Resources

Twin Creek Audio is committed to helping you on your analog recording journey! We’re hard at work compiling a comprehensive collection of resources, including articles, tutorials, and links to external guides, all focused on getting the most out of your analog recording equipment. Check back soon for more information designed to help you master the art of analog audio!

Hybrid Studio Setup

Page dedicated to setting up your studio in a hybrid configuration.

Analog Signal Flow

Page to help understand analog signal flow in the recording studio.

Analog Gain Staging

This document will explain what gain staging is, why it’s critical, and how to manage your audio levels to avoid common pitfalls.

Mastering Guide

A simple guide to mastering your tracks for streaming services. Mastering is the crucial final step in audio production, ensuring your music sounds polished, consistent, and ready for distribution. While professional mastering engineers offer unparalleled expertise, understanding the basics can empower independent artists to get their music heard.

Tape Machines

Tape Machine Calibration Step by Step – page with steps to calibrate analog tape machines. This is general guide. Make sure to consult the manual for your machine for detailed calibration and alignment for your specific tape machine.

Tape Machine Links

  • Analog Rules!!! Pro-Audio Parts and Service: Specializing in servicing analog equipment since 1981, they also offer a selection of parts for brands like Ampex, MCI, Otari, and Studer. Their focus on parts indicates a deep understanding of maintenance and common issues.
  • http://www.analogrules.com/
  • Richard L. Hess’s Tape Restoration Resources: While more focused on tape restoration and transfer services, Richard Hess provides extensive details on the types of tapes and machines he works with, implying a deep technical understanding of their workings and common issues. This site can be valuable for understanding tape-related problems.
  • https://www.richardhess.com/tape/
  • Unison Audio – “How to Use Tape Machines 101 (Best Tips & Authentic Sounds)”: This article covers a good range of topics, from choosing a tape machine to calibration basics, cleaning, and various recording techniques. It’s a good starting point for understanding the fundamentals.
  • https://unison.audio/how-to-use-tape-machines/
  • Museum of Magnetic Sound Recording: While focused on the history and manufacturers of tape recorders, their site often has detailed information on specific models, which can be useful for understanding the technical aspects and common issues of vintage machines.
  • https://museumofmagneticsoundrecording.com/

Analog Tape and Tape Machine Accessories

Analog Mixing Console Links

  • Audio University Online: This site offers clear and concise explanations of audio concepts, often with visual aids. They have good introductory guides to mixing console basics.
  • https://audiouniversityonline.com/
  • Professional Audio Design (PAD): PAD specializes in the sale and service of high-end professional audio equipment, including vintage analog consoles. Their website often has information about the restoration process, which indirectly educates on what maintenance entails.
  • https://www.proaudiodesign.com/ (Look for their “Refurbishing & Service” section.)

Freelance Audio Engineer’s Guide

Setting Up and Running Your Business: Marketing an analog or hybrid studio

Shorter Simple Version of the Freelance Audio Engineer’s Guide

by popular request…

Free Software and Tools

Page with links to free software and tools for recording and mixing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Troubleshooting Common Audio Issues in an Analog or Hybrid Recording Studio