Frequently Asked Questions
What is your usual turnaround time?
For singles, I can usually deliver a first mix in a few days from receiving the stems. For albums, it usually takes 3-4 weeks. If you have a specific deadline, let me know and I’ll do my best to work with you.
What genres do you usually work in?
I am happy to mix all genres, but I’ve worked mainly on indie rock, indie pop, folk, dream pop, shoegaze, alternative, lofi and synth pop projects. Check out my discography for examples.
What do you charge?
My mixing rate depends on the scope of the project. When reaching out, please give me as much information as possible about your project. Includes things like your deadline, track count, vocal tuning needed, quantization needed, additional production needed (drum programming, guitar/bass tracking), etc. All this info will help me give you an accurate quote.
Can you quantize my drums?
Yes, I can quantize drums and edit timing for other instruments as needed. I usually add a little more to my mixing rate to accommodate this depending on how many tracks need to be quantized. I would caution that quantizing can be problematic for multi-track drums if the timing is significantly off/sloppy. Ideally you deliver the best performance possible and quantization is only a final polish to tighten a performance.
Can you tune my vocals?
Yes, I am happy to tune your vocals. I usually add a little more to my mixing rate to accommodate this depending on how many tracks need to be tuned. I use Melodyne and try to keep any tuning to a minimum to preserve the natural character and intonation of the performance. If you want a stronger treatment, please provide references to indicate your intended aesthetic.
Do you master? Is that included?
Yes, I do master tracks as well. In general, I think it’s better to not master tracks that you mix because it’s a great chance to get another perspective. I’m happy to recommend mastering engineers. But if your budget is tight, I’m happy to figure out a bundled mix & master rate that works for you.
Do you record bands as well?
Yes! If you are located near Boston, MA I’m happy to engineer for you. I have a mobile 10 channel rig I can bring to your space and I also engineer at The Record Co. in South Boston.
How should I send my tracks to you?
I prefer to receive all tracks as WAV files in the native resolution that your recorded them (ideally 24bit, 44.1khz). Please send via a file transfer service like WeTransfer, Sendspace, Google drive or Dropbox to brianknolen@gmail.com. I prefer WeTransfer.
Additional requirements:
Make sure all WAV files start at the same point. I should be able to drop them all into a new session and have them be in sync.
Remove any plugins/processing that isn’t essential to the sound (ex. Amp sims). I’m open to rebuilding tones if you provide a reference, but if you like the basic sound you have there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. When in doubt send a wet & dry version.
Clearly label all instruments and indicate if they have an intended pan position (ex. Drum overhead L, Drum overhead R).
Do you offer mix advice?
Yes, I strongly believe in sharing my knowledge and frequently make production tutorials for iZotope and LEWITT. If you would like to set up a one-on-one consultation on your mix or a time to get tips on mixing in general, reach out to me and we can arrange something.