Music Production FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never worked with a producer before—how does the process work?
No worries at all. We start with a chat to understand your music and goals. From there, I guide you through each step—writing (if needed), production, mixing and mastering. You’ll be involved the whole way through. I keep things collaborative, honest and clear.
Do we jump straight into production or do we meet first?
- Hit the “Let’s Chat” button and we’ll have a conversation about your project.
- If it feels like a good fit, we’ll meet online or in person to go deeper.
- We’ll figure out where I fit in and talk agreements, roles, and splits.
- If we’re writing together, we’ll start workshopping ideas and composition.
- From there, we move straight into production.
What is your production workflow?
- You send me a rough demo or idea.
- I start building a rough production around it.
- You give feedback and we refine the direction.
- You record demo vocals so we can shape the track properly.
- Final vocals are recorded (at my studio or another one).
- I finish the full production, ready for mixing and mastering.
What is your mixing workflow?
- You send me the demo and I give feedback if needed.
- You send over all the stems for the track.
- I mix the song and send you a first version.
- You give feedback and request changes.
- I revise the mix until it’s right.
- Once approved, we move on to mastering.
What is your mastering workflow, if I have a mixed track?
- I listen to the final mix and assess any small improvements.
- If needed, I’ll suggest minor mix tweaks to optimise the master.
- Once the mix is locked, I master the track (EQ, compression, limiting etc.).
- You listen and give any notes or revision requests.
- I finalise the master and send the WAV and MP3 files.
What is your mastering workflow, if you've (Nic) already produced or mixed it?
- I listen to the final mix and assess any small improvements.
- Once the mix is locked, I master the track (EQ, compression, limiting etc.).
- You listen and give any notes or revision requests.
- I finalise the master and send the WAV and MP3 files.
What gear do you use to make and record music?
The main microphone for recording vocals I use is the Townsend Labs Sphere L22. It’s a modelling microphone and sounds absolutely fantastic. Since it can model the characteristics of famous microphones, it sounds good on every voice it records.
I monitor on Kali Audio IM8 speakers through my Universal Audio Apollo Twin.
For creating music I use a large variety of software instruments (synths, keys, sampled instruments) and real instruments such as hardware synths, guitars (electric, acoustic, bass) and percussion.
What DAW do you work in?
I use Studio One by Presonus. It’s not the most popular DAW (compared to software like Pro Tools, Logic and Ableton), but for me it was the perfect combination of a few different DAWs and allows me to move fast.
Can I work with you if I’m not based in Perth?
Absolutely. While I’m a Perth-based music producer, I regularly work with artists remotely around Australia and internationally. Demos, feedback, stems and revisions can all be shared online, and I make the process smooth wherever you’re based.
Do you help with songwriting or is it just production?
If you’re stuck on lyrics or melody, I’m happy to co-write or help shape ideas. Some artists come with full songs, others just a spark—we’ll build it together based on what you need.
How much does music production cost?
Every project is different, so pricing depends on the scope—whether we’re just mixing or building a track from scratch. I offer transparent quotes after a quick chat about your goals and budget.
How long does a song take to produce and finish?
It varies based on complexity and feedback rounds, but typically one to three weeks per track from start to final master. I keep things moving and communicate clearly throughout.
Can I bring my own vocals or stems to be mixed and mastered?
Yes—if you’ve already recorded your song, I can handle the mixing and mastering. Just send over your stems and I’ll take it from there, keeping you updated along the way.
Will I own the rights to the finished song?
Yes—unless we’re co-writing or sharing creative input in a deeper way, the rights are yours. Any split agreements are discussed openly upfront if collaboration goes beyond production.
Why work with a local Perth music producer instead of a big-name studio?
Working with someone local means more personalised attention and better communication. I treat every project with care, no matter the size. You get a sound that’s professionally polished without losing your identity as an artist.
What genres do you specialise in as a Perth music producer?
I’ve worked across a wide range of styles—from rock, indie, pop and alt-R&B to electronic and ambient. I focus more on the artist’s vision than sticking to one genre. If the song has a strong emotional centre, I’m interested.
Do I need to have a studio to work with you?
No studio? No problem. You can record vocals at my place, or we can work with home recordings or other studios you prefer. I’ll always help you get the best results. If we need a bigger space to record in (say to record drums) then we can hire one.
What should I prepare before starting a project?
A rough demo, lyric sheet, reference tracks, or even a voice note is a great start. If you’ve got a vibe in mind—even if it’s just a feeling—we’ll use that as a foundation to build from.
Can you help me get my music on Spotify or other streaming platforms?
Yes, I can guide you through the release process, including how to get your finished track distributed via platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and more. I’m also happy to recommend tools or services that simplify this step.
Do you offer revisions if I’m not 100% happy with the first version?
Definitely. This is a collaborative process. I include revisions with all production, mixing and mastering work so we can refine the track until it feels right. Your satisfaction is key to a great final product.
Can you create beats or instrumentals from scratch?
Yes—I can build full instrumentals around your vocal ideas, lyrics or just a general vibe you’re going for. Whether you want something stripped-back or layered and cinematic, I tailor the production to fit your sound.
Do you work with bands as well as solo artists?
Absolutely. I’ve worked with both solo artists and full bands, and the process is adapted to suit each. Whether it’s live instrumentation or electronic elements, I’ll help shape the sound cohesively. My studio space is relatively small and can’t do live drums, but I’ve got fantastic plugins that emulate live drums very professionally, or we can hire a larger space to record them.
What if I only need mixing or mastering—not full production?
That’s totally fine. You can come to me with a finished track and I’ll take care of just the mixing or mastering. Each service can be booked individually depending on where you’re at in the process.
How involved will I be in the creative process?
As involved as you want to be. Some artists like to co-produce and have input on every detail, others prefer to hand it off and review drafts. I work in a way that keeps you comfortable and confident throughout.
Can you help me develop my sound as an artist?
Yes—developing your sound is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. Whether you’re just starting or evolving creatively, I’ll help guide your direction, refine your ideas and build a sound that feels true to you.
Do you offer feedback or consultation before starting a full project?
Yes—I’m happy to review your demos, ideas or early recordings and give honest, constructive feedback. It’s a no-pressure way to explore working together and see if we’re a good fit creatively.
Can you help finish a song I’ve already started?
Definitely. If you’ve started something but feel stuck, I can step in to help with structure, production, mixing or whatever it needs. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh set of ears to bring it to life.
What if I’m not sure what sound I want yet?
That’s completely fine. Part of my job as a music producer is helping you discover and shape your sound. Through conversation, references and creative sessions, we’ll find a direction that feels right for you.
Do you help with artwork or branding for my release?
While my focus is on the music, I often collaborate with designers and can point you in the right direction for artwork, visuals or branding. I believe the full creative package matters—and I’m happy to help connect the dots.
Do you work with new or emerging artists?
Absolutely. I love working with artists at all stages. You don’t need a big following or studio experience—just a passion for making something real. I’ll help guide you through everything and make sure you feel supported creatively and technically.
How do I know when my song is finished?
That’s something we’ll decide together. You’ll have input at every stage, and once it feels emotionally and sonically right—and it holds up on repeat listens—it’s ready. I’ll guide the process, but you’ll always have the final say.