Get a high-quality piano for songwriting
Problem: lack of inspiring instruments for composition
Invest in a vintage guitar for authentic tones
Problem: inauthentic guitar tones in recordings
Use reference tracks to decide core sounds
Use hot swapping to preview sounds in context
Use post-it notes for AB comparing sounds
Research genre-specific classic sounds for faster selection
Iteratively narrow down sound options through comparison
Discard sounds that don't fit the track's vibe, even if they're good
Avoid over-reliance on generic sample packs
Problem: uninspiring sound selection
The root cause of bad mixes is often poor sample selection, not mixing skill
Problem: wrong assumption about mix quality causes
Mistake: using samples with unnatural transients
Problem: samples lack punch, require excessive processing
Avoid samples that dictate the song's direction
Problem: creative constraints from sample choice
Select samples with usable mid-range energy
Problem: mid-range clashes, excessive EQ
Use samples with tail information for creative flexibility
Problem: limited tail processing options
Mistake: Assuming the mix can fix bad composition/sound selection
Problem: mixing poor composition, wasted time
Mistake: Recording too many elements without making decisions
Problem: inefficient workflow, poor mix focus
Volume is 90% of mixing when recordings are high-quality
Problem: over-processing good recordings
Use a 'favourites pack' for quick sample access
Problem: time wasted searching for samples
Prioritize tried-and-tested sounds for tech house
Problem: overcomplicated or mismatched sounds
Use sample packs for transitions and atmospheres to avoid overworking the brain
Problem: creative burnout, overthinking sound design
Use free samples and resources for beginners
Problem: limited resources for new producers
Test kicks in context before finalizing
Problem: inappropriate kick tone for genre
Prioritize sound selection over early mixing
Problem: incompatible sounds causing mixing issues
Genre-appropriate sounds self-align in context
Problem: incohesive sound choices
Organize samples into favorites folders
Problem: time wasted searching for samples
Switch kick to harder sound for impact
Problem: kick lacks punch, feels muddy
Use shaker loops with tempo and frequency matching
Problem: shakers clashing with other elements
Mistake: Overpaying for plugins with limited value
Problem: wasted budget on overpriced plugins
Mistake: Overlooking value in budget plugins
Problem: wasted time on low-value plugins
Use drum loop constructions for clap samples
Problem: finding a suitable clap sample
Organize favorites for efficient sample collection
Problem: inefficient sample browsing or selection
Save samples in a dedicated folder for faster workflow
Problem: time wasted searching for samples during production
Search for vocals in the same pack to ensure tonal cohesion
Problem: Inconsistent vocal timbres breaking track cohesion
Use drum samples with compatible DAW versions
Problem: sample incompatibility with DAW
Iterate through samples to find the 'right' sound
Use Ableton's built-in kick and clap samples for quick prototyping
Problem: copyright risk with unlicensed samples
Avoid using copyrighted material to prevent legal issues
Problem: copyright infringement
Sound selection comes from experience and trial/error
Problem: difficulty choosing appropriate sounds
Have a pack of kicks that work on different songs
Problem: time-consuming kick design
Choose microphones based on budget and purpose
Problem: overpaying for unnecessary microphone features
Avoid too many mediocre elements — prioritize quality over quantity
Problem: overcomplicated arrangements, lack of focus
Use Ableton's built-in sounds instead of external plugins like Splice
Problem: high costs for external plugins
Reuse existing tracks for quick subbase/ percussion elements
Problem: time-consuming element creation
Use Splice for sample library access
Problem: limited sample library, time-consuming curation