July 2023

Talking to Audeze: Chris Berens

Audeze, founded in 2008, is a renowned audio company known for revolutionising headphone technology. Their commitment to exceptional sound quality and innovative designs has earned them a stellar reputation among audiophiles and professionals. As part of our recent partnership, we spoke to Chris Berens, head of Artist Relations at Audeze, about his background, the company’s history and what sets their products apart from the competition.

To begin with can you tell us a little about your background – where did your career start and how did you first become interested in the world of audio gear?

I’ve been a music lover all my life. I grew up with an audiophile dad who also played trumpet, and my mom was a drummer in the jazz and marching bands in high school and college. As a kid I recall wanting to play guitar and drums at a very young age, then in my early teens when hiphop broke I got a couple turntables and a Radio Shack mixer and started to record things to my boombox (mostly noisy crap, a habit that still continues to this day haha). I remember in my late teens my dad handed me down some lovely hifi speakers (Vandersteen IIcs, my first floor standers with big woofers), which I thought would make a way better bass amp than my little Ampeg…. I played about 3 notes before the speakers blew out and that was my first real exposure to the differences between home hifi and pro audio gear!

Fast forward to college, and the art school I attended (San Francisco Art Institute, RIP) had a film program with a sound class, which I took advantage of to make more dodgy recordings in higher fidelity with some of my friends. Several bands, production gigs and “dad jobs” later, I started at Audeze in 2016, running the customer support department, which turned into full-time artist relations in 2020 as I’d started to build relationships with some of the artists that constantly seemed to be contacting us. Since then I’ve been very fortunate to visit some truly amazing studios, hang with wonderful creative people, and be somewhat involved in the product development side providing feedback from those adventures.

What inspired the founding of the company?

Audeze’s founders were four guys: Sankar and Dr. C, both still with the company and very active, plus two guys no longer actively involved named Alex and Pete. Sankar came from the high end movie camera and code-writing worlds and is currently our CEO, Dr C is our CTO and is THE preeminent planar magnetic driver expert in the world, Alex was connected to the music/production industries and was instrumental in seeding our original headphones to the pro community, and Pete was responsible for the original flexible circuit material we started using for diaphragm film (and he still runs that same company). Basically, they started by looking at ways to make big planar speaker arrays for public address – one of which still lives in our facility – and then shifted to headphones when they discovered that the film made a nearly ideal single-driver for headphones. After many prototypes (and at least twice as many beers), the first pairs of LCD-2s were brought to an audio show called Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in 2009, where they were hugely successful. From there we just kept pushing to make things better, and we still do.

A little story about how the company name came about: Audeze was started in 2008 in a garage in Southern California, when the four founders wanted to pursue a “journey through audio.” On the wall of the garage was a 2001: a Space Odyssey movie poster, which became the inspiration for how Audeze was named: changing the spelling to reference AUDio, and the EZE part was probably suggested by the beer! So we say Ah-deh-Zee, but you can pronounce it however you want, as long as you use the cans. 😉

What do you believe sets you apart from other companies offering similar products?

Absolutely without a doubt: our unique technology! There are other companies making planar magnetic headphones out there of course, but none of them do things like we do. First off, we use some of the thinnest film in the industry to make our diaphragms (either 1.8 or 0.5 microns, thinner than a blood cell!), which makes for very fast transient response and very low distortion. On top of that, we have several patents on the way we make our drivers, including: Fluxor magnets which focus a huge amount of magnetic power on the diaphragms for greater control over movement; Fazor elements which help maintain phase coherency, imaging accuracy, and increased treble extension; and Uniforce voice coils that equalize the magnetic force on the diaphragm for even lower distortion. I could go on with other stuff (not even mentioning our electrostatic innovations yet, but see below). Anyone interested in this nerdy stuff should check out our fun and informative tech articles:https://www.audeze.com/blogs/technology-and-innovation

Which models are you most proud of to date and why?

I’ll pick three for pro audio:

The ground-breaking LCD-X https://www.audeze.com/products/lcd-x which was the first model that made mix engineers say “I can mix on headphones!”
The next-generation LCD-5 https://www.audeze.com/products/lcd-5 that shone a new light on inner details and brought comfort to a new level.
The amazing CRBN electrostatic https://www.audeze.com/products/crbnwhich I lovingly call our “mastering headphone” because people like Tony Cousins, Bob Ludwig and Bob Katz have come to rely on them. (BTW, these are also my personal favorite cans, I listen to them daily.)

Do you have any dreams to expand to other ranges of products; monitors, microphones etc that you can talk about?

Our engineering team occupies the entire upper floor of our building, and we spend millions of dollars developing new products every year, so there’s always something in the works! Being able to talk about new stuff is a different story, but they’ve definitely been exploring microphone technology for several years, and Dr. C has his own speaker company called Dragonfire Acoustics. We have some new gaming stuff in the works, and they’re constantly looking for ways to improve, so some sort of new flagship is inevitable (but hold your horses, nothing is coming soon haha!).

And finally, what are your top 3 albums of all time?

Oh man, I can only pick three? In no particular order, three albums that always make me cry, and subject to change as soon as I hit send:

Miles Davis “In a Silent Way”
Kate Bush “Hounds of Love” (not related to Stranger Things, I’ve been loving this record since 1989)
Fleet Foxes “Helplessness Blues”

A big thank you to Chris for taking the time to speak to us on behalf of Audeze. It was a pleasure learning about his journey in the audio gear industry and gaining insights into the founding of Audeze. We are thrilled to be in partnership with such an esteemed and forward-thinking company. The addition of their exceptional headphones to our monitoring options elevates our capabilities and promises enhanced audio experiences for our members and clients!

At Ten87 Studios we offer long term studio hire and day hire music studios. Each recording studio is acoustically treated and sound proofed to optimise any type of audio recording and music production. We are home to a large community of musicians, producers, engineers and audio professionals working in the music industry. Our main day hire studio is a world class tracking facility equipped with the best in recording studio gear, instruments, outboard and backline. We’re based in Seven Sisters, Tottenham with easy transport links to the city centre – ideal for anyone looking for a London recording studio.

Unleashing Creativity

Unleashing Creativity: Optimizing Your Acoustic Recording Studio Session at Ten87 Studio

Recording music in an acoustic studio is a transformative experience that allows artists to capture their unique sound and unleash their creativity. Ten87 Studios, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and impeccable sound quality, provides the perfect setting for musicians to bring their musical vision to life. In this blog post, we will explore how to make the most of your acoustic recording studio session at Ten87 Studio, ensuring an optimal and productive experience.

Plan Ahead:

Preparation is key to a successful recording session. Begin by defining your goals and vision for the project. Consider the sound you want to achieve and the emotions you wish to evoke. Collaborate with your band members or producers to ensure everyone is on the same page. Prepare your arrangements, lyrics, and any necessary charts or sheet music in advance. This will save time and allow you to focus on the performance during the session.

Studio Selection:

Choosing the right studio is crucial, and Ten87 Studios offers an exceptional acoustic recording environment. Their expertise in capturing the purest sounds will elevate your music to new heights. The studio’s acoustic treatments, cutting-edge equipment, and experienced engineers will provide the perfect backdrop for your recording. Take advantage of their studio tour and consult with the team to understand how best to utilize their facilities.

Equipment and Setup:

Ten87 Studio boasts an impressive array of high-quality equipment. Collaborate with their engineers to select the most suitable microphones, preamps, and other gear for your project. Experiment with different microphone placements and room acoustics to capture the desired sound. Take the time to fine-tune the instrument setups and ensure everything is in proper working condition. A well-calibrated setup will yield superior recordings.

Capture the Magic:

During the recording session, focus on capturing the magic of your performance. Maintain a relaxed and positive atmosphere to enhance creativity. Take breaks to rest and re-energize, as fatigue can affect the quality of your recordings. Trust your instincts and allow yourself to experiment and explore new ideas. Ten87’s comfortable and inspiring environment will help bring out your best performance.

Collaborate with Engineers:

Ten87’s skilled engineers are there to support you throughout the recording process. They possess a wealth of technical knowledge and artistic sensibilities that can enhance your music. Collaborate closely with them, communicate your vision, and take advantage of their expertise. They can offer valuable suggestions on mic placement, mixing techniques, and post-production effects to bring your sound to life.

Conclusion:

Recording music in an acoustic studio is an incredible opportunity to capture the essence of your sound. By following these guidelines, and by choosing Ten87 Studio as your recording destination, you can optimize your acoustic recording studio session and unlock your musical potential. With careful planning, collaboration with engineers, and the use of Ten87 Studio’s top-notch facilities and equipment, you will create a recording that resonates with listeners and stands the test of time. Embrace the creative journey, and let your music flourish within the walls of Ten87 Studio.

From Concept to Completion: A guide to recording at Ten87

Are you a musician or a band looking to take your sound to the next level? Are you searching for a professional recording studio that can bring your musical vision to life? Ten87 Studio may be the place for you. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the journey from concept to completion at our day hire studio The Club, providing you with insights into the recording process and highlighting why this studio is the perfect choice for your next project.

Setting the Stage

When you arrive at Ten87 Studio, you’ll immediately notice the professional atmosphere and state-of-the-art equipment. The studio is designed to provide a comfortable and creative environment for artists. The control room is equipped with the latest technology, including high-quality microphones, mixing consoles, and top-notch monitoring systems. The live room is acoustically treated to ensure optimal sound capture, allowing for a truly immersive recording experience.

Pre-production and Planning

Before diving into the recording process, the Ten87 team will work closely with you to understand your artistic vision and goals. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is on the same page and allows for effective planning and organisation. The studio’s experienced engineers will offer their expertise and provide valuable input to help you achieve the best possible results.

Recording

Once the pre-production phase is complete, it’s time to hit the record button! Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or a full band, The Club offers an exceptional recording experience. The engineers will guide you through the process, ensuring that every performance is captured flawlessly. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence guarantee that your music will sound its absolute best.

Mixing and Post-production

After the recording phase, the Ten87 team will meticulously mix and polish your tracks. Using their extensive knowledge of sound engineering and advanced mixing techniques, they will bring out the best elements of each recording, balancing levels, enhancing tonal qualities, and adding any necessary effects. This stage is crucial in shaping the final sound of your music.

Mastering

The final step in the recording process is mastering, where the tracks are refined to achieve a consistent and polished sound across the entire album or EP. Ten87 Studio works with skilled mastering engineers who will apply the finishing touches to your music, ensuring that it’s ready for distribution on various platforms.

Conclusion

Recording at Ten87 Studio is an experience like no other. From the initial concept to the final product, the team at Ten87 is dedicated to bringing your musical vision to life. With their state-of-the-art equipment, experienced engineers, and commitment to quality, you can trust that your music will receive the utmost care and attention. So, if you’re looking for a professional recording studio that goes above and beyond, Ten87 Studio is the perfect choice for your next project. Get ready to elevate your sound to new heights.

Piano Recording

While there are numerous tried and tested methods for capturing exquisite piano sounds, it’s worth considering alternative approaches that may perfectly complement specific tracks. Unfortunately, time constraints often hinder the luxury of experimentation, leading us to rely on reliable techniques for quick and guaranteed results.

Yet, taking a step back to contemplate different approaches can provide an invaluable well of variety to draw from when the situation calls for it. Recently, during a captivating piano recording workshop with community member Danny T, we witnessed the astounding transformation of the same piano and player (the amazing Amelia Lawn) through the application of diverse techniques with some incredible microphones from the lovely people at DPA. Each approach yielded impressive results, but it was apparent that certain methods were better suited to particular tracks. Thus, having a repertoire of techniques at your fingertips, ready for swift implementation and predictable outcomes, is truly advantageous.

Amelia, a skilled studio assistant engineer and an immensely talented musician also assisted in the setup process and treated us to captivating improvised piano performances, allowing us to compare and document the microphone setups showcased in the video.

Our hope is that this video demonstrates an alternative recording style that proves invaluable in suitable sessions. Furthermore, we aspire to inspire others to embark on their own sonic adventures and push the boundaries of piano recording. If you possess an intriguing piano recording technique and wish to participate, kindly reach out to us. We would be thrilled to visit your studio and exchange insights.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Mike Banks, and recordproduction.com, Amelia Lawn for her invaluable contributions, and Danny Trachtenberg for graciously dedicating time to make this feature possible.

Go check the full video here.

The Importance of Ear Care for Musicians and Engineers

In the world of music and audio engineering, our ears are our most valuable tools. The ability to hear accurately and discern subtle nuances is essential for creating, performing, and mixing music. To ensure long-term auditory health and preserve the ability to appreciate and create beautiful sounds, musicians and audio engineers must prioritise ear care.

Yesterday, Dr Riaz Rampuri of Auris Ear Care paid a visit to the studios to provide some of our community members with an ear health check up and cleaning service using micro suction technology. The experience was excellent and we would recommend their services to anyone seeking ear care or ear wax removal in London.

The Importance of Ear Care

Hearing Protection: Musicians and audio engineers are often exposed to loud music and amplified sound for extended periods. This continuous exposure can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) or tinnitus. By using appropriate hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs, professionals can reduce the risk of long-term damage to their hearing.
Clear Monitoring: Accurate monitoring is essential for musicians and audio engineers. If excessive earwax or debris obstructs the ear canal, it can impact the perception of sound and compromise the ability to make precise adjustments or deliver consistent performances. Regular ear cleaning helps maintain clear and unobstructed ear canals, ensuring accurate monitoring and sound production.
Prevention of Infections: Musicians who use in-ear monitors or wear headphones for extended periods are more prone to developing ear infections. These devices can create a warm and moist environment in the ear, promoting the growth of bacteria or fungi. Proper ear hygiene and cleaning, including micro suction when necessary, can help prevent such infections and related complications.

Micro Suction: A Gentle Approach to Ear Cleaning

Micro suction has gained popularity as a safe and effective method for ear cleaning, particularly for musicians and audio engineers. Here’s why it’s preferred:

Precision Cleaning: Micro suction employs a specialized suction device that allows healthcare professionals to precisely target and remove excessive earwax and debris. This ensures a thorough cleaning without the risk of pushing the material further into the ear canal or damaging sensitive structures.
Safety: The procedure is performed under direct visualization using an otoscope, ensuring careful monitoring throughout. This reduces the risk of injury to the ear canal or eardrum, making it a safe option for maintaining ear health.
Quick and Effective: Micro suction provides immediate relief by swiftly clearing the ear canal. Musicians and audio engineers can experience improved hearing clarity and accurate sound perception almost instantly after the procedure, allowing them to continue their work without interruption.

As musicians and audio engineers, our ears are invaluable assets that require diligent care. By prioritising ear care, including the regular cleaning of earwax and debris, professionals can safeguard their auditory health and preserve their ability to create and appreciate music. Micro suction offers a safe, precise, and effective method for ear cleaning, allowing musicians and engineers to maintain optimal hearing clarity and accuracy. Remember, your ears are the gateway to your artistry, so take care of them and let the sound of success resonate through your work.

Unlocking Creativity: How to Prevent Musician’s Block for Recording Artists

Musician’s block, also known as creative block, can be a frustrating and disheartening experience for recording artists. It’s that dreaded feeling when inspiration seems to be elusive, and you find yourself staring at a blank canvas, unable to create new melodies or lyrics. However, there are strategies you can employ to overcome this hurdle and reignite your creativity. In this article, we will explore effective techniques that recording artists can use to prevent musician’s block and keep their creative juices flowing.

Explore Different Genres and Styles:

One effective way to combat musician’s block is to step outside of your comfort zone and explore different genres and styles of music. Experimenting with new sounds and rhythms can spark fresh ideas and inspire creative breakthroughs. Embrace diverse musical influences and challenge yourself to incorporate elements from various genres into your own compositions.

Collaborate with Other Artists:

Collaboration with fellow musicians can breathe new life into your creative process. Engage in songwriting sessions or collaborative projects where you can bounce ideas off one another and draw inspiration from different perspectives. Working with others can provide valuable feedback, push you out of your creative rut, and generate exciting new possibilities.

Create a Structured Routine:

Establishing a structured routine can help train your mind to be more receptive to creativity. Set aside dedicated time for music creation, whether it’s daily, a few times a week, or during your most inspired hours. Stick to this routine, even when you don’t feel particularly inspired. By consistently engaging with your craft, you create a habit of creativity that can help overcome musician’s block.

Seek Inspiration Outside of Music:

Sometimes, finding inspiration requires looking beyond the realm of music. Engage in activities that stimulate your mind and ignite your imagination. Explore art galleries, read books, watch movies, travel, or spend time in nature. These experiences can infuse fresh ideas and emotions into your music, helping you break free from creative stagnation.

Embrace Improvisation:

Improvisation is a powerful tool for unlocking creativity. Set aside time to freely explore your instrument without any expectations or limitations. Allow yourself to play intuitively and let your ideas flow naturally. Improvisation exercises can lead to unexpected musical discoveries and inspire new directions for your compositions.

Take Breaks and Rest:

Sometimes, musician’s block is a sign of mental and physical fatigue. Pushing yourself too hard without breaks can lead to burnout and creative stagnation. Give yourself permission to take regular breaks and rest. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. Returning to your music with a refreshed mind can often unlock hidden inspiration.

Set Goals and Challenges:

Setting specific goals and challenges can provide a sense of direction and motivation. Break down larger projects into smaller, achievable milestones. For instance, aim to write a certain number of songs within a specific timeframe or challenge yourself to experiment with a new instrument or technique. These goals and challenges can reignite your passion and drive, pushing you past any creative blockades.

Embrace Technology and Music Production Tools:

Modern technology offers a plethora of music production tools that can spark creativity. Experiment with new software, plugins, or digital instruments that can inspire fresh sounds and arrangements. These tools can often provide a new perspective and serve as catalysts for creativity.

Maintain a Creative Journal:

Keep a journal dedicated to capturing your creative ideas, lyrics, melodies, and inspirations. Use it as a repository for all your musical thoughts, no matter how small or incomplete they may seem. Referencing your creative journal when facing musician’s block can help reignite past ideas or provide inspiration for new ones.

Seek Feedback and Support:

Reach out to fellow musicians, mentors, or trusted friends to seek feedback on your work. Honest feedback can provide valuable insights and perspectives that can break through creative blocks. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages and motivates you to keep pushing your artistic boundaries.

Conclusion:

Musician’s block is a common challenge for recording artists, but it doesn’t have to hinder your creativity indefinitely. By exploring different genres, collaborating with others, establishing a routine, seeking inspiration beyond music, and embracing improvisation, you can break free from creative stagnation. Taking breaks, setting goals, and utilising technology can also stimulate your creative flow. Remember, creativity is a journey, and by implementing these strategies, you can keep the music flowing and prevent musician’s block from hindering your artistic growth.

Start your musical journey today and join our diverse Ten87 community.

Top 10 Tips for Recording Your First Single at Ten87 Studio

Top 10 Tips for Recording Your First Single at Ten87 Studio

Recording your first single is an exhilarating experience that marks a significant milestone in your music career. The quality of your recording can make or break the success of your release, which is why it’s essential to approach the process with careful planning and preparation. As an aspiring artist, partnering with a professional recording studio like Ten87 can help you achieve the best possible results. To help you navigate the recording process successfully, here are ten crucial tips to consider when recording your first single at Ten87 Studio.

Plan and Prepare:

Before heading into the studio, take the time to plan your recording session. Define your goals, choose the right song, and determine the desired style and sound. Practice extensively, ensuring that you and your bandmates are well-rehearsed and ready to give your best performance.

Choose the Right Studio:

Selecting the right studio is vital for the success of your recording. Ten87 Studio offers state-of-the-art equipment, experienced engineers, and a comfortable environment that encourages creativity. Their expertise and professional guidance will help you bring your vision to life.

Pre-production:

Consider engaging in pre-production before entering the studio. This involves refining your song arrangements, mapping out instrumentations, and making any necessary changes. This step will save valuable time during the recording process and allow you to focus on capturing the best performance.

Capture Authenticity:

Authenticity is key to connecting with your audience. While it’s essential to strive for technical excellence, don’t lose sight of the emotion and passion behind your music. Ten87 Studio’s experienced engineers can guide you in capturing the essence of your performance while maintaining a high level of production quality.

Microphone Placement:

Proper microphone placement can significantly impact the quality of your recording. Work closely with the engineers at Ten87 Studio to experiment with different microphone positions to find the perfect sound for each instrument and vocal track.

Experiment with Sound:

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sounds and effects during the recording process. Ten87 Studio offers a wide range of high-quality equipment and plugins to help you achieve the desired sonic palette. Collaborate with the engineers to explore various textures and tones that complement your music.

Take Breaks:

Recording sessions can be intense and mentally draining. Take regular breaks to rest, recharge, and maintain focus. This will ensure that you stay energised and perform at your best throughout the entire process.

Pay Attention to Detail:

Recording your first single is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail. Be patient and take the time to address any imperfections or inconsistencies. The engineers at Ten87 Studio have a keen ear and will assist you in achieving a polished and professional sound.

Communicate Openly:

Clear communication with the studio engineers is essential to achieve the desired results. Share your vision, concerns, and any specific requirements. Collaborate closely with the professional engineers at Ten87 Studio to ensure that your creative vision is translated into the final product.

Trust the Process:

Finally, trust the expertise of the professionals at Ten87 Studio. They have years of experience and a deep understanding of the recording process. Be open to their suggestions and advice, as they have your best interests and the success of your single in mind.

Conclusion:

Recording your first single at Ten87 Studio is an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these ten tips, you can ensure that your recording session runs smoothly and results in a high-quality single that reflects your artistic vision. From careful planning to effective communication and attention to detail, Ten87 Studio’s dedicated team of engineers will guide you through the process and help you create a memorable and impactful debut single. Embrace the journey and enjoy the experience as you embark on your musical career.

The Power of Community: Fostering Creativity and Collaboration at Ten87

Creating music is a deeply personal and creative endeavour, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. At Ten87 we understand the transformative power of community when recording music. Building a supportive network of fellow artists, engineers, and industry professionals can elevate your music-making experience to new heights. In this article, we explore the profound impact that community has on the creative process and how Ten87 Studios fosters an environment that nurtures collaboration, inspiration, and growth.

Shared Inspiration and Support:

One of the most significant benefits of a thriving community is the shared inspiration and support it provides. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals at Ten87 who share a passion for music can fuel your own creativity. Engaging in conversations, exchanging ideas, and attending events where you can connect with other artists can inspire fresh perspectives and encourage you to push the boundaries of your music.

Collaboration and Collective Creativity:

Collaboration is a powerful catalyst for creativity. Ten87 Studio encourages artists to collaborate with one another, offering a space where musicians can come together to write, record, and produce music collectively. Collaborative projects not only provide fresh ideas and perspectives but also allow for the fusion of different musical styles and influences, resulting in unique and innovative compositions.

Constructive Feedback and Growth:

Receiving constructive feedback is an invaluable asset for artists seeking to refine their craft. At Ten87, community members have the opportunity to give and receive feedback in a supportive and constructive environment. This feedback loop fosters growth, helping artists identify areas for improvement and encouraging them to experiment with new ideas and techniques.

Networking and Industry Connections:

Building a strong network of industry connections is vital for musicians looking to take their careers to the next level. Ten87 provides ample opportunities for artists to connect with industry professionals, including record label representatives, producers, and managers. This access to a wider network opens doors to collaborations, performance opportunities, and potential career advancements.

Emotional Support and Camaraderie:

The music industry can be challenging, and artists often face various obstacles and setbacks. Within a community like Ten87 Studio, artists find solace in the understanding and camaraderie of fellow musicians who are on a similar journey. The emotional support provided by a close-knit community can help artists navigate the ups and downs of the music industry and stay motivated to pursue their artistic visions.

Exposure and Promotion:

Being part of a vibrant music community can provide exposure and promotion opportunities for artists. Ten87 actively promotes the work of community members, both online and through various industry connections. This exposure increases the visibility of artists’ music, attracting new listeners and potential collaborators.

Conclusion:

The power of community within the context of music creation cannot be overstated. At Ten87, we recognize the transformative impact of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. By embracing community, artists gain access to shared inspiration, collaboration opportunities, skill-sharing, constructive feedback, networking connections, emotional support, and exposure. Together, we can harness the collective power of creativity, pushing the boundaries of music and realising artistic visions that may have otherwise remained untapped. Join the Ten87 community and experience the magic of community-driven music making.