As discussed last week Mixmasters studios love analogue and Mick had a really interesting description of the difference between an analogue sound and a digital sound. Mick said. “There seems to be abit of fur around the individual tracks with the analogue sound but the digital tracks seem discrete as if in their own pigeon holes.”
Mick speculated that the “fur” helps bind the tracks and gives a more complete result.
We went into the live room and started to look at the construction. Mud bricks, timbers and compressed carpet behind timber. Hopefully I’ll have one of these out the back of my house one day. It has the type of atmosphere that really makes you feel at home. This I believe is part of a successful formula for a successful studio. Of course, the sound really matters and in the machine room Mick shows off his 2inch tape recorder. What really struck me is the quality of the gear here. I think Mick collects reconditions, sells and buys gear constantly. We were lucky to get an example of this when he patched together his different modules. His favourite compressor is a Universal Audio 1176LN, great for kick.
Mick likes to mix often from the guitars back instead of building from drums up, if for no other reason than the mental state of mind it puts you in. Focussing on that more prominent part first will make it stand out at the end. He says sometimes if you focus on your drums sound for ages and build from there you can run the risk of giving it too much weight in the final mix. He often also doesn’t use reverb but uses delay.
As far as mastering goes Mick suggested to check out Don Bartley or Martin Pullen.
What a great insight into a great studio and a great devotee of sound.
References:
Mick Wordley – Session at Mixmasters Studio, Hawthorndene, 02/08/07.
Music Technology Forum – Adelaide University, Electronic Music Unit.
Lecturer: David Grice
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