When I first started producing, when it came to music theory  and composition , I’d rely on session players  to add chords, rhythms,  and melodies , allowing me to focus on production. If I needed a specific progression  or musical movement , I’d book a musician, have them play what I needed, and shape everything from there. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about music theory , allowing me to be more hands-on with composition. I’ve found modern tools that work as my virtual session players . These plugins give me the same kind of instant creativity and inspiration , allowing me to quickly build musical foundations  without slowing down my workflow. I’ve explored many MIDI tools,  including Cthulhu, Scaler 2, Captain Chords,  and EZ Keys —each offering something unique. While I create in many different ways, Cthulhu remains a leader  for fast and effective melodic and rhythmic  generation. How I Use Cthulhu to Shape My Tracks Step 1: Starting with Chord Progressions When beginning a track, I usually start with a strong chord progression . In Logic , I load up a progression I like and place it on the same track as Cthulhu . Phrygian chord progression in Logic Pro Cthulhu on Channel Strip Then, I engage Learn Mode , allowing Cthulhu to read the chords in real-time . Cthulhu learn engaged This means that whenever I place a note in Cthulhu’s grid , Cthulhu intelligently selects and plays from the chord  I’ve fed it, allowing me to create natural  and evolving movements  instantly Step 2: Using Cthulhu for Rhythmic Patterns & Arpeggiation I have a folder of custom rhythm presets  that I’ve built over the years. These rhythms allow me to quickly shape a groove  without having to manually program each note in a DAW piano roll . A selection from my rhythm folder By default, Cthulhu loads with a 16th-note continuous arpeggio  (the first arp setting in the top section of the grid ). This is useful, but the real power of Cthulhu lies in the bottom section of the grid , where you’ll find eight numbered slots . Cthulhu Grid These numbers correspond to the notes within the chord— 1 represents the first (lowest) note, 2 the next note up, and so on . If a chord has only five notes, slot 6 on the grid will cycle back to the bottom note of the chord, continuing the sequence from there. Here’s how I use them: 🎵 Slot 1  → Plays the first note of the chord (great for basslines). 🎵 Slots 2-5  → These work well for creating mid-range melodies. 🎵 Slots 6-8  → These are perfect for top-line constants Step 3: Crafting the Perfect Movement One thing I love about Cthulhu’s rhythm sequencing  is the way it allows me to shape movement in different ways. ✅ For contained, resolving melodies and basslines , I find that using 1 or 2 bar progressions  work best. ✅ For longer, evolving phrases , I use anywhere between 8 to 32-bar progressions , which helps create a more drawn-out movement  in the track. I often start with the bass notes  in Slot 1 , then copy the bass channel/track  and use Slots 2-5  for melodic variations . I do the same again with Slots 6-8 , creating higher-register constants and melodies  that sit above everything else. This setup allows me to generate intricate, evolving musical phrases in seconds , without manually programming every note. Cthulhu demonstration for basslines and melodies Why I Still Use Cthulhu in 2025 Even though Cthulhu  has been around for years, it still delivers incredible results . While modern tools like Scaler 2  and Captain Chords  offer powerful composition features—and I’ve created great results with them— Cthulhu  remains unmatched in its speed, rhythmic flexibility, and intuitive workflow . Rather than just being an arpeggiator , I see Cthulhu as a tool that takes my chords and breathes rhythmic life into them . It allows me to quickly experiment, change directions, and refine ideas  without breaking creative momentum. Final Thoughts When I need quick access to harmonically rich ideas, Cthulhu is my go-to.  It helps me build grooves instantly and keeps my creative workflow fast and fluid. With Cthulhu's other grid options—random, octaves, pitch, velocity etc —the possibilities are entirely down to preference.  Every adjustment shapes how the sequence flows, giving you full control over your sound. If you’re looking for a tool that can generate complex melodies, basslines, and chord movements quickly , Cthulhu is still one of the best out there. Are you using Cthulhu in your workflow? What are your favourite chord/melody tools? Drop a comment below! 🚀🎶

Not knowing music theory doesn’t mean you can’t write great chord progressions. Over the years, I’ve explored multiple ways to generate harmonically rich progressions without having to rely on deep theoretical knowledge. Whether you’re looking for instant inspiration or a way to gradually build your understanding, there are plenty of approaches to creating progressions that sound professional and musical. 1. Borrow Progressions from Existing Songs One of the easiest ways to find inspiration is to analyse progressions from your favourite tracks . Many songs across genres use similar progressions, and understanding these can help you craft your own. HookTheory: A Deep Well of Chord Progressions HookTheory  is a fantastic resource that lets you browse the chord progressions of thousands of popular songs. You can search for a track, see its chords, and analyse how they function within the key. 💡 How to use it: 1. Pick a song you love. 2. Look at the chord progression and see how it moves. 3. Try using a similar sequence in your own track but with a different rhythm or feel. 4. Experiment with transposing the progression into different keys for variety. This approach is great because it teaches you by ear , letting you absorb theory naturally rather than forcing you to memorise rules. 2. Use MIDI Chord Packs If you want to work fast, MIDI chord packs  are a great shortcut. These are pre-made progressions that you can drag and drop into your DAW, giving you instant access to well-structured harmonic sequences. Where to Find Great MIDI Packs: 🎹 Unison MIDI Chord Pack  – A huge collection of progressions covering multiple genres. 🎵 Cymatics Chord Progressions  – Designed for modern electronic music. 📁 Red Sounds MIDI Chords  – Packs focused on R&B, pop, and house music. 💡 How to use them effectively: • Drag a MIDI file into your DAW and assign it to a synth or piano. • Edit the MIDI notes—adjust the voicings, extend or shorten chords, or change inversions. • Add your own rhythmic patterns or arpeggios to make it feel unique. MIDI packs can be a great learning tool because they expose you to different progression styles, allowing you to see how chords flow together. 3. Use a Chord Progression Chart Chord progression charts give you a structured way to build progressions without needing deep music theory knowledge . They show common sequences that work well together in different keys. How a Chord Progression Chart Works A simple chart lists the diatonic chords  in a key. For example, in C Major: Degree Chord Function I C Major Root chord (stable) ii D Minor Adds movement iii E Minor Emotional feel IV F Major Prepares for resolution V G Major Builds tension vi A Minor Common in pop & electronic vii° B Diminished Used for tension 💡 How to create a progression: 1. Start with a I  chord (C Major). 2. Move to a vi  (A Minor) for an emotional shift. 3. Use a IV  (F Major) for movement. 4. Resolve with a V  (G Major) leading back to I . Common Progressions to Try: • I - V - vi - IV  (C - G - Am - F) – Used in thousands of hit songs. • vi - IV - I - V  (Am - F - C - G) – Emotional, often found in pop and house music. • ii - V - I  (Dm - G - C) – A classic jazz and deep house progression. Using charts like this lets you experiment with structure while maintaining musicality . 4. Create Chord Progressions in Your DAW Modern DAWs now include tools that help you generate and experiment with chord progressions  even if you don’t have much theory knowledge. Create Chord Progressions in Logic Pro Logic Pro X offers built-in tools to help you craft chord progressions quickly, even if you’re not deep into music theory. Chord Track:  This feature lets you place chords along a timeline, selecting the root note, chord quality, and inversion. You can tweak each chord’s details and structure as you go. Chord Progressions Feature:  Apply pre-set progressions directly to a MIDI region or a Session Player track, instantly generating harmonic movement. 💡 How to Use It Effectively: 1. Add a Chord Track  and set a key to guide your progression. 2. Input chords manually or apply a Chord Progression  preset. 3. Experiment with inversions and voicings  for richer harmonies. 4. Use a MIDI controller  to trigger and test your progression in real time. This approach keeps composition fluid and intuitive , letting you focus on creativity while maintaining musical coherence. Ableton Live: Chord & Scale MIDI Effects Ableton offers Chord  and Scale  MIDI effects that automatically harmonise notes into proper progressions. This means you can play a single note and let the DAW generate full chords in key. 💡 How to use them effectively: 1. Set your DAW to a key using the Scale  feature. 2. Use a Chord plugin  to automatically generate chords when playing single notes. 3. Experiment with arpeggiators or rhythmic variations to add movement. This is a great way to explore harmony creatively  without being bogged down by theoretical constraints. 5. Learn the Theory Over Time If you want full control over your compositions , learning the fundamentals of music theory  is the best long-term investment. While the previous methods are great for quick results, understanding the why  behind chord movements will empower you to experiment freely . Why Learning Theory is Worth It: ✅ You’ll gain confidence in writing your own progressions from scratch. ✅ You won’t need to rely on external tools to create music. ✅ You’ll recognise common patterns and know how to tweak them for originality. 📚 Where to Start Learning Music Theory: • Hooktheory I & II  – Interactive books that teach harmony in a modern, visual way. • Musictheory.net  – A free online resource with practical lessons. • “How to Write Songs on Keyboard” by Rikky Rooksby  – Covers chord structures in-depth. • YouTube Channels  – Signals Music Studio , 12Tone , and Adam Neely all have fantastic breakdowns of music theory in an easy-to-understand way. While it takes time to master theory, you don’t need to know everything to start applying it to your productions today . Final Thoughts There are many ways to create chord progressions  without knowing music theory, from analysing songs and using MIDI packs to leveraging DAW tools and progression charts. The important thing is finding an approach that works for you  and helps you stay creative . Which Approach is Best for You? 🎹 Want instant inspiration?  → Try HookTheory  or MIDI chord packs . 💡 Prefer structured guidance?  → Use a chord progression chart . 🎛 Want hands-on creativity?  → Explore DAW chord generators . 🎶 Looking to grow long-term?  → Start learning music theory  gradually. No matter which method you choose, experiment, trust your ears, and don’t be afraid to break the rules . At the end of the day, the best chord progressions are the ones that feel right in your music . 🚀 Epic & Meditative (i - ♭VI - ♭VII - i) → Dm - B♭ - C - Dm

I’ve been using Soundtoys plugins  since 2010, and they’ve become a core part of my mixing arsenal . They’re versatile, add character, and provide unique movement and colour to my mixes. Whether it’s saturation, filtering, delay, or modulation, there’s a Soundtoys plugin that fits the job perfectly. These are the Soundtoys plugins I rely on most  and how I use them in my workflow. Decapitator: The Saturation King Decapitator  is one of the most well-known saturation plugins  out there, and for good reason. I often find myself coming back to it when I need to add warmth, bite, or thickness  to a sound. The different saturation modes (A, E, N, T, and P) all offer something unique, but I personally like A & E  for helping sounds cut through the mix. 💡 Pro Tip:  The Tone  dial is excellent for subtly nudging a sound up or down in the frequency range , making it fit better in the mix. FilterFreak1: Breathing Life Into Sounds Lately, all I seem to be doing is mixing, and sometimes I come across sounds that feel stale or lifeless . That’s where FilterFreak1  comes in. It’s an easy-to-use, powerful filter  that can add movement, warmth, and dynamic shaping  to sounds that need extra life. 💡 Pro Tip:  Even a small amount of automation  on FilterFreak1  can transform a static sound into something much more interesting. Devil-Loc Deluxe: Subtle But Powerful Devil-Loc Deluxe  can thicken and beef up  a sound with minimal effort. A slight amount of Crush and Crunch  can make a huge difference  in a mix, especially when I need a sound to feel bigger and more solid . 💡 How I Use It:  I blend in just a small amount  of Devil-Loc to give a sound more body and weight  without overdoing it. EchoBoy: My Favourite Delay for Solo Sounds EchoBoy  is my go-to delay plugin for lead lines . The “Solo” presets  are great for helping lead sounds sit better in the mix. I don’t always want an obvious delay effect—sometimes I just need a subtle presence underneath the main sound  to help it blend naturally. 💡 How I Use It:  A slight delay layer  on a lead sound  can add movement  without overpowering the dry signal. MicroShift: Width & Presence MicroShift  is another essential plugin, especially for vocals and lead sounds . It gives vocals that classic H3000-style widening , making them sound bigger and more present  in the mix. 💡 Pro Tip:  If you don’t own an H3000 , MicroShift is a great alternative  to get a familiar, wide, and airy  vocal sound. Little AlterBoy: The Pensado Trick I use Little AlterBoy  for pitch-shifting effects, but one of my favourite tricks is the Pensado vocal technique —adding an octave-down  version of the vocal just beneath the main vocal for extra body  and depth . It also works the other way—an octave up  can lift a vocal, adding energy  and presence , especially in choruses . 💡 How I Use It:  A subtle mix of the low-octave vocal  under the main vocal thickens  the sound without overpowering it. PanMan: Subtle Movement for a More Dynamic Mix PanMan  is a stereo panning plugin  that I use sparingly, but when I do, it makes all the difference. Small, natural panning movements  can help sounds breathe and avoid clashing  with other elements in the mix. 💡 Favourite Use:  I apply gentle panning  on hi-hats  to create a slight stereo movement , which helps keep them clear of the centre of the mix  where the kick and bass sit. Crystallizer: Adding Sparkle & Depth Crystallizer  is perfect for adding shimmering, pitched delays  to pads, guitars, or other elements that need a little lift. It works especially well for creating an ethereal or dreamy effect . 💡 Pro Tip:  A touch of Crystallizer  on a pad or background element  can add a unique, textured feel  to the mix. Little Plate & SuperPlate: Rich, Thick Reverbs Both Little Plate  and SuperPlate  are fantastic plate reverb plugins . They give a thick, vintage plate sound  that blends beautifully  into a mix. 💡 How I Use Them:  When I need a big, lush plate reverb , these are great options. I don’t reach for them often, but when I do, I’m reminded of how good  they sound. Additional Soundtoys Plugins I Use Along with my main Soundtoys staples , I also reach for Radiator  and Tremolator  when needed. ✔ Radiator  – Adds analog-style warmth  and character . ✔ Tremolator  – Great for adding rhythmic modulation  and movement  to sounds. Final Thoughts Soundtoys plugins have been around for a long time, and for good reason—they just work . They bring movement, character, and texture  to my mixes in ways that other plugins don’t. Whether I’m warming up a sound with Decapitator, thickening a vocal with MicroShift, or adding movement with PanMan , these plugins continue to be an essential part of my workflow. 🎛️ Do you use Soundtoys plugins in your mixes? Which ones are your favourites? Let me know! Soundtoys Effect Rack

As an electronic music producer, workflow efficiency is key, and certain tools can make a significant difference in achieving a well-balanced mix. Over time, I’ve found myself relying on two essential apps that have become weekly staples in my process: Producer Tools  by Quadrophone and N Track Tuner Pro . These apps help me quickly pinpoint key frequencies, troubleshoot tuning issues, and refine the mix when working with headphones. Using N Track Tuner Pro for Identifying Key Notes When working with a mix, especially on headphones, I often need to determine the key of a note on the fly. This is where N Track Tuner Pro  comes in handy. Instead of playing notes on a keyboard, I whistle them or hold the tone with my voice and use the app to check which note I’m producing. This helps immensely when tuning my kick drum  and dealing with low-end issues—ensuring that the bass elements are in harmony with the track rather than clashing. For example, if I notice some muddiness in the low end while tuning my kick , I’ll whistle or hum the note and reference N Track Tuner Pro  to confirm exactly which note I’m dealing with. Once I have that, I move over to Producer Tools  to match it with its corresponding frequency range. Leveraging Producer Tools for Frequency and EQ Reference Producer Tools  is invaluable when it comes to understanding frequency relationships in a mix. After identifying the note using N Track Tuner Pro , I use Producer Tools  to find out where that note sits in the frequency spectrum. This allows me to fine-tune my EQ decisions. The EQ guide  within Producer Tools  is another feature that proves useful when a particular element isn’t cutting through the mix as expected. If my kick drum  isn’t hitting quite right or my snare  feels too weak, I’ll consult the EQ guide to see suggested frequency ranges for enhancement. This can be especially helpful when working in unfamiliar monitoring environments or when a mix just doesn’t seem to translate well. A Quick Tip for Tuning and Mixing Efficiency Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how I use these tools in a real-world mixing scenario: 1. Identify the note  – If there’s an issue in the low-end or a specific instrument sounds off, I’ll whistle or hum the note and check it using N Track Tuner Pro . 2. Find the frequency  – Once I know the note, I’ll reference Producer Tools  to pinpoint its fundamental frequency. 3. EQ adjustments  – Using the EQ guide , I determine whether a cut or boost is needed to balance the mix. 4. Refinement  – With this data, I make precise adjustments to the kick, bass, or any other element, ensuring they sit well together. A Simple Yet Effective Technique Both Producer Tools  and N Track Tuner Pro  offer a quick and efficient way to check tuning and frequencies without extra guesswork. Instead of tweaking blindly, these apps provide clear, practical guidance, allowing for more intentional and informed decisions. Whether I’m working in the studio or on the go with headphones, they have become a useful part of my production toolkit. If you find yourself struggling with tuning issues, low-end clarity, or getting percussive elements to sit right, this quick tip can help you make adjustments more efficiently. It’s a small but effective technique that can make a difference in achieving a well-balanced mix.

Over the years, certain pieces of equipment have become ingrained in our subconscious, shaping how we hear and experience music. Whether we realise it or not, the gear used in production has defined what feels right  in a mix. Some sounds are so deeply ingrained that when they’re missing, the mix doesn’t quite land—it’s like chasing a sound you know should be there but isn’t. The Influence of Legendary Gear Take Lexicon reverbs —a sound that has washed over music for decades. Their lush, spacious character is so deeply embedded in recordings. Whether it’s the PCM 70, 224, or 480L , these units have defined how we perceive depth in music, to the point where their presence can instinctively feel ‘right’ in a mix. The same goes for SSL Bus Compression —a staple of modern mixing. The moment an SSL compressor  is applied to a mix, there’s a distinct “ahhhh”  moment—everything locks together, and the track feels more complete. For the past decades, the SSL 9000 J series  has been a defining console in pop and modern music production, while the SSL E series  (introduced in 1979) set the gold standard  for punch and cohesion in mixing. These consoles—subtle yet powerful—have shaped how we perceive a polished, professional mix , becoming an integral part of the sonic identity of countless records. But it’s not just SSL and Lexicon. Other legendary hardware has played an essential role in defining the sound of recorded music: 🎛 LA-2A & 1176 Compressors  – The unmistakable weight and presence they add to vocals and instruments. 🎚 Pultec EQs  – The legendary Pultec trick  for adding warmth and clarity. 🎞 Studer Tape Machines  – The analog saturation and harmonic richness that digital emulations still chase today. Chasing the Sound: Finding the Right Gear for Your Music It takes years to fully understand how these iconic tools subtly contribute to what we hear. For me, one of the defining moments was discovering Lexicon reverb—specifically, the PCM 70.  The first time I heard it, I felt an instant sense of completeness . It was a missing link in what I had been hearing. If something feels missing in your mix, it could be the sound  of a specific piece of gear you’re unknowingly craving. Take a step back and analyse the records that inspire you: 📌 Where were they recorded? 📌 What consoles, compressors, reverbs, and eq's were used? 📌 What era was the track produced in? Once you identify the sonic signature you’re after, you can start experimenting with plugins  that recreate these classic pieces of hardware. We have more access than ever to faithful  emulations—whether it’s UAD, Waves, Acustica, or Arturia , these plugins can bring a familiar flavour  to your music. Plugins might not be 100% the real thing , but they’ll get you in the ballpark —from there, you can decide how far you want to go. Whether you want to stay authentic  to classic sounds or push boundaries  with something new, knowing the history  behind these tools gives you the power to shape your own  sonic identity. Here’s a list of classic mixing gear that shaped our sound over decades of music: Legendary Mixing Consoles 🎛 SSL 4000 E/G Series  (1979) – Famous for its punchy bus compressor  and mix-ready EQ curves. 🎛 SSL 9000 J/K Series  (1995) – A cleaner, more modern SSL sound  that dominated pop and R&B. 🎛 Neve 80 Series  (1970s) – Warm, musical tone with iconic 1073 preamps  and silky EQs. 🎛 API 1608 / 2448  – Known for punchy, aggressive  tones, great for rock and hip-hop. 🎛 Trident A-Range & Series 80B  – Famous for its coloured EQs , used on Bowie, Queen, and Radiohead. 🎛 Harrison 32C  – Defined the sound of Michael Jackson’s Thriller  and early funk/disco. Classic Compressors & Dynamics Processors 🎚 SSL G Bus Compressor  – The famous “glue” compressor  for mixes since the 1980s. 🎚 Fairchild 670  – The legendary tube compressor  used on The Beatles and Pink Floyd. 🎚 UREI 1176  – Fast attack, aggressive compression , used on drums, vocals, and guitars. 🎚 Teletronix LA-2A  – A smooth optical compressor , perfect for vocals and bass. 🎚 Empirical Labs Distressor  – A modern classic , used for shaping drum transients and adding attitude. EQs That Defined the Sound 🎛 Pultec EQP-1A  – The famous “air boost”  at 10kHz for vocals and mix sheen. 🎛 Neve 1073 / 1081  – Thick, warm British EQs  with rich midrange character. 🎛 API 550A / 550B / 560  – Punchy, aggressive EQs , perfect for drums and bass. 🎛 Harrison 32C EQ  – A unique, musical tone , shaping countless iconic records. Reverbs That Shaped Music History 🌊 Lexicon 224 / 480L / PCM 70  – The gold standard  for lush, digital reverb. 🌊 EMT 140 Plate  – The classic plate reverb , heard on The Beatles and Motown. 🌊 AMS RMX16  – The 80s drum reverb , used on Phil Collins, Prince, and U2. 🌊 Bricasti M7  – A modern high-end reverb , a staple in film and pop mixing. Final Thoughts: The Sounds That Define Us Our ears have been trained by decades of recordings shaped by legendary gear. Whether it’s the Lexicon reverb  wrapping around a vocal, the SSL Bus Compressor  tightening a mix, or the Pultec EQ  adding a magical top-end boost—these sounds have become part of our collective music psyche. If your mixes aren’t quite hitting right for you, it might not be a problem with your production —it could be the absence of a familiar sonic element. Understanding what has shaped the records you love can give you a roadmap to finding the sound you’re looking for. 🎛 Explore. Experiment. Find the tools that bring your music to life.  🎶

When it comes to mixing audio , having a clear mental image of your mixing field  can transform your workflow. The “mixing field” is the imaginary space stretching out before you—extending as far back and wide as your speakers (and imagination) allow. Think of it like a visual landscape: rolling hills stretching to the horizon, birds singing close by, a distant factory humming gently far away. Just as a painter places visual elements precisely within a landscape, your job as a mix engineer is to place sonic elements within this imaginary sonic landscape , clearly defining where each sound lives. Understanding the Sonic Landscape 🌄 Every sound has its place within the three-dimensional mixing field: • Left and right : How wide your elements are placed. • Near and far (depth) : How close or distant sounds feel. The more intentional you are about placing your sounds, the clearer and more compelling your mix becomes. Dividing the Mixing Field When starting out, it helps to keep your mixing space clearly defined and easy to understand. Here’s a straightforward method to organise your mix, ensuring clarity, depth, and width without overwhelming yourself. Left-to-Right Panning 🎚️ • Full Left/Right  – Extreme width for expansive sounds. • 50% Left/Right (“10 & 2”)  – Slightly off-centre, ideal for secondary instruments. • Centre  – Reserved for main elements such as kick, bass, lead vocals, or solo instruments. 🎛️ Front-to-Back (Depth with Reverb) To create depth easily, use three basic reverb stages : 1. Near Reverb • A subtle, short reverb that gently moves sounds just away from the listener. • Perfect for vocals, drums, and instruments you want to feel upfront and present. 2. Main Reverb (Primary Space) • The main acoustic space of your track. • Instruments here will feel naturally blended and cohesive. 3. Shimmer Verb (Distance) • A longer, brighter reverb placing sounds further back in the mix. • Great for pads, distant textures, atmospheric elements, or subtle effects. 🎧 Putting Sounds into Defined “Pockets” Once your basic sections are clear, placing your sounds becomes straightforward: • Lead Vocal  – Centre position, near reverb (close and clear). • Backing Vocals or Synth Pads  – 50% left/right with main reverb (supportive, cohesive). • Effects and Percussion  – Wider edges or shimmer verb (adding dimension, width, and interest). By keeping your mix organised into these clear pockets, you’ll quickly achieve clarity and depth without complexity—especially helpful if you’re new to mixing or want a simpler workflow. Adjusting for Complexity ⚙️ Sometimes your track will have more layers, requiring additional pockets. The same principles still apply—simply add more intermediate positions in your stereo field or depth zones. For example, if you have a busy arrangement, you might: • Introduce a 75% left/right position  for additional rhythmic or harmonic elements. • Add a medium-distance reverb  between the Near and Main reverbs to accommodate more sounds comfortably. Why This Approach Works 🎯 By visually and sonically mapping your mixing field, you naturally avoid clutter. Each sound finds its place effortlessly, resulting in a balanced mix that’s easy on the ears. You’ll achieve: • Greater clarity and definition • Effortless separation of elements • More immersive listening experience Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple & Clear ✨ The goal of visualising your mixing field isn’t to complicate your workflow—it’s to simplify decision-making. When each sound has its defined pocket, your mixes become stronger, clearer, and more intentional. Try this method in your next session and experience the difference it can make. 🎛️ Where do you place your sounds in the mixing field? Share your thoughts below!

For the past seven weeks , I’ve been posting blogs on electronic music production —breaking down mixing, music theory, gear, and creative techniques. Now, I’m bringing those topics to YouTube  with AI-narrated podcast episodes . Why a YouTube Channel? I know that everyone learns differently. Some prefer reading, others need to hear concepts explained, and for many, audio-visual content is the most effective way to absorb new ideas . The blog is about real-world, experience-driven knowledge , and now, the YouTube channel expands on that by: ✔️ Bringing blog topics to life  with AI-narrated podcast episodes. ✔️ Offering deep dives into production techniques, gear, and mixing strategies. ✔️ Creating a space for producers to engage, comment, and learn together. I wanted to make these insights available in a format you can listen to anywhere —whether you’re in the studio, driving, or just looking for inspiration. 🎚 What’s on the channel? • The Gear That Shaped Our Sound  – A deep dive into the hardware behind electronic music. • Understanding Musical Keys for the Electronic Music Producer  – A simple breakdown of scales, modes, and harmonies. • More episodes coming soon! 📺 YouTube : Electronic Production Podcast 📖 Read the blog : Electronic Production If you’re into electronic music production, mixing, or studio techniques , check it out and subscribe for more . 🚀🎶

A Process That Delivered—Again and Again What if you could finish a track in just four days—week after week—while still DJing, clubbing, and staying immersed in the scene? That was my approach when I broke through as Mr Pink . I had a workflow that worked , a sound that stood out , and a routine that kept me on track . Monday to Thursday was for making music . Friday to Sunday? DJing, clubbing and absorbing  what worked on the dancefloor. It wasn’t just about making tracks—it was about refining a recognisable sound . My breakthrough came with a remix for Rollo (“Love, Love, Love”) , which hit #1 on the Buzz Chart  and opened doors in the industry. But that only happened because I committed to a clear, repeatable approach —something distinct, something that people could hear and instantly know: That’s a Mr Pink record. The Mr Pink Formula When I was making music as Mr Pink , I treated it like a band —using the same core instruments on every track  to create a consistent artist sound . The kick, bass, organ, percussion loop and sampled music loop  were my foundation. Those elements became my sonic fingerprint , helping listeners immediately recognise my tracks in a club. This is something I still believe is key for producers today— finding your sound  means committing to a defined palette of sounds  that makes your tracks distinct. The Breakthrough My first major remix opportunity came from Rollo (“Love, Love, Love”)  on Champion Records . Around that time, I had been releasing tracks on Mindfood  and sending out demos. Out of everyone I contacted, Jonny Walker  was the one who got back to me—giving me my first real shot in the industry. Sampling was a big part of my approach, especially disco records . I was inspired by how American producers  were flipping disco into house music, but I wanted to bring that faster, club-focused sound  to the European market. By speeding up disco samples  and working them into my productions, I created something that connected with both DJs and clubbers . The Process: How I Worked I had a workflow  that made finishing tracks fast and consistent . The key tool? ReCycle —a game-changer at the time. Here’s how my process worked: 1️⃣ The sample was loaded into the Akai S1000 . 2️⃣ ReCycle  transferred it to the computer, where I sliced it up. 3️⃣ The program sent the chopped sample  back to the Akai, already mapped and key-grouped . 4️⃣ ReCycle also generated a MIDI file , allowing the full loop to play back naturally in my DAW . This technique let me manipulate disco samples seamlessly , fitting them into my productions with precision. From there, I built the rest of the track using my core sounds —giving every Mr Pink release a consistent identity . The Impact: Why Finding Your Sound Matters When the Rollo remix  hit #1 on the Buzz Chart  and later #1 on the Club Chart , everything changed. Suddenly, more remix requests came in. I didn’t know music theory , but I knew the dancefloor . Years of DJing  taught me what worked. That’s the key to finding your sound —it’s not about knowing every chord progression  or technical detail , it’s about understanding what moves people . The biggest lesson I learned? 🔹 Find your sound—and own it. Choose your instruments , samples , and techniques , then stick with them. When people connect with your music, they’ll want more of it . Artists like MK  are a perfect example—his signature sound is instantly recognisable . Once you develop a distinct sonic identity , you can deliver consistently . And as you grow, you can expand and evolve , but at some point, music becomes a business . Keeping your craft simple, effective, and unique  is one of the best ways to build a long-lasting career . Final Thoughts: Defining Your Sound in Music Production If you’re serious about building a career in electronic music , your signature sound  is everything. It’s what sets you apart . It’s what keeps people coming back . The key is consistency —finding a process that allows you to work efficiently  while maintaining your unique style . Experimentation is great, but at some point, you need a workflow  that lets you finish tracks , build momentum , and establish your place in the industry . So, what’s your sound? Once you find it— commit to it . That’s when doors start to open.

There’s a new Tape  in town, and it’s called Machine Head  from SPL. Last night, I got stuck into this new plugin from Plugin Alliance, and honestly—I was blown away. I’ve come to realise that to get the sound I have in my head—fully in the box—some kind of tape emulation is essential on the master bus. Over the years, I’ve tried my fair share of tape plugins, and I’ve been a supporter of Airwindows’ ToTape7 . It has the character and definition—the thing that makes a mix feel like a finished record —while still maintaining the life in the mix. But Machine Head ? It took things to a warmer level. Why Tape Matters in the Digital World Coming from the analog era , maybe I’ve just developed an ear for tape. Or maybe it’s because records pressed to vinyl and mixed down through tape machines simply have a sound that digital often lacks. Whatever the reason, tape glues a mix together , rounds out the transients, and adds a musical warmth that’s hard to beat. That’s where Machine Head  shines—it recreates the sonic benefits of tape, but without the limitations . The original Machine Head  algorithm was first developed in the mid-90s  to digitally emulate the saturation and harmonics of an analog tape machine. SPL has now revived and improved  this algorithm, refining it for modern production while preserving its original sonic character. Instant Analog Vibe with Minimal Tweaking What I like about Machine Head  is its simplicity . Tape machines have a lot of settings, and it takes time to really know them. Not this one.  Dialing in the right tone felt straightforward . The Drive control  tightened up the track on the master, making the mix sound denser and more glued together. What Stands Out? • Drive Control  – Increases saturation without overloading the mix. • 15 IPS vs. 30 IPS  – The 15 IPS  setting rounds out the transients and smooths everything beautifully. • High Frequency Adjust  – Unlike real tape, this lets you boost or cut  highs independently of saturation. • Ultimate Version Enhancements  – Features a Low Frequency Adjust  for even finer tonal shaping. The harmonics? Beautifully musical.  The Drive adds just enough warmth without becoming overbearing, and the tape compression effect  is incredibly natural. Less Tweaking, More Mixing The best thing? It doesn’t take much to get great  results. Some plugins demand a lot tweaking before they feel right. Machine Head  just works. If you’re looking for a no-fuss tape saturation plugin  that delivers pro results fast , this might be your new go-to. Highly recommended. The Evolution of Machine Head Machine Head isn’t just another tape emulation—it has real history  behind it. Back in the 1990s , Kai Lukas and Frank Hartmann —both engineers specialising in digital audio processing—wanted to bring the sound of a Lyrec TR-533 24-track 2-inch tape machine  into the digital world. They spent years measuring, modeling, and refining  an algorithm that captured the unique saturation, harmonic distortion, and glue that made tape so beloved. The original Machine Head hardware  was built using Motorola 56002 fixed-point DSPs , but computing power back then had serious limitations . Today, SPL has taken the same core algorithm and enhanced it with modern high-resolution filtering , better low-end control  and greater parameter precision . Making Machine Head Ultimate  even more accurate than the original.

Here I am, 26 years  after first opening Logic Pro on my trusty G4 back in 1999, now running it on a blazing-fast M2 Max chip, yet still freezing tracks to finish projects. Thinking back to around 2003, I clearly remember running massive projects—125 audio tracks with plugins like Pro-53 and Absynth—on my humble G4. Sure, freezing tracks was necessary then, but it felt reasonable given the hardware limitations. Fast-forward to today, my computer is easily 40 times faster in single-core performance and thousands of times faster in multicore processing , packed with 32 GB of RAM, and Logic Pro itself has evolved tremendously. You’d think freezing tracks would be a distant memory by now. Yet, the reality is surprisingly familiar. Even now, with incredible processing power at my fingertips, I quickly hit that familiar wall—pushing the limits by using oversampling, ultra-detailed plugins, and layers upon layers of audio. Of course, if I ran things like I did back in the day—no oversampling, lighter plugins—my current setup would breeze through without breaking a sweat. But given the option to crank everything up to achieve that ultra-polished, big-studio sound, why wouldn’t I take it? It reminds me vividly of when I upgraded to a G5 loaded with 64 GB of RAM and 12 processors. The feeling was exhilarating: unlimited channels, endless plugins, no more compromises—right? Within a week, I was back to maxing it out. I guess it’s human nature— give us more power, and we’ll immediately find ways to use every last drop . And maybe that’s a good thing; it’s proof we’re constantly pushing forward, striving for the highest possible quality in our art. Don’t get me wrong: I’m thrilled with the tools we have now. Being able to achieve that “big studio sound” from literally anywhere is incredible, something I only dreamed of two decades ago. But part of me can’t help but wonder: Will the next generation of computers  finally give us that promised creative freedom, or will I have to wait for the Quantum chips  before freezing tracks becomes a relic of the past? Until then, I guess I’ll just keep pushing the boundaries—one frozen track at a time.

🚀 NEW MODULE LIVE: Understanding Pitch for the Electronic Music Producer!  🎚️ The first module from A Producer’s Guide to Electronic Music , Understanding Musical Keys , is already live on Patreon—now, it’s time to dive into Pitch . This module breaks down one of the most fundamental aspects of music production, helping you shape sound with precision and creativity . What You’ll Learn in Module 2: 🎯 The role of pitch in electronic music —how it affects melodies, harmonies and sound design. 📏 Tuning instruments and vocals  for a more polished, professional mix. 🎛️ Creative pitch techniques , including bending, automation, and microtonal experimentation. 🎵 Pitch as a storytelling tool —how subtle shifts can add emotion, tension and depth. 🔬 Frequency vs. pitch —understanding the science behind how we perceive sound. This module is designed to enhance your ear, improve your productions and refine your technical skills . Whether you’re crafting melodies, designing synth patches or mixing vocals, mastering pitch is essential. 🔥 Access Module 2 for just $4 on Patreon! 👉 Join me on Patreon  to unlock this module and gain exclusive insights into electronic music production! 🎶 Understanding Pitch for the Electronic Music Producer

My first real introduction to FM synthesis came through the Yamaha DX21  — a bottom-of-the-range keyboard that’s still a gem for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the FM world. You can pick one up for a pretty low price these days and despite its limitations, it offers a great crash course in the rawness and unpredictability of FM sound design. The DX21 runs on a 4-operator FM engine , a stripped-back version of what you’d find in its more famous sibling, the DX7. While I did use it for certain sounds, I always had one eye on the DX7 , knowing it could do more — and sound better. But here’s the thing: the DX21 had charm . There’s a gritty, lo-fi quality  to its sound that gives it a unique voice in the mix. It doesn’t try to sound smooth or polished — instead, it delivers abrasive textures, metallic edges, and harsh digital tones  that somehow just work  in the right context. For electronic music , especially when you’re looking for something with a bit more bite or character , that rawness becomes a strength. It’s a synth that feels unrefined in the best possible way  — a little wild, a little unpredictable, and very capable of surprising you. Whether you’re sculpting basslines, strange percussive hits, or alien pads, the DX21 can spit out weird and wonderful results that often feel more exciting because of their imperfections. A few years later, I finally got hold of a DX7 II  — the full stereo version , with deeper tone and, frankly, more balls . This synth is a beast. The bass tones  in particular are where it shines — they cut through the mix  with ease and always sit perfectly without much fuss. That’s the magic of a well-designed FM engine. Owning both the DX21 and the DX7 II made the differences clear. The DX7 II had that polished edge, a clarity and depth the DX21 couldn’t match. But still — the DX21 had character . Its grit , its rough-around-the-edges textures  — there was something charming about it. When I eventually sold it, I genuinely missed what it brought to the studio. Fast-forward to today, and FM synthesis is still alive and kicking in hardware form. Korg’s Volca FM  and especially the FM2  are carrying the torch  in a big way. The FM2, in particular, puts me right back in that DX7 space . And considering you can load the original Yamaha DX7 library  into it, there’s clearly some shared DNA in the architecture. It sounds solid — raw where it needs to be, but capable of pristine stereo tones too. Plugin Versions And if you’re more into working in-the-box , software has more than stepped up. Arturia’s DX7 V  brings a beautifully enhanced take on the classic DX7, with extra features, effects, and a much more visual approach to editing. Then there’s Dexed , the open-source DX7 emulator that nails the architecture and lets you load original DX7 patches — totally free and surprisingly authentic. These plugins have made FM synthesis more accessible and tweakable  than ever, especially for those who might be intimidated by the often non-intuitive interface of the originals. Whether you’re hunting for that classic 80s bell tone, glassy pads, or biting basslines, there’s now a full spectrum of FM available — from battered vintage hardware with character to clean digital emulations . So whether you’re picking up a cheap vintage unit , a classic synth icon , a modern reinterpretation , or diving into the plugin realm , hardware and software FM synthesis still offers something unique and inspiring . It’s not the easiest world to dive into — but if you’re feeling stuck or looking for new sonic directions , it’s absolutely worth your time.