Recording’s Readers’ Tracks is where respected engineer and producer Marty Peters listens to your recordings and critiques them, pointing out where and how you can make them better. Listen to the songs, read the reviews, and submit your own materials online via upload.

Artist Name: BenKi featuring Courtney Stone Title: Magic Moment Genre: Rock

Ben and Courtney have submitted a strong effort here, one that’s only a few tweaks away from being totally successful. Starting from the top, both the writing and the arrangement are top notch, and honestly, that’s a heck of a head start! The moody keyboard, bass, and electric guitar intro is kept well under our one-minute limit, and the introduction of the propulsive drums at the 42-second mark is certainly welcome! While we found the tones to be somewhat lackluster (particularly the flabby kick drum sound), the movement they provide is essential to the song. Continuing on, the double synth bass is a cool choice, and the 9:00 and 3:00 panning placement in the stereo field works quite well. As far as the remaining sound sources are concerned, through our monitors the electric rhythm guitar sounds too… READ THE FULL REVIEW

REC’s six monthly Sound Advice bulletins offer great advice:

1. On Vocals: Useful advice on recording the best vocals.
2. On Guitars: Miked or direct, electric or acoustic, ways to capture great guitar sounds.
3. On Drums: Great techniques for recording drums.
4. On Mastering & Mixing: Practical mastering topics for at-home users and tips on how to mix better songs.
5. On Acoustics: Learn how to make your room sound better.
6. On Digital Audio: All about digital and computer audio.

SAMPLE BULLETINS