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J. Anthony Allen

Welcome to the Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio.

This class is for anyone who has wanted to work in a recording studio. Especially:

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Welcome to the Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio.

This class is for anyone who has wanted to work in a recording studio. Especially:

  • Producers: If you are making tracks and want to get into a studio to record, this class is for you.

  • Aspiring Producers: If you are just getting started with music production, but dream of getting into a studio, this class is for you.

  • Musicians: If you are going to be recorded, you should understand how things work so you can help control the results of the recording.

  • Songwriters: Improve your compositions by understanding how to make unique and memorable sounds to use in your songs.

  • Engineers: If you have hopes of being an audio engineer in a recording studio one day, this is the first step in that journey.

In this class, we start with how to book time in a studio, and what to expect. Then we move on to running a whole session - how to connect everything, use the equipment, and more. I'll walk you through every step of the process and explain the logic behind every decision I make.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

The goal of this class is for you to be comfortable in the studio the next time (or first time. ) you find yourself in the studio.

Software:This course is NOT specific to any DAW program.Genre:The recording studio has no genre - so all are welcome here. You will see me working on a jazz project, but any genre and interest will benefit from this class.

Topics Covered: 

  • The Essential Tools of the Recording Studio

  • Studio Rules

  • Wrapping Cables

  • Normalizing The Room

  • Equipment in the Live Room

  • Equipment in the Control Room

  • Acoustics and Sound Diffusion

  • Signal Flow in the Studio

  • Monitor Speakers

  • Preamps

  • Choosing Preamps

  • Configuring Preamps

  • Microphones

  • Choosing Microphones

  • Dynamic Microphones

  • Condenser Microphones

  • Ribbon Microphones

  • The Patchbay

  • Patching A Session

  • Setting up a Session

  • Routing to Hearback

  • Headphone Mixes

  • Computer Settings

  • Record Settings in the Computer

  • Playback and Monitoring

  • Talkback

  • Software: Using Cakewalk, Garageband, Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro X, Cubase, Reaper, or any other application.

  • Principals of sound engineering

  • The art of home recording

  • And much, much more.

If you are ready to start making music in the studio, this is the class that will start you on that journey. Get started today.

Dr. Allen is a university music professor and is a top-rated Udemy instructor - with nearly 100 courses and over 300,000 students.

In 2017 Star Tribune Business featured him as a "Mover and a Shaker," and he is recognized by the Grammy Foundation for his music education classes. 

I guarantee that this course is the most thorough studio techniques course available ANYWHERE on the market - or your money back (30-day money-back guarantee)

Closed captions have been added to all lessons in this course.

Praise for Courses by Jason Allen:

⇢  "It seems like every little detail is being covered in an extremely simple fashion. The learning process becomes relaxed and allows complex concepts to get absorbed easily. My only regret is not taking this course earlier." - M. Shah

⇢  "Great for everyone without any knowledge so far. I bought all three parts... It's the best investment in leveling up my skills so far.." - Z. Palce

⇢  "Excellent explanations.  No more or less than what is needed." - A. Tóth

⇢  "VERY COOL. I've waited for years to see a good video course, now I don't have to wait anymore. Thank You. " - Jeffrey Koury

⇢  "I am learning LOTS.  And I really like having the worksheets. " - A. Deichsel

⇢  "The basics explained very clearly - loads of really useful tips. " - J. Pook

⇢  "Jason is really quick and great with questions, always a great resource for an online class. " M. Smith

Students who register for this course will receive ongoing exclusive content and discounts for all future classes in the series. 

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to navigate all the equipment of a professional recording studio.
  • General etiquette of a recording studio
  • How recording studios are designed
  • Acoustics and sound diffusion
  • Signal flow in a studio
  • Computer setup in a studio
  • Monitors, and monitor control
  • Preamps
  • Setting up preamps
  • Choosing preamps
  • Microphones
  • Choosing microphones
  • Dynamic microphones
  • Condensor microphones
  • Ribbon microphones
  • The patchbay
  • Studio playback
  • Talkback
  • Saving & exporting
  • Working a shared space
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Welcome to the Recording Studio!
Introduction
What We are Covering Here
Tools You Will Need for This Class
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers essential tools of the recording studio, which provides a strong foundation for beginners interested in music production and audio engineering
Explores acoustics and sound diffusion, which are unique perspectives that may add color to other topics and subjects related to music and audio
Examines signal flow in the studio, which is highly relevant to understanding audio routing and troubleshooting in a recording environment
Discusses microphone types and their uses, which develops core skills for recording engineers and producers in selecting appropriate microphones
Teaches the use of a patchbay, which helps learners understand signal routing and connectivity in a professional recording studio setting
Requires students to have access to a computer and recording software, which may pose a barrier to some students without access to these resources

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Reviews summary

Essential recording studio techniques

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation for understanding how a professional recording studio operates. Many praise the clear explanations of core concepts like signal flow and the patchbay, often cited as daunting topics made accessible by the instructor. Students appreciate the practical focus on studio etiquette and workflow, which builds confidence for entering a real studio environment. The course is described as comprehensive for beginners and aspiring engineers, covering essential equipment like microphones, preamps, and monitors in detail. While the online format naturally limits direct hands-on practice, students feel well-prepared to apply the theoretical knowledge.
Knowledgeable and effective teaching.
"The instructor clearly knows his stuff and teaches it well."
"His experience in the studio shines through in the examples."
"He answers questions quickly and thoroughly."
"Great teaching style, engaging and easy to follow."
Excellent for beginners entering the studio world.
"This was the perfect course to start learning about studio work."
"I had zero experience and now feel like I grasp the fundamentals."
"Covers all the necessary basic equipment and their uses."
"Highly recommended if you are just getting into recording."
Learn the realities of running a session.
"Knowing the studio rules and etiquette is incredibly valuable for someone new."
"The steps on setting up a session and routing audio were very practical."
"Understanding the workflow from live room to control room is crucial."
"This course prepared me for what to actually expect when I go to a studio."
Complex studio ideas are explained simply.
"The instructor made signal flow easy to understand, which was confusing before."
"Patchbays finally make sense after watching the lectures on them."
"He breaks down how different pieces of equipment work without jargon."
"I appreciated the clear diagrams and explanations of acoustic principles."
Online format restricts physical practice.
"You obviously can't get real studio practice online, but the theory is solid."
"Applying the patchbay concepts requires getting into a real studio."
"While informative, it makes me eager to get hands-on experience."
"More detailed video demos would help visualize the physical connections."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio with these activities:
Review Signal Flow Diagrams
Solidify your understanding of signal flow to make informed decisions when patching and routing audio in the studio.
Show steps
  • Find online resources explaining signal flow.
  • Draw signal flow diagrams for common studio setups.
  • Practice tracing signal paths in a virtual studio environment.
Study 'Modern Recording Techniques'
Deepen your understanding of audio recording principles and equipment operation to improve your studio skills.
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of 'Modern Recording Techniques'.
  • Focus on chapters related to microphones, preamps, and signal flow.
  • Experiment with the techniques described in the book.
Read 'The Recording Engineer's Handbook'
Gain a deeper understanding of recording techniques and studio equipment to enhance your skills in the recording studio.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Recording Engineer's Handbook'.
  • Read chapters relevant to the course topics.
  • Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Patchbay Configuration Exercises
Improve your proficiency with patchbays by practicing common routing scenarios.
Show steps
  • Create a list of common studio routing scenarios.
  • Simulate patching these scenarios on a virtual patchbay.
  • Verify the signal flow for each configuration.
Create a Studio Session Checklist
Develop a comprehensive checklist to ensure efficient and organized studio sessions.
Show steps
  • List all the tasks required before, during, and after a recording session.
  • Organize the tasks into a logical sequence.
  • Create a digital or physical checklist.
Record and Mix a Short Song
Apply the learned studio techniques by recording and mixing a song from start to finish.
Show steps
  • Select a song to record.
  • Record each instrument and vocal track.
  • Mix the tracks using appropriate EQ, compression, and effects.
  • Master the final mix.
Explore Advanced Mixing Tutorials
Refine your mixing skills by following advanced tutorials on EQ, compression, and effects processing.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on specific mixing techniques.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
  • Apply the learned techniques to your own mixes.

Career center

Learners who complete Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Audio Engineer
An audio engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of sound recording, mixing, and reproduction. The course, Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio, is an ideal starting point for someone wanting to pursue this path. The course's thorough coverage of studio equipment, signal flow, and microphone techniques is directly relevant to the daily tasks of an audio engineer. This course may be useful for those seeking to move into a professional studio setting as it builds a foundation in studio operations, from setting up a session to working the patchbay.
Music Producer
A music producer oversees the creative and technical aspects of recording music. The course, Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio, is well-suited for aspiring music producers. The course provides insight into how a studio works and how to utilize its tools effectively. Music producers must understand audio engineering techniques, and this class is a primer. The course also will help producers develop their ear by allowing them to take part in setup, recording, and playback processes in a recording studio.
Studio Technician
A studio technician is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of studio equipment. The course, Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio, provides those who are interested in working as a studio technician with an understanding of studios and their needs. The course will introduce a student to the technology used in recording studios. The thorough coverage of topics like signal flow, preamps, and microphones will be useful in helping the studio technician maintain equipment.
Recording Studio Manager
A recording studio manager oversees the daily operations of a recording studio. The Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course is beneficial for individuals looking to move into a management role. This course will help the manager develop a well-rounded understanding of the tools and techniques required to run a studio, including setting up sessions, managing the patchbay, and working with different audio equipment. With an understanding of the technology, the manager would be better able to provide support to their studio's clients.
Podcast Producer
A podcast producer is responsible for the creation of a podcast, including the recording of the audio. The podcast producer can apply the skills learned from Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio to record high-quality audio. The course covers topics such as microphone placement and studio setup, which are essential for a podcast producer. This course will help podcast producers create a quality recording, even if working from a home studio.
Audiobook Producer
An audiobook producer oversees the recording and production of audiobooks. Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio will help an audiobook producer understand the recording process. The course’s attention to microphone techniques and studio setup is directly applicable to audiobook production. An audiobook producer must also understand signal flow and studio technology to effectively manage a recording, and this course helps build that foundation.
Mixing Engineer
A mixing engineer balances and combines recorded audio tracks to create a cohesive and polished final product. While this course does not focus on mixing itself, courses like Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio are a strong foundation. The course's emphasis on signal flow, preamps, and the patchbay helps the mixing engineer understand how the recording process works. Knowing the ins and outs of a recording session will also help the mixing engineer make better decisions in post production.
Sound Designer
A sound designer creates and manipulates audio for various media, including film, video games, and theater. A course such as this one, Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio, may be helpful for those who want to move into sound design. Sound design work requires a comprehensive understanding of recording equipment, acoustics, and signal flow, all of which are covered in the course. The course's instruction on microphone selection and usage will also help the sound designer capture the appropriate sounds.
Post Production Audio Engineer
A post production audio engineer works on audio after the recording process. This course does not directly address post production techniques, however, the Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course helps build a foundation of understanding of how audio is recorded. A post production audio engineer needs to know how audio files are generated and have a technical understanding of the equipment used in the studio. This course will be useful for anyone starting on the path of post production audio engineering.
Live Sound Engineer
A live sound engineer manages the audio during live performances. While this course focuses on recording studio techniques, many of the skills taught are transferable to live sound settings. The Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course teaches concepts about signal flow, microphone techniques, and audio equipment which can provide a foundation. The course's modules on signal flow, preamps, and microphone selection will help those who want to become a live sound engineer.
Music Editor
A music editor works with recorded music to prepare it for use in various media. This course, Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio, can help those interested in music editing gain a deeper understanding of the workflows used in recording. The course teaches the basics of sound engineering and the equipment used in recording. This will be useful when a music editor needs to make decisions about how to handle the audio they are working with.
Mastering Engineer
A mastering engineer prepares the finished audio mix for distribution. The work of a mastering engineer is downstream of the recording process. Even though this course does not focus on mastering, a course like Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio may be helpful. The course's attention to detail about the recording process, especially regarding signal flow and audio equipment, helps set up the mastering process for success. This course offers a glimpse into recording workflows that mastering engineers must consider, as they put the final touches on a project.
Broadcast Engineer
A broadcast engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of radio or television broadcasts. While this course is focused on recording studios, the Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course introduces a variety of topics that might be helpful for a broadcast engineer. The course covers signal flow, audio equipment, and microphone selection. Broadcast engineers will find that the technical aspects of recording, such as those taught in this course, are relevant to the work they do.
Game Audio Implementer
A game audio implementer integrates sound into video games using game engines and audio middleware. The Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course may be useful for a game audio implementer because it provides a foundation in studio workflows and recording technology. The game audio implementer would find an understanding of how studios are set up and how audio is recorded to be valuable. The course's in depth look at signal flow, microphones, and studio equipment will help in the understanding and application of game audio.
Acoustic Consultant
An acoustic consultant advises on the design and treatment of spaces to optimize sound quality. While this course focuses specifically on recording studios, the Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio course helps build an understanding of how to optimize the acoustics of a recording space. The course covers aspects such as sound diffusion and studio design, which are relevant to acoustic consulting. This course may be a helpful starting point for those wishing to move into this field.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Studio Techniques: Working in a Recording Studio.
This handbook comprehensive guide to recording techniques, studio equipment, and best practices. It provides in-depth knowledge of microphone placement, signal processing, and mixing techniques. It valuable resource for understanding the technical aspects of recording and achieving professional-quality results. is commonly used by audio engineering students and professionals.
Widely used textbook that covers all aspects of audio recording, from basic principles to advanced techniques. It provides detailed explanations of microphones, consoles, signal processors, and digital audio workstations. It is particularly helpful for understanding the theory behind recording practices and the operation of studio equipment. Many academic institutions use this book as a core text for audio engineering courses.

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