The Basics of Tracking a Session

• Setting up a tracking session
• Choosing mics and positioning them for the best sound
• EQing instrument sounds in the studio
• Choosing the right outboard gear and where to patch it in
• Setting up headphone mixes
• Keeping musicians inspired
• Tracking a session with Shawn and the band
• Auditioning different mics and processing chains
• Overdubbing instruments, multiple takes, and more

Mixing to Yield Professional-sounding Results

• Comping tracks — how to choose and assemble the best takes
• Editing and finessing tracks with Pro Tools and third-party plug-ins
• Prepping tracks for the mix session
• How and when to use compression, EQ, and effects
• Setting up a mix, including routing and grouping in your DAW
• Fine-tuning instruments with EQ and compression
• Employing automation to enhance the mixing process
• Connecting outboard gear across your mix bus
• Getting the most out of bus compression/processing
• Making the final tweaks — how to decide when the mix is done
• Deciding whether or not you need professional mastering
• Knowing what mixes and mix versions you need to send to mastering