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Sound Discussion

Sound Discussion

By: Ben Holmes Nate Kelmes Neil Merchant
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"Sound Discussion" is a monthly podcast hosted by Ben Holmes, Nate Kelmes, and Neil Merchant. Each episode, we roll up our sleeves and dive into practical topics surrounding music production, recording, songwriting, mixing, and mastering.


Join us for candid conversations that demystify the creative and technical aspects of music making. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our hosts bring a down-to-earth approach to sharing their insights, making it easy for everyone to tune in and pick up valuable tips.


From sharing personal anecdotes to discussing industry trends, "Sound Discussion" is your go-to source for real talk about what goes on behind the scenes. No fancy jargon, just genuine discussions about the art and craft of music production.


So, if you're curious about the nuts and bolts of how your favorite tracks come together or looking to improve your own production skills, join Ben, Nate, and Neil, as well as the occasional guest host, as they navigate the world of music production with humor, practical advice, and a passion for the craft. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation at "Sound Discussion."

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben Holmes, Nate Kelmes, Neil Merchant Music
Episodes
  • Tom Vaughan - Chord Electronics

    Tom Vaughan - Chord Electronics
    Jun 30 2026
    Just a heads up! We are switching to sequential episodes away from seasons.---Big thanks to @ChordElectronicsLtd for supporting this episode. Their British-built DACs and headphone amps bring true studio-level detail into the listening experience, with gear used everywhere from hi-fi setups to world-class studios.Check out the Mojo 2 and more from Chord Electronics here: https://chordelectronics.co.uk/mojo-2---In this episode, we’re joined by Tom Vaughan of Chord Electronics for a conversation about sound, technology, and why digital-to-analog conversion matters more than most people realize.Tom’s path into audio is anything but typical. Before working in high-end audio, he was a professional bassoonist, and that background gives him a really interesting perspective on how music is performed, recorded, and ultimately experienced by the listener.We talk about the evolution of Chord Electronics, the impact of their Hugo DAC, and what makes one converter feel different from another — not just in terms of specs, but in timing, accuracy, depth, and emotional connection.We also get into the practical side of listening: how DACs, headphones, speakers, and monitoring chains shape the decisions musicians, producers, mixers, and mastering engineers make every day.At the heart of it all is a simple idea: better sound helps us connect more deeply with music. And whether you’re creating, recording, mixing, mastering, or just listening, the way your system translates that music matters.Key Five TakeawaysTom Vaughan brings a rare perspective to audio, combining his background as a bassoonist with his work in high-end audio engineering.Digital-to-analog conversion plays a major role in how we perceive depth, detail, timing, and emotional connection in music.Chord Electronics approaches DAC design differently, using FPGA-based technology rather than standard off-the-shelf DAC chips.Better monitoring and conversion can help musicians, producers, mixers, and mastering engineers make more confident creative decisions.At its core, the conversation is about the bridge between technical accuracy and emotional impact — how better sound can bring us closer to the performance.Resources & LinksChord Electronics - https://chordelectronics.co.uk/Chord Mojo 2 - https://chordelectronics.co.uk/mojo-2Dan Millice - https://www.millicemastering.com/‪@NaturlAudio‬ AL-1 Limiter - https://naturl.audio/Listen to Sound Discussion:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4QLiTjT...Subscribe To Our Newsletter:https://sounddiscussionpodcast.com/newsletterShop:https://sounddiscussionpodcast.com/shopSound Discussion Is:Nate KelmesBen HolmesNeil Merchant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • Sylvia Massy: The Art of Fearless Recording

    Sylvia Massy: The Art of Fearless Recording
    May 29 2026
    Big thanks to https://chordelectronics.co.uk/ for supporting this episode. Their British-built DACs and headphone amps bring true studio-level detail into the listening experience, with gear used everywhere from hi-fi setups to world-class studios.Check out the Mojo 2 and more from Chord Electronics here: https://chordelectronics.co.uk/mojo-2In this episode, we dive into the world of recording, gear, and artistry with legendary producer and engineer Sylvia Massy. Sylvia shares stories from her career, insights into her favorite equipment, and her adventures in unique recording environments—plus, a look at her upcoming book on vintage microphones.Key Insights:-Sylvia’s transition from punk bands in San Francisco to working with Bands like Tool and Green Jello.-Her preference for vintage Neve consoles for their unique EQ and sound character.-Creative recording stories, including capturing sound in extraordinary locations like bell towers and cliffs.-The versatility of studio setups, from dedicated control rooms to live-room recording.-Her extensive collection of historic microphones, including rare pieces used in Antarctica.-Tips for home studio setup, emphasizing what’s truly essential.-Perspectives on AI’s role in music, considering both its potential and limitations.-Her upcoming publication, which features over 600 vintage microphones with historical context.Resources & Links:Sylvia Massy's Microphone Book "The Great Book of Vintage Microphones" (Due late 2026) - https://amzn.to/4dWankBRupert Neve Designs 5088 Console - https://rupertneve.com/5088Reaper DAW - https://reaper.fmFender Studio Pro (prev. Studio One) - https://www.fender.com/pages/fender-studio-proWaveLab Mastering Software - https://www.steinberg.net/wavelab/Connect with Sylvia Massy:Website - https://shop.sylviamassy.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sylvia_massyYouTube - @SylviaMassyKnowsStuff Listen to Sound Discussion:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-discussion/id1727711992Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4QLiTjT6OpY3prLIL8QoqDSubscribe To Our Newsletter:https://sounddiscussionpodcast.com/newsletterShop:https://sounddiscussionpodcast.com/shopSound Discussion Is:Nate Kelmes - https://www.natekelmes.comBen Holmes - https://linktr.ee/benholmesmasteringNeil Merchant - https://www.facebook.com/holdagrunge​ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Crafting Your Unique Sound - Nick Vivid

    Crafting Your Unique Sound - Nick Vivid
    Apr 30 2026

    Join us as we explore the world of DIY music gear, circuit building, and the passion for creating unique soundscapes with Nick Vivid. Discover how building your own equipment can transform your music production and performance. In this episode, Nick Vivid shares his insights on music production, the importance of authenticity, and industry trends. Discover how to stay true to your sound, the value of visual and musical coherence, and practical tips for artists and producers.


    Get next month's episode ONE WEEK EARLY! Sign up here: www.sounddiscussionpodcast.com/newsletter


    Topics Discussed:


    DIY music gear and circuit building

    The influence of custom equipment on sound quality

    The passion and process of building studio and live gear Industry reward for safe, familiar sounds

    The importance of emotional resonance in mixing

    Balancing technical and creative aspects in music

    The influence of visual art on musical identity

    Industry risk-taking and artist authenticity


    Links:


    Reaper DAW - https://www.reaper.fm/

    Freestyler DMX Software - https://www.freestylerdmx.be/

    Steam Powered Radio API 2520 PDF - https://steampoweredradio.com/api-2520.pdf

    Dan Millice Podcast Episode - https://youtu.be/mI1AUi7UDfs

    FabFilter Pro-L2 Limiter Plugin - https://www.fabfilter.com/products/pro-l-2-limiter-plug-in


    Nick's Socials:


    Website - https://nickvivid.com/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickvivid/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 15 mins
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Ben, Nate and Neil takes us on a journey through all things music and sound.
Engaging discussion and guests make it more the worth while and a thoroughly good listen, whether in the car, on a break or wherever you have a way to listen.

A high level podcast you need in your life, even if you are not a musician or involved in the music industry.

The only 'Sound Discussion' you need!

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