Sage Audio Articles

Making the Scene: Nashville

As Nashville, aka Music City, grows over the years it has even been declared the New “It” City. Inspired by a recent book, the Sage Audio Mastering blog takes a look at what it takes to make it in Nashville. We explore tactics that definitely don't work.

Eddie Kramer Provides a History of Electric Lady Studios

Electric Lady Studios was built in 1970 by Jimi Hendrix, and is now one of the most well-known studios in the world. Engineer Eddie Kramer was instrumental in getting the New York Studio started and setting up its original gear. He recently spoke about how the studio came about.

Top 10 Affordable Gift Ideas for Musicians

Shopping for a musician can be a difficult task if you have no prior knowledge of music gear and recording. This list is designed to offer insights to affordable gifts that any musician will appreciate. Whether they are recording from home, performing live shows, just starting out, or a professional; you'll be able to find the right gift for the special occasion.

A Review of Pro Tools 11

Pro Tools is the industry standard recording software. Avids biggest change is that it has completely redone the audio engine. Here is a review of Pro Tools 11.

Apple - Logic Pro X

Apple released Logic Pro X after four years. Logic Pro has always been talked about when it comes to recording software. We take a look at the new features of Logic Pro X.

Avid Offers Fast Track Audio Interfaces

Avid offers both the Fast Track Solo and Fast Track Duo. Both offer great mobile and home studio recording options. The Fast Track Duo is practically the same as the Solo but offers a few more features including two combination XLR/Instrument inputs among other add-ons.

Types of Guitar Effects Pedals

There are nearly an infinite number of combinations of effects pedals available. We will take a look at distortion pedals, delay pedal, chorus pedals, and a few more. These are a few types of different popular guitar pedals and is a guide aimed at beginning guitarists.

Types of Noise Reduction Plugins

Recording in your home can lead to all kinds of unwanted noise on your tracks. Unwanted noise can be as simple as snaps, crackles, pops, signal hiss and even noises from the street. A variety of noise reduction techniques are now available through plugins: here’s an overview of these solutions.

Passive Versus Active Direct Boxes

DI boxes can be one of the most important tools in your studio, though their function is often a bit misunderstood. Here we look at the difference between passive and active direct boxes. We also look at the common uses of these boxes in general.

Ford Offers Rhapsody Integration with its SYNC AppLink System

Ford announced integration with Rhapsody at the 2013 CES that allows hands-free control of the service. Ford will be adding Rhapsody streaming service to 1 million cars, including 2013 models. The company also launched a developers program to allow outside apps for its cars.

What is a Limiter? (and When Should You Use One)

Like a compressor, a limiter often is misunderstood. In fact, a limiter is just a compressor used on extreme settings. Here we take a look at how this works, and what each is used for.

Software from Native Instruments Help Create Virtual Studios

Many home recording engineers like to use virtual instruments to achieve a wider sonic scope on their recordings. Two products from Native Instruments help expand these options. The first product is Native Instruments Komplete 9 and the second is Native Instruments Abbey Road 50s Drummer.

The Basics of Phantom Power for Microphones

Phantom power is a necessity for recording with condenser mics, but it often is slightly misunderstood. Here we look at exactly what phantom power is and when it should (and shouldn’t) be used. We’ll also take a look at how to supply the power you need in your studio.

Would Eliminating Music Licensing Territories Help Artists

Spotify CEO Daniel Ek suggests that licensing music by territory is “antiquated.” Ek talks about how music on the internet can play worldwide but yet it licensing is still tied down to traditional music distribution methods. Would creating worldwide rights be advantageous to today’s artist?

Get Better Kick Sounds from Drum Machines

The legendary Roland TR-808 drum machine (and its successor the 909) has appeared on many legendary recordings. Today, you can get simulators of these drum machines on most recording software packages, and they can be great for home studio owners that aren't working with live drums. However, often times the punch from the kick from the machines is lacking – here are a few tips for a punchier drum machine kick.