In this episode of Sound Systems Podcast, Max Bernstein speaks with Brad Smalling, Chief Executive Officer at Immersify Audio also, Atmos Mixing & Recording and Mastering Engineer at Evergroove Studio, an expert in spatial audio, source separation, and high-end music production. Brad shares how immersive audio experiences are created through object-based mixing, Dolby Atmos, and advanced source separation techniques. The conversation explores how artists and engineers can future-proof their music, remix legacy tracks, and leverage AI-driven workflows without compromising human creativity. Brad also discusses practical considerations for delivering high-quality audio across platforms, including headphones, home theaters, and large-scale venues. Key Takeaways: How spatial audio immerses listeners by placing individual instruments and vocals in a three-dimensional sound field.The technical setup of Atmos, including horizontal, LFE, and overhead speaker channels.Differences between stereo, upmixing, and true spatial audio workflows, and why upmixing can degrade quality.How source separation uses AI and machine learning to extract individual stems from legacy and modern recordings.The importance of human listening in evaluating and refining source-separated tracks.Practical uses for source separation: Atmos mixes, remixes, sync opportunities, and restoring lost multi-tracks.Future-proofing music production for VR, 3D audio, and immersive experiences.Considerations for mixing tracks to different listening devices, including phones, headphones, and high-end systems. Noteworthy Quotes: “Spatial audio allows us to immerse the listener, put them in an environment, and really have them experience and feel that music.” – Brad Smalling“Upmixing can create a technically Atmos track, but it’s a poor representation of true spatial separation.” – Brad Smalling“Source separation uses AI to identify individual instruments, but human listening is still crucial.” – Brad Smalling“Most music should be prepared for Atmos to future-proof it for VR and emerging technologies.” – Brad Smalling“Even with legacy tracks from the 60s, 70s, or 80s, source separation can give new life without re-recording artists.” – Brad Smalling“People are listening to spatial audio on AirPods, Apple Music, and even in cars without realizing it.” – Brad Smalling Key Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Brad Smalling and the topic of spatial audio 01:17 - What is spatial audio and object-based mixing 02:52 - Comparison between stereo and spatial mixes; workflow considerations 03:55 - Who is the audience for spatial audio 08:45 - How spatial audio works on headphones and head-tracking 12:06 - Preparing legacy tracks for Atmos from original multi-tracks 14:35 - Source separation techniques and AI use 19:03 - Practical uses for source-separated stems 22:39 - Listening across devices: phones, headphones, and studios 23:37 - How to hire Brad’s studio and access spatial audio services Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Follow Our Guest, Brad Smalling: Brad Smalling LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-smallingImmersify Audio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/immersifyaudio/ Evergroove Studio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evergroove/ Evergroove Studio Website: https://www.evergroove.com/ Follow the Host, Max Bernstein: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mberns01/X: https://x.com/relationlco Follow RELATIONL: Website: https://www.relationl.co/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@relationl LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/relationl/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationlco/