good resources to learn?

[BigIzzy]

Hey everyone!

My name is Izzy. I'm new to the forum!

I had a quick question. What are some good books I can buy that talk in-depth about mastering music in the studio? I would like to start recording myself (singing, piano, synth) and a band (guitars, drums, etc). I somewhat know how to record, but I'm all-thumbs when it comes to mastering/post-production! Do you guys know of any good resources to help me FULLY learn how to be proficient at mastering/mixing? How did you guys learn? My college offers a recording-minor, but I would rather learn this stuff on my own than pay $5,000 in course-fees! I know some of you guys are VERY proficient in mastering and recording (I'm a noob, I admit it! :P), how did you guys learn? What resources do you know of that can teach me both the basics, and more advanced mastering techniques in the studio?

Thanks so much!

-Izzy

[Adam Dempsey]

There are industry mags, some tech tips at Pro Sound Web, I'll leave it to others to recommend books, specifically. I always try to encourage volunteering: a local radio station, amateur theatre group, or mixing mates' bands (you'd be amazed at how well appreciated by a band is an engineer who knows – if not, loves – their music, and with an eye on their movements when performing). Anything that gets you into habitual listening, and working with others. You won't find a learning curve like it; it beats the transfer curve/knee of any expander/gate*.
All the above worked for me, from the age of 13 and from toying with open reel machines prior to that.
Other than that, to "FULLY" learn, give yourself a lifetime because you never stop. Throw yourself in... persist... and leads and opportunities will follow and you'll learn more than from any book.

* (If my lame attempt at an analogy is lost on you, then yes, reading up on some basics will be worthwhile). Enjoy.

[frans]

Errr.. in-depth could easily mean a minimum of 5 years or so to develop your ears. There are loads of threads pros/cons of several routes to knowledge, courses, books, interning - take a few days and digest opposing viewpoints to get that 360 degree view.
Just a hint: books alone don't develop your ears. The better books like "mixing with your mind" by Stav would require a few years experience alone before any noob could even touch it. The only thing that will get you through all this would be love.

[Red Mastering]

rule number 1 -
avoid GS !!!!
it's full of BS)....
but seriously 1 of 10 topics is interesting and worth time spending.....
others - mostly - ego/penis arguments

[BigIzzy]

Thanks for the tips, guys!

I would say that I have a great ear (especially when it comes to mixing and post-editing). I was in a studio one time recording an album I released a few years ago--I noticed things in the mix that needed help that the engineer didn't even notice.

"Hey, you didn't tune that vocal-note correctly. And the snare doesn't sit well in the mix."

The engineer looked at me, listened to the track again, and said, "Wow. You're right. I didn't even catch that--GOOD EAR, man!"

I have an incredible ear when it comes to music, but I just don't know how to implement things I hear into plugins, techniques, etc. I also don't know sometimes what is the "right" sound when it comes to mastering, if that makes sense.

Any book in particular that might help? Both beginner, and advanced (and intermediate) would be great, I want to learn as much as I can!

~Izzy

[BigIzzy]

Originally Posted by tresperros

others - mostly - ego/penis arguments

Hahaha

[Caj]

For mastering specifics? Mastering Audio by Bob Katz. I hope I remembered that right it's 2 am!

[Teddy Ray]

for the 84th time.

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/4094587-post3.html

[monsieur x]

Honestly, doesn't sound like you're at mastering yet. . . but if you want to learn concepts that will help you with all things audio, check out Mastering Audio by Bob Katz.

And for mixing, a book that I really enjoyed reading: Amazon.com: Mixing Audio: Concepts, Practices and Tools (9780240520681): Roey Izhaki: Books

If you are serious about doing this, you should take classes at a University or College where there is also a music program and you can record the music students etc. Don't waste your time with "tech" schools. Of course, this depends on what is available to you where you live et cetera. . . please, I do not mean to offend anyone

And also, there is the traditional recording engineer apprenticeship, but whatever it is, you need legitimate hands on experience otherwise you will grow too slowly. . .

Best,