Music Production MAGIC

Everything you need to know to pick the right version, install it, and start making music.

Pro Tools has been called the "industry standard" for decades — and for good reason. It’s the DAW used in high-end studios, post-production houses, and Grammy-winning albums. But if you’re just starting out, ...

Understanding authorizations, activations, and the truth about that little USB stick

If you’ve just started working with Pro Tools, Auto-Tune, or other pro audio plugins, you’ve probably run into something called iLok — and maybe wondered:
What is this thing? Do I need it? And why does everyone hat...

When it comes to professional music production, two names often dominate the conversation — Pro Tools and Logic Pro. These digital audio workstations (DAWs) have powered some of the biggest albums, film scores, and studio sessions around the world. But which one is right for you?

Whether you're jus...

Mixing and mastering are often mentioned together—but they serve very different roles in the music production process. If you’ve ever wondered why your track doesn’t sound as clean or as loud as the pros, understanding these two stages is essential.

Let’s break down the difference between mixing an...

You’ve been teaching music — maybe voice lessons over Zoom, songwriting tips to friends, or recording tutorials on your YouTube channel. You’ve got skills, a gift for explaining things, and a real love for helping others make music.

Now you’re ready to go pro.
Not just as a teacher — but as a busin...

Choosing the right DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) can completely shape the way you create music. Ableton Live and Luna by Universal Audio are two powerful yet very different DAWs designed for different types of producers. Ableton Live is known for its loop-based workflow, electronic music focus, an...

Choosing the right Digital Audio Workstation can shape your entire music production workflow. Ableton Live and Logic Pro are two of the most powerful DAWs on the market, but they cater to different styles of music-making. If you're an electronic music producer, singer-songwriter, or mixing engineer,...

You’ve probably heard the phrase “mix in mono” tossed around in music production circles. But what does it actually mean? And why would anyone mix a song without using the full stereo field?

Mixing in mono might sound like a step backward—but in reality, it’s a powerful technique for building clari...

Ableton Live is known for its unique workflow, offering two distinct views that set it apart from traditional DAWs: Session View and Arrangement View. Both views allow you to create, record, and edit music, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding how and when to use each one is key to ...

When it comes to professional music production on Mac, Logic Pro and Luna are two standout DAWs that offer vastly different experiences. While both are powerful and studio-ready, they’re built for different types of producers, workflows, and sonic goals.

Whether you’re tracking a live band or compo...

Big Question: How can you learn professional audio engineering without paying for an expensive recording school?

Big Answer: With the right tools, resources, and mindset, you can master audio engineering at home for a fraction of the cost of traditional education. From recording and mixing to maste...

Two industry-standard DAWs, two introductory versions, but built for different workflows. Ableton Live Intro and Pro Tools Intro both offer a taste of professional music production, but they serve very different types of musicians and producers. Whether you’re making beats, recording live instrument...

Big Question: How can you create an inspiring home studio that looks great and sounds professional?

Big Answer: You don’t need a massive budget to build a beautiful, functional home studio. With smart gear choices, proper room setup, and an inspiring aesthetic, you can design a space that fuels cre...

Two wheels. Two ways to navigate harmony. One rooted in centuries of music theory, the other built for DJs spinning beats in the moment. The Circle of Fifths and the Camelot Wheel both unlock the secrets of key relationships, but they serve entirely different purposes. Understanding the difference—a...

Big Question: How do you turn a simple idea into a fully produced, professional-sounding song?

Big Answer: The process of writing and producing your own music can feel overwhelming, but by following a clear step-by-step workflow, you can bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re starting with a melo...

Big Question: Can you achieve pro-level vocal recordings without an expensive studio setup?

Big Answer: Yes! With the right techniques, budget-friendly gear, and a smart approach to recording and mixing, you can create high-quality vocals from your home studio that sound clear and professional.

He...