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Posted by: tonymiro Dec 5 2011, 11:45 AM

Here's some suggestipns for anyone interested in recording/mixing/mastering who wants some books for XMas (or indeed any time in the year).

Mastering Audio: the art and the science. Bob Katz.
This is usually quoted as the book on mastring. It's a bit dated and some of the material is Bob's opinion rather than common practice. Nonetheless it's a must read for anyone who is interested in mastering.

Mixing secrets for the small studio. Mike Senior.
An intermediate level book on mixing. What I like about Mike's book is that he includes a summary at the end of each chapter and also suggests some things to try and practice. The book also includes real world quotes and examples from a number of pro mixers.

Mixing with your mind - Mike Stavrou
Intermediate/advanced. A different perspective on how to mix written by a great engineer and nice guy (and yes I do know him). It's about really thinking about what you want to achieve for a mix and how you need to listen critically with your ears and how you then achieve that.

The mixing engineer's handbook. Bobby Owsinski
Intermediate. Nice and quite logical walkthrough of the mixing process from start to finish.

Mixing audio: concepts, practices and tools. Roey Izhaki.
Intermediate/advanced. Another nice and quite logical start to finish;

Basic mixing - Paul White
Beginner. Quite a good basic book aimed at those with little or no experience in a studio.

The complete Beatles recording sessions. Mark Lewisohn.
Contains information and details on the recprding of every track the Beatles recorded at Abbey Road. There are some great anecdotes. Sadly I don't think this one is still in print.

Behind the Glass (volumes 1 and 2)- Howard Massey.
A series of interviews with pro producers and mixing engineers. There are some interesting insights and opinions.

Posted by: Nihilist1 Dec 5 2011, 11:55 AM

This is actually a really cool concept. I think it would be an awesome idea for all the instructors to do this as well. To list books that they think are helpful, and or insightful. Great Concept Tonymiro!

The book by Mark Lewisohn seems really interesting. I am most curious about the ending of A Day In The Life. That always gives me the creeps(and I listen to black metal most of the time!)

Posted by: tonymiro Dec 5 2011, 12:15 PM

Not sure if it's the bit you're interested in but according to the book at the end of the track it's 'John, Paul, Ringo and Mal Evans sharing three pianos and simultaneously hitting E minor'. Took several takes to get all four to hit the chord at precisely the same time btw. And of course the track features a lot of echo and distortion.

I think Lewishon's book is out of print but you might be able to get a used copy. It's also a great 'coffee table' book as it reproduces lots of photos and stuff from the sessions.

Posted by: Nihilist1 Dec 5 2011, 12:20 PM

Thanks! I will see if I can find a copy of it. My grandfather is a die hard Beatles fan, maybe it is something he will enjoy poring over as well.

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Dec 5 2011, 04:09 PM

Awesome!! Thanks a lot for this thread Tony!