Miloco Resource - How to Guides?



'Introduction To Successful Recording' by Pete Hofmann

# To make your recording session a success, a lot must be considered and prepared beforehand to make sure you don't waste valuable time on the day. These can literally range from knowing the local area's parking arrangements, right up to finding the correct acoustical environment to suit your sound. Of course this is all down to experience, although for newcomers to recording it's always handy to hear a few starter tips from an experienced professional. Here producer/engineer Pete Hofmann can point you in the right direction to a smooth and successful recording...

Pete Hofmann's introduction to successful recording.


'SSL Mix Automation pt. 1' by Adrian Breakspear

# Miloco boasts three SSL facilities ranging from the UK's most highly-spec'd mix studio to one of London's most affordable but popular mix and programming rooms. Miloco in-house engineer Adrian Breakspear has learnt two of these studios, The Yard and producer Hugh Padgham's exquisite Sofa Sound, like the back of his own hand, and has consequently become an expert in the skill of SSL desk automation, which he believes a knowledge of can bring a great deal more to your mix. Here, Adrian breaks down the fundamental process of SSL automation in the first chapter of a two-part guide.

Adrian Breakspear's guide to SSL Mix Automation (part 1).


'Drum Recording Techniques' by Joe Hirst

# Surely one of the most hotly-debated elements of recording music, getting the drums right is essential in laying the foundations of a good record. Joe Hirst has amassed 10 years of experience in tracking drums, and has subsequently developed some unbeatable techniques in doing so. So, you'd surely do well to indulge in the following guide, as written by Joe himself...

Joe Hirst's guide to Drum Recording.


'Vocal Recording' by Matt Foster

# One might say it's unwise to walk into a vocal booth blind-folded! There's all types of things to consider when recording vocals, from choosing the most suitable microphone for the job at hand, right through to making the vocalist feel as relaxed and at ease for the recording session. Engineer Matt Foster has a wealth of experience at deducing what works best, and here he has plenty to share...

Matt Foster's guide to Vocal Recording.


'Stereo Mic'ing Techniques' by Jon Oliffe

# Miloco assistant engineer Jon Oliffe tackles the subject microphone types, polar patterns and stereo sound, discussing the three main stereo mic'ing categories of Non-Coincident, Coincident and Near-coincident. So if you need to polish up your knowledge on your Spaced Pairs, Decca Trees and Blumlein Shufflers, Jon's valuable experience in the area could be of extreme help to you.

Jon Oliffe's guide to Stereo Mic'ing.


'Assistant Engineering Guide' by Matt Wiggins

# Most top studio professionals have experienced the 'teeth-cutting' role of a studio assistant. It's hard to find a better way for aspiring engineers and producers to take that vital early step into the world of studio work, not least to mention a prime opportunity to make a good impression amongst established professionals. Miloco assistant Matt Wiggins has been locked away in the thick of tape-op life over the last year, picking up valuable experience with many great producers and engineers, and in many of Miloco's fantastic studios, so has some key tips and vital info on what's in store for those looking at a life in assistant engineering.

Matt Wiggins' guide to Assistant Engineering.


'Protools Mixing Techniques' by Pete Hofmann

# Interface producer and engineer Pete Hofmann discusses the highly-debated different methods of Protools mixing in the modern production climate. Whether you're partial to mixing at home in the box, or opt for the traditional board mix, Pete can inform you on the pros and cons of both. He might even have the odd trick up his sleeve that he's willing to let you in on...

Pete Hofmann's guide to Protools Mixing Techniques.