Secret Sonics

Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
  • 5.0 (41)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY
Secret Sonics

Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    #227 - Philip Weinrobe Part 1 - Death by Perfection: Bringing Humanity Back to Records

    In this episode, Ben and Carl reconnect with Phil Weinrobe to challenge common recording assumptions and share his refreshingly human-centered approach to music production. Why live tracking creates musical magic that overdubs can't replicateHow breathing sounds act like a conductor's baton for emotional impactThe vocalist, not the rhythm section, often drives the rhythmic feelTrust your gut reactions while casually listening over critical analysisConvert technical "problems" into musical opportunitiesBuild processes that reliably reach higher creative peaks fasterBuilding trust through process and preparationMaintaining flexibility while aiming for ideal scenariosLearn more about Phil - https://www.philipweinrobe.com/ Follow Phil - https://www.instagram.com/philipweinrobe/ Learn more about Carl's Studio Evolution Mastermind - https://branding.carlbahner.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    46 min

  2. NOV 12

    #226 - Why the Client Isn't Always Right (But Their Vision Is)

    In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into the delicate art of handling mix revisions and collaborating with artists. After a brief hiatus, they return with fresh insights on: Why mix revisions aren't personal attacks on your skills or tasteThe balance between respecting the artist's vision while providing professional guidanceHow to handle situations when artists' requests conflict with their stated goalsThe importance of clear communication and expectation-setting from the startWhy checking in early and often prevents major revision headaches laterTips for working with artists who communicate in different languages or styles Learn more about Carl's Studio Evolution Mastermind - https://branding.carlbahner.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    32 min

  3. SEP 23

    #225 - Burnout and Overwhelm in the Audio Industry

    In this candid episode, Ben and Carl open up about their personal struggles with burnout and overwhelm. This episode offers a raw, honest look at the realities of burnout in the audio industry, reminding listeners they're not alone in these struggles. Topics we discuss: The challenges of balancing work, family, and other life stressorsManaging communication overload across multiple platformsStrategies for dealing with burnout Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    41 min

  4. SEP 16

    #224 - Matt Huber Part 2 - The Mixer's Mastermind: Collaborative Learning and Leveling Up

    In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a competitive mindset holds you back, and Matt's latest revelations about multiband processing on the mix bus. Topics we discuss: How Matt and his collaborators deep-dive into topics like loudness for streaming platformsThe unexpected benefits of viewing other engineers as peers rather than competitorsMatt's innovative "5% better" exercise for group mixing sessionsWhy understanding the 'why' behind plugin choices is crucial for intentional mixingMatt's evolving perspective on multiband processing and how to use it more effectively Learn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/ Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/ Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    33 min

  5. SEP 9

    #223 - Matt Huber Part 1 - Mastering Loudness in the Streaming Era

    In this illuminating episode, mixing engineer Matt Huber shares his deep dive into the complex world of loudness for streaming platforms. Discover the surprising factors that influence perceived loudness on Spotify, the unexpected benefits of strategic quietness, and how to craft mixes that translate beautifully across all mediums. Whether you're a mixing novice or a seasoned pro, you'll gain valuable insights on balancing artistic integrity with the demands of the modern streaming landscape. Topics we discuss: Why brightness, not just compression, plays a crucial role in perceived loudness on streamingThe unexpected impact of vocal, kick, and snare levels on how "loud" a track feelsHow Spotify's normalization changes based on playlist contextStrategies for communicating with clients about loudness without compromising mix qualityGenre-specific loudness "targets" that help maintain musical impact and excitement Learn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/ Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/ Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    36 min

  6. SEP 2

    #222 - What We Wish We Knew When We Got Started

    If you could start your audio career over in 2024, what would you do differently? Ben and Carl explore this thought-provoking question, sharing hard-won wisdom on striking the delicate balance between artistic growth and business savvy in today's music industry landscape. Discover practical strategies for developing your craft while building the entrepreneurial skills needed for long-term success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your career, this episode offers a roadmap for thriving as a creative professional in the modern audio world. Topics we discuss: ⁠⁠Why mastering your craft alone isn't enough to build a sustainable career⁠How to cultivate your artistic community while developing business acumen⁠The unexpected benefits of embracing social media for audio professionalsWhy lifelong learning is crucial for both creative and entrepreneurial growthPractical steps for finding your unique balance between art and commerce Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    34 min

  7. AUG 26

    #221 - Dave McNair Part 2 - The Lifelong Learner's Guide to Mastering

    In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters. Get ready for a masterclass in audio wisdom that will transform the way you approach your craft! Topics we discuss: ⁠Why mastering to vinyl might be the ultimate audio challenge (and how Dave plans to tackle it in retirement)The surprising power of broad EQ curves in crafting a polished, professional soundHow to recreate the magic of analog tape compression in the digital realmDave's secret weapon for taming harsh sibilance (hint: it's not a traditional de-esser)Why studying classic recordings from the mid-90s is crucial for developing your "internal reference"and more! To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/ Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    42 min

  8. AUG 19

    #220 - Dave McNair Part 1 - The Perpetual Balance of Taste and Technique

    In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for producers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with wisdom to elevate your craft. Tune in to discover how to blend artistic intuition with technical precision, and why mastering is more crucial than ever in today's music landscape. Topics we discuss: Why your aesthetic intuition is just as important as your technical skillsThe small adjustments that can have a big impact on the final sound of your tracksAnalog vs. Digital Why mastering always starts with mid-side EQAlways prioritizing with the vocalLeaving headroom (and not lying about it ;)) To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/ Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    51 min
See All (255)

5
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.

Information

  • Creator
    Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    255
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Ben Wallick
  • Show Website
    Secret Sonics

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada