dubbier vibe, with a hypnotic, tribal bass and filtered piano stab, whilst the second is an even more full-on, super high energy track with a wonky synth lead line driving the groove.
All the parts are made using factory samples from Live’s library, mostly 707s, with an additional foley recording from Paul’s collection, whilst melodic parts are designed from the ground up using Sampler and Wavetable. As well as learning how to design and sequence parts, you’ll acquire a wealth of mixing knowledge and some different approaches to creating an arrangement, with both manual layout and timeline recording included.
Signing up to the course gives you immediate access to over 2 hours of streamed tutorials, along with the projects made and a 100MB bonus pack of Techno samples from Loopmasters. Check out the free sample lesson before signing up, for an example of Paul’s clear teaching style and technique-laden video content, which will enrich your production skillset and have you making Techno bangers in no time!
£
19
.95*
Simon Shackleton
Essential Beats Production Techniques Part 2
Drums lay at the core of every good track, providing the rhythmic energy and beating heart of the music. Making sure that those drums are solid and satisfying is therefore an essential part of producing high quality tracks. On this in-depth course, experienced producer Simon Shackleton will take you on a journey as he builds up a number of complete grooves from the ground up, explaining every decision meticulously along the way.
This second part of the course moves onto 2 new genres, looking this time at Nu Disco and Electronica or Breakbeat. Like the first part, the lessons go in detail through each process of constructing the beat with a large palette of samples, beginning with a core loop or main drums like kick and snare. Individual drums are designed by layering of numerous oneshots, carefully selected and then blended, using different processing to ensure each part fits together seamlessly and adds its own unique elements into the mix.
Straight and top loops are made, through the skilful combining of loops, chopped up initially to select only the desired segments and then inserted into 2- and 4- bar phrases, to create the backbone of the drums, as well as higher frequency textures to add pace and excitement. Send reverb is employed, which is also automated to create occasional ‘spot FX’ that permeate and spice up the break.
All sounds and groups are meticulously mixed and mastered as the drums develop, with complex effects chains utilised to shape and polish the sound. Devices include regular, dynamic and mid/side EQ, parallel compression, saturation and width control, all used to ensure every part of the break has the required substance and isn’t adding any unwanted components into the mix.
Once you’ve enrolled on the course, you’ll have instant 24/7 access to 4 hours of streamed tutorials, as well as downloads of the projects from each module, and finally a bonus pack of drum samples from Loopmasters. Sample modules are available as examples of the course style and content, so you can see how articulate and engaging a tutor Simon is before signing up. Enrol now to start learning from a master in the field and turbo charge your beats production knowledge today!
£
29
.95*
Jafunk
Pro Vocal Production Masterclass
Talented and prolific producer Jafunk has returned to the Producertech community to give another masterclass on an area of his expertise, namely vocal production. In this set of tutorials, he’ll take you through all the techniques involved in going from raw recordings to polished and perfectly mixed vocals, using his recent track ‘You Got Me’.
Beginning with a number of suggestions for how to go about achieving a high quality recording, Jafunk then dives straight into the project, initially looking at corrective procedures for improving the timing and pitch of vocal takes, by manually editing and using the 3rd-party plugin Melodyne. He then moves onto setting levels and panning layers, to achieve a strong but pleasantly spread vocal.
After all parts are sufficiently synchronised, tuned and sounding as one, he moves onto vocal enhancement, working through each of the plugins used to add the polish and professional touches that elevate the vocal in the mix. Signals are compressed and saturated, sibilance is removed and width and depth are applied with delay and reverb. Once Nick’s voice has been treated, Jafunk shows how similar processing can be applied to Dana’s voice, so that both vocalists are made to inhabit the same space and the track has a unified sound.
In addition to the streamed tutorials, signing up to the course provides 115MB of bonus vocal samples, giving you additional sounds for your own library and materials to practice your newly-acquired techniques with. Before signing up, check out the track from the course below...
Jafunk · You Got Me
£
9
.95*
Singomakers DnB
Singomakers Presents Drum & Bass Production Course
Producertech are happy to present another course from quality label Singomakers, on ADVANCED Drum & Bass Music Production!
5 Hours of Secrets and Tips for Mixing, Mastering, Sound Design, Creation of a Track From Scratch, Ideas for Inspiration and more!
Here you will discover many tricks on how to make your sound Fat and Dynamic, Present and Powerful, how to create Catchy Arrangements and unique and interesting Sounds!
In these videos Singomakers are using plugins from Sonic Academy, Voxengo, Fabfilter, A.O.M. Factory, Xfer Records, DMGAudio, Sample Magic, Valhalla, Softube, Audified, D16, Cableguys, Eventide, Arturia, Izotope, Camel Audio, Kush Audio, UVI, Reveal Sound, U-he, IK Multimedia but all this settings and tricks can be applied in any DAW to any other plugins.
In detail expect to find 33 Episodes – 5 hours of video tutorials, including:
26 Sound Design Videos (creation of Basses, Leads, Pads, Kicks, Snares, FX and more)
3 DNB Drops & Track Arrangement from Scratch videos
Phat Bass Processing Video
Mixing DNB Basses
Drum & Bass Beats Dynamics
Drum & Bass Mastering Video
Don’t miss this ultimate chance to improve your Drum & Bass music production skills and step to the NEXT LEVEL!
REQUIREMENTS/PREREQUESITES:
• Serum (for all sound design modules) - a good knowledge of the synth is recommended
• a DAW e.g. Ableton Live or Logic Pro - a competent ability is recommended so techniques can be easily replicated
Sample Module - Bass Sounds Design 01
£
39
.95*
Seppa
Making Samples Your Own
With sampling techniques forming the basis of so much of today’s music, having a trusted sample collection to hand is a great way of speeding up your workflow and defining your sound. On this course from experienced producer and sound designer Seppa, you’ll learn an abundance of methods for modifying samples in various ways, to polish the sound or create completely unique textures of your own.
The course begins by transforming a vocal sample into an atmospheric FX soundscape using parallel delay chains and spectral resonance, as well as a modified version that maintains more of the character of the original sample. A regular piano is then used as the source for a modulating, filtered lead, perfect for the intro or breakdown of a track.
Seppa then builds an effects chain for processing various drum breaks, to tend to the dynamics, transients and spectral content, so they’re 100% ready for dropping into a track. On a more radical note, simple drum oneshots are run through multiple randomised devices to completely mix things up and produce endless captivating moments, ideal for making interesting fills and adding excitement to an arrangement.
There are also lessons on rhythm-mapping, where the dynamics of one sample are used to shape the frequencies of another, creating a DIY vocoder-style effect. Whether you’re looking to make the most of your samples, acquire some new inspiration for sound design without synthesisers, or improve your knowledge of audio effects processing, this course will deliver a wealth of techniques to up your game!
Sign up today to get instant access to 3 hours of streamed tutorials, plus the Ableton Live project Seppa builds along the way, as well as a bonus 50MB pack of samples for your own manipulating pleasure!
£
29
.95*
Simon Shackleton
Essential Beats Production Techniques Part 1
Drums lay at the core of every good track, providing the rhythmic energy and beating heart of the music. Making sure that those drums are solid and satisfying is therefore an essential part of producing high quality tracks. On this in-depth course, experienced producer Simon Shackleton will take you on a journey as he builds up a number of complete grooves from the ground up, explaining every decision meticulously along the way.
The first part of the course focuses on a Jackin’ House or Tech House beat, starting with the kick, which is designed using a combination of samples and sub bass, before moving on to the accompanying hats and snares. A large selection of loops are hand-picked, chopped-up and artfully combined, using effects within custom-made channel strips to carry out the various processing required.
Claps are then added to the groove, with 2 different workflows demonstrated. The first is a simple but highly effective do-it-yourself approach that includes recording claps, then editing the clips together to form a multi-layered, continually varying clap. The second meanwhile, shows a quicker technique that involves a 3rd-party plugin.
Additional layers of percussion are then incorporated, with a jackin' loop initially to add syncopation and interesting textures, followed by high frequency shakers and tambourine, designed to be used in isolation or combination as desired. The final module then delves into methods for applying ‘layers of intrigue’, meaning extra samples for fills and breakdowns, and various ways of using both insert and send effect processing to create depth, anticipation and much more!
Once you’ve enrolled on the course, you’ll have instant 24/7 access to 4 hours of streamed tutorials, as well as downloads of the projects from each module, and finally a bonus pack of drum samples from Loopmasters. Sample modules are available as examples of the course style and content, so you can see how articulate and engaging a tutor Simon is before signing up. Enrol now to start learning from a master in the field and turbo charge your beats production knowledge today!
£
29
.95*
Ellie Dixon
Alt Pop Production Techniques
2-time winner of the NMG Best Female Solo Award Ellie Dixon has been featured on BBC 6 Music, ITV News and Glamour Magazine YouTube Channel. With recent singles garnering hundreds of thousands of plays on Spotify and social media channels blowing up, her ability to make Alternative Pop that captures the minds and hearts of the masses is undeniable! On this course, Ellie takes you through the main steps to producing a magical Indie Pop chorus from scratch.
The course starts by putting together the main hook and beats, to establish the foundations of the track, before a bassline is created by combining guitar with a synthesized layer from Logic’s Sculpture. The beats are then bolstered and processed with various effects to fatten up the groove. Following this, Ellie incorporates percussion sounds from multiple objects in her immediate environment, to add quirky rhythms and identifiable textures into the track.
Once the basic architecture of the chorus is in place, various melodic elements are incorporated using instruments in the DAW. These include electric and grand pianos, as well as a bell sound, which is shaped with effects and woven into a retro pop leadline. Parts are played in using a MIDI keyboard and some are bounced to audio so that additional editing and more precise arranging can be carried out.
The final 3-part module sees Ellie constructing each vocal track, beginning with the main vocal and then adding layer after layer of additional harmonies, using doubling and panning techniques to fill out the sound. Each part is edited and processed with effects to form a unified sound and sit comfortably in the mix.
Signing up to the course gets immediate access to the 2.5 hours of streamed tutorials, plus the project from the lessons and a bonus pack of Indie Pop samples from Loopmasters. Check out the sample module before signing up for an example of the course content and Ellie’s inspirational teaching style.
£
24
.95*