Audio Post Production & VO

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: That a video editor can make a good enough mix. Good enough is not great. You need someone to mix your audio.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Do one thing well (like a mix) and then go on to do the next thing well. Repeat. I evaluate a project/mix (.aaf or .omf file), provide a quote and turn the project around in 5-7 days. I return a stereo mix to the client that will sync to their picture. One round of revisions are included at no extra charge.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I use a host-based hardware, Pro Tools Ultimate software system that includes: a 3.6 GHz Intel 10-Core i9 27” iMac with 52 GB of RAM, an Avid Carbon interface, SSD external drive for audio, iZotope plugins (including RX, Ozone & Neutron) and Native Instruments Komplete plugins. Genelec speakers are my monitors. LA-610 mk II's are part of my outboard gear. Roland digital piano, Gretch drums, mics.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What are your expectations? What is your deadline? What type(s) of files can you send me? What type of file(s) would you like me to send you?

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Compare quality mixes, and then work with the person you like the most.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: A small drum set, a piano/MIDI controller, my Pro Tools rig, a Neumann mic and my iPhone.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: After four years of college, I attended Full Sail Center for the Recording Arts. Then I worked as an engineer at a post house in Atlanta. I earned a regional Emmy Award and edited/mixed Will The Circle Be Unbroken, a PRI radio program that won a Peabody Award. Since then I have worked as a freelance engineer for years and years.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Efficient and friendly.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Video producers and those looking to create audio soundtracks. Because I believe that if a person spends time making something look good, it ought to sound good as well.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Time spent in pre-production planning your project pays off. Stay organized, manage your assets, label your tracks and follow procedures for recording, overdubbing, editing and mixing.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: My work is audio-for-video mixes. I can help clients pick a licensed piece of music for the production, add sound design, record a VO. Right now, that's most of what I do. I co-wrote and produced six music projects (CD’s) for the American Music Company/Westar, a production music library. My music has been used in many broadcast TV programs, cable programs and radio commercials.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Listening.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring thoughtfulness and experience to mixing a video soundtrack.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Geoff Emerick, Hugh Padgham, Bob Ezrin/David Gilmour, Eric Clapton, U2, Larry Crane, Rudy Van Gelder, Ernest Tubb, Dave Cobb, Sturgill Simpson

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: Mix, polish and sweeten audio for video.