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Listen "Ep 19 - The Most Powerful Tool in Your DAW"
Episode Synopsis
Studio Stuff Podcast #19 |The Most Powerful Tool in Your DAW
Automation: it’s more than fader rides, it’s storytelling. In this episode, we’re unpacking how automation evolved from a handful of engineers riding faders on an analog desk to today’s unlimited possibilities inside the DAW. And more importantly, how we use it every day to make music feel alive.
You’ll Learn:
Why automation is the most powerful creative tool in your DAW
How clip gain changes the entire mix before you even hit a compressor
When to automate faders, plugins, EQ, panning, and when not to
Why subtle automation moves create emotion listeners can’t even explain
How presets and “happy accidents” can spark inspiration
Topics & Stories:
The wild days of four people mixing on the same console at once
Our favorite creative uses of delay throws, panning tricks, and EQ rides
When automation makes a part feel like a hook
Over-automation: what it sounds like and how to avoid it
The steak and salt analogy (why sometimes less is more)
Plugin presets that sparked whole new creative directions
Listener Q&A:
Shoutout to Ken from YouTube for sparking our talk about plugin presets and experimenting as a way to stay creative in the studio.
Final Takeaway:
Automation isn’t about showing off, it’s about serving the song. When used with intention, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to make music emotional, dynamic, and unforgettable.
👉 Got a question for us?
📩 Submit it here: Form Link We’ll answer as many as we can in upcoming shows.
In God we trust