Reversing phase to get rid of noise

In theory, reversing phase on a noisy signal should get rid of unwanted noise, right? I have a guitar signal I’ve recorded using a small headphone AC powered amplifier. The sound is great except that it contains a “buzz” that is very noticeable during the silent parts. I copied the

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Are frequencies additive?

My question regards the additive or non-additive nature of frequencies. For example, if I have 2 frequencies at 500 Hz each at -6 dbs, and maintaining that same volume, if both frequencies were played simultaneously, would the result be -4 or -3 dbs at 500 Hz? Keeping that same scenario

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Parallel vs serial compression

I’m wondering if someone could explain what serial compression and parallel compression is, and the advantages of each and when one would be used vs the other. Serial compression is when the compressor is inserted in the signal chain and you use 100% of the processed/compressed signal. Parallel compression is

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Use of compressor on early records

I greatly appreciate this site. It is such a treat to be able to speak to experienced and knowledgeable mixers. Question: I know technology in the recording field has come far in the last 40 years, but compressors were around in the 60’s yet you do not hear the “punch”

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Pitch Correction

Tonight my wife and I were listening to a young country singer on television. My girls have her CD and so we, of course, have heard it many times. My wife made the comment that she (the singer) didn’t sound nearly as in tune as she does on her records.

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BBE Sonic Maximizer

Question: I have a 2 channel BBE Sonic Maximizer (the rack mounted version). Theoretically, it claims to “realign the frequency or frequencies” that get “bent out of shape” when being reproduced out of a speaker. When recording with a DAW, is there any reason to use it? Can it improve

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Fitting frequencies together

This is my first post on this forum. Somehow I lost my original post after I previewed it. I read the article “3D and the Art of Mixing,” I think it was called, where it discussed fitting frequencies together to keep mixes from getting messy, heavy, conflicting, etc…. My question:

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Audio Interface/Sound Card Question

Firstly, thank you very much for this form.  It is a tremendous help. My question is about sound cards.  First, I’d like to know if the current sound card I have is good enough for voiceover work.  Are there any tests I can do or specs I can check?  I

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Condenser mic?

I’m currently in audio production school, but I’m a musician at heart and that’s what led me to recording school. I’d really love to purchase my first condenser mic this summer, but I need something specific. I’m looking for a condenser mic that is around $500 (or less) and picks

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Pre-Amp Question

I have a Presonus Firepod. I quite like it. My silly question is: is another preamp necessary or are the preamps on the Firepod enough? I bought an ART MP preamp. The problem is that it is REALLY noisy. Lots of hiss. I went back to just using the Firepod

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