Audio Helm
Recording Studio & Mastering
Welcome to Audio Helm Studio! We provide audio recording, mixing, and mastering services in Stanley, North Carolina (USA), located 16 miles Northwest of
center city Charlotte, NC. We cater to any/all musical genres,
and are committed to making your audio sound as professional, powerful, and captivating as possible.
In addition to recording, mixing, and mastering, we offer a variety of other services including: drum quantizing, guitar and bass reamping,
drum programming, live sound engineering/reinforcement, session musicians & more.
GET IN TOUCH:
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CLIENTS
Ancestral Blood
Ancestral Blood - "Sky Fortress of Wizardry"
— Mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Cesspool of Vermin
Cesspool of Vermin - "Homicidal Sexuality"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Coathanger Abortion
Coathanger Abortion - "Corpsewood"
— Mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
CVLL
CVLL - "The Astral Body"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Dirt
Dirt - "Speak Your Own Mind"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
In-Conquered
In-Conquered - "The Pinnacle of Inconsolable Grief"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Myth of the Crow
Myth of the Crow - "Courage Under Fire"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Night Attack
Night Attack - "Ride the Whirlwinds"
— Mixed and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Valar Morghulis
Valar Morghulis - "Predatory Impulse"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
Vesterian
Vesterian - "Rebirth of Ancient Empires"
— Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Audio Helm Studio.
SERVICES
RECORDING & MIXING
RECORDING
Audio Helm Studio offers on-site recording and music production services at our Stanley, NC based location. We will capture your musical and vocal performance(s) with meticulous precision, in order to achieve optimum volume levels, dynamic range, and adequate headroom. We utilize a wide variety of microphones and preamps, to best match the source(s) being recorded. Our engineers implement expert miking techniques, to achieve optimal tonal definition, punch, clarity, while maintaining proper phase correlation between tracks.MIXING
Mixing is the process of combining pre-recorded audio tracks into one stereo track, so that the mix
will be ready to undergo final mastering. In addition to carefully adjusting the volume of each individual track, we utilize
out-board gear and software/plug-ins (compressors/limiters, high-pass/low-pass filters, equalizers, etc.) to finely sculpt each track,
ensuring all tracks are audible, well-balanced, properly panned, and sit perfectly within the overall mix.
LOCATION RECORDING
We offer location recording services, in which we'll bring our equipment (recording gear, microphones, stands, cabling, etc.) to your location. (An extra fee may be charged
to help cover our travel expenses, relative to the distance from the studio.)
MASTERING
MASTERING
Mastering is the process of applying further enhancements to an audio mixdown, and is the crucial last step in the audio post-production process. Our goal is to ensure your mixes sound great when played through any type of sound system (stereo speakers, headphones, mobile phones, etc.). Utilizing professional mastering equipment and utilities (hardware, software/plug-ins, and metering) final audio levels will be optimized for distribution among various playback sources (streaming, CD, vinyl, cassette, etc.)Mastering services include:
- • Audio level adjustment (for commercial loudness), equalization, stereo imaging, aural excitement
- • Dynamics processing (compression, limiting, expanding), maximizing, normalization
- • Track panning, fades (envelopes & crossfades), automation
- • Phase correction, hum/hiss removal, noise/click/pop removal
- • Track sequencing & spacing, track metadata (artist name, album title, song title, track number, year)
Once completed, you will receive the fully mastered digital audio files in .wav (16/24 bit) (44.1/48 kHz) and/or .mp3 (320 kbps). Mastered audio files can be delivered via e-mail, FTP,
or saved to customer supplied media such as a USB Flash (Thumb) Drive.
*DDP (Disc Description Protocal) image files and discs are available for a fee upon request. See our pricing guide for more information.
COMMERCIAL RECORDING, VOICE OVERS, & AUDIO POST-PRODUCTION
COMMERCIAL RECORDING , VOICE OVERS & AUDIO POST-PRODUCTION
Audio Helm Studio offers commercial recording services covering a wide range of applications for professional TV and film production, including:
- • Scoring, background music, and sound effects for film and movie productions
- • Voice overs and musical composition for TV commercials, radio ads, and jingles
- • Voice-to-Picture ADR (Automated Dialog Replacement)
- • Narration for podcasts, audio books, educational and tutorial videos
We use select microphones and preamps when recording voice over work, which are designed to deliver exceptional detail and articulation. We also use high-end
noise-free broadcast-grade cabling, to ensure professional sound quality without artifacts, which can be caused by radio frequency interference (RFI), electromagnetic interference (EMI), etc.
REAMPING, AMP SIMS, & IR's (IMPULSE RESPONSES)
GUITAR & BASS REAMPING
Reamping is the process of recording a direct unprocessed guitar (or bass) signal and then re-routing the track through an amplifier and speaker cabinet to be re-recorded using one or more microphones. A Reamp Box is used to convert the audio signal impedence from low (balanced, line level) to high (unbalanced, instrument level), so that the amp will respond to the (pre-recorded, unprocessed) signal the same way it responds to an instrument that is plugged into the amp. The main benefit of this recording technique is that instead of being stuck with a particular guitar tone, the sound can be tweaked until the desired tonality is achieved. Different amp heads, cabinets, and effects can be used to conjure up a plethora of different sounds.AMP SIMS & IR's (IMPULSE RESPONSES)
An amp simulator (also known as an amp sim) is a plugin that emulates the sound of a guitar amp. These are used in conjuction with an IR (Impulse Response) loader, which simulates the tone of a speaker cabinet. We host an arsenal of VST amp sims and IR's, allowing us to craft the perfect guitar/bass tone (from clean to high gain distortion).DRUM QUANTIZING & DRUM PROGRAMMING (SEQUENCING & BEAT PRODUCTION)
DRUM QUANTIZING
Drum Quantization is an editing process which aligns pre-recorded drum tracks to a tempo grid, so that the timing of the performance sounds tighter and more precise.
We use professional industry standard software for quantizing, and in contrast to "programmed" drums, the result is much more realistic and natural sounding.
DRUM PROGRAMMING (SEQUENCING & BEAT PRODUCTION)
We have a wide selection of professional drum sound samples (kicks, snares,
toms, cymbals, etc.) and sequencing software to craft the right sounding drums for your project. Our engineers are well-versed in
arranging drum beats of varying musical styles, including metal (which often features blast beats and double-bass drumming),
to the more technical or progressive styles, which incorporate intricate and complex time signatures.
SOUND EFFECTS & MIDI
SOUND EFFECTS & MIDI
We offer a large selection of professional MIDI sounds and effects to choose from.
Our MIDI sound hardware includes the Roland Fantom FA-07 and the Roland XV-5050, of which are capable of producing sounds for virtually any genre of music.
Add orchestral sounds such as strings, horn sections, timpanis, bells, or lush choirs. Or, experiment with different pads and electronic sounds.
We also host a library of cinematic sound effects, including nature sounds (thunderstorms, wind, waves crashing, etc.), battle and war sounds (medieval,
tanks, explosions, air raid sirens, etc.), animal sounds (howling wolves, crows, horses galloping, etc.), and other various sounds (doors creaking, gates opening/closing, chains
dragging, etc.).
LIVE SOUND ENGINEERING & REINFORCEMENT
LIVE SOUND ENGINEERING
If you are a performing artist or band in need of a live sound engineer, get in touch to inquire about how we can help with engineering your concert(s). Our live sound engineer(s) will ensure your music is properly mixed and balanced, utilizing proper microphone set-up/placement, equalization, compression, effects, plus stage monitor volume adjustment.LIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT
We offer PA system rentals, which can be used for events, concerts, gatherings, house shows, parties, etc.
PA Rental includes:
- • On-site Sound Engineer
- • Yamaha EMX 660 (600-Watt Powered Mixer)
- • 2 Community CSX3500 speakers (15", 150-Watts Continuous/375-Watts Program)
- • Various mics and cables (depending on need)
SESSION MUSICIANS
Need a session musician for your recording or live gig? We have session musicians available to assist with performing drums/percussion, guitar, bass,
keyboards, vocals, etc.
Get in touch to inquire about our session musician rates and availability.
Mic Locker:
- • AKG P220 (Condensor)
- • Audix i5 (Dynamic)
- • Audix D2 (3) (Dynamic)
- • Audix D4 (2) (Dynamic)
- • Audix D6 (Dynamic)
- • Oktava MC 012-01 (x2) (Condensor)
- • Shure SM57 (Dynamic)
- • Shure SM58 (x2) (Dynamic)
- • Shure SM81 (Condensor)
- • Sterling Audio ST170 (x2) (Ribbon)
Preamps & DI:
- • Focusrite ISA One (Tube Preamp)
- • PreSonus BlueTube (Stereo Tube Preamp)
- • Radial Engineering ProRMP (Reamp Box)
- • M-Audio AudioBuddy (Dual Mic Preamp/Direct Box)
- • Tech 21 SansAmp (Bass Driver DI)
Headphones & Distribution Amps:
- • Behringer HA6000 (Distribution Amp)
- • Behringer HPS3000 (5)
- • Tascam TH-02
MIDI Controllers:
- • M-Audio Keystudio
Power Amps (PA) & Speakers:
- • Yamaha EMX 660
- • Community CSX 3500 (2)
Recording Interfaces:
Studio Monitors:
- • Yamaha HS8 (2)
- • Yamaha HS8S (Subwoofer)
Workstations:
- • Rok Box MC X
Outboard Gear & Effects:
- • Alesis 3630 (Compressor/Limiter/Gate)
- • Alesis M-EQ 230 (Dual 30-Band Stereo Equalizer)
- • Boss Metal Zone MT-2 (Distortion Pedal)
- • Korg AX1500G (Guitar Multi-Effects Processor)
- • Line 6 Helix (Guitar/Bass Multi-Effects Processor)
- • Maxon OD808 Overdrive (Overdrive Pedal)
- • Maxon OD808X Overdrive Extreme (Overdrive Pedal)
- • Roland XV-5050 (Midi Sound Module)
Software and Plugins:
- • Abbey Road TG Mastering
- • Avalon VT-747SP
- • AMEK 9909 Console
- • AMEK EQ 250
- • Black Box Analog Design HG-2MS
- • Cubase 10.5 Professional (DAW)
- • iZotope Ozone 8 Advanced (Mastering)
- • iZotope Nectar 3
- • KClip 3
- • Lindell 80 Channel Strip
- • Melodyne
- • Radix Auto-Align
- • Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor
- • Soothe2
- • SSL G-Channel Strip
- • True Iron
- • Valhalla Vintage Reverb
- + many more
Guitar Amplifiers:
- • Mesa Boogie Royal Atlantic RA-100 (100 Watts, Tube)
- • Laney GH 120 (120 Watts, Solid State)
- • Marshall MV15CD (45 Watts, Solid State)
Guitar Cabinets:
- • Hughes & Kettner SC 412 A
- • Peavey 412MS
INSTRUMENTS:
Guitars & Bass:
- • B.C. Rich Warlock Plus (Electric Guitar)
- • B.C. Rich Warlock - Bronze Series (Electric Guitar)
- • B.C. Rich Warlock - N.J. Series (Bass Guitar)
- • Jackson Kelly JS30KE (Electric Guitar)
- • Randy Jackson Diamond Edition (Acoustic/Electric Guitar)
- • Rogue RA090T-BK (Acoustic Guitar)
- • Washburn XB-100 (Bass Guitar)
Keyboards:
- • Roland Fantom FA-07
- • Yamaha PSR-225
Drums & Percussion:
- • 10" Quinto & 11" Conga (Percussion)
- • CB Percussion 7/8 Bongo Set (Percussion)
- • Stagg CB305BK Cowbell (Percussion)
RATES
Live Sound Engineering & Reinforcement
STAFF
Mike Clevenger
Roles:
- • Recording/Mastering Engineer
- • Live Sound Engineer
- • Session Musician: Guitar, Bass, Keyboards, & Drum Programming (Studio)
Mitch Moore
Roles:
- • Assistant Recording/Mastering Engineer
- • Session Musician: Drums (Studio and Live)
CONTACT
GET IN TOUCH:
For studio booking, pricing quotes, and information, fill out the form below and we will contact you at our earliest convenience.
Include your name, e-mail, phone number, and a description of what you are seeking to accomplish regarding your musical project.