[Storyville]

There are many ways to learn how to track/mix/master. Reading, practicing at home, asking questions, taking classes, etc. Having done all this, I can honestly say, the best learning experiences have been through booking actual studio sessions with pros and taking notes.

Studio sessions are generally not that expensive - somewhere in the range of 400-600$ for a full day for a pro studio. And you'll learn stuff that you would never learn on your own. I highly highly highly recommend to anyone who is getting started to book a few hours with a pro, go to the studio and listen to what she/he does. I know, you can buy a nice mic for 600 bucks... but honestly, the information is more valuable.

I've also learned that for the most part, it is much cheaper to go to a studio and do work than to try buy your own equipment and get the same results.