Episode 300 is a big one — and not because of the number.
In this episode, we break down one of the most misunderstood (and most skipped) steps in the entire record-making process: pre-production.
More...
You've hit a wall with your audio skills and can't seem to improve your sound, no matter what you do?
Figure out if you are a great fit for The Self-Recording Syndicate!
Our incredible coaching community and platform is the number one way for DIY producers around the world to get results that they'll be proud of forever.
- Grow your audience with songs that don't sound "demo-y".
- Be taken seriously by your peers, fans and other musicians.
- Make records that sound as good as your favorite songs in your playlist.

Here's how to get there:
Apply for unlimited, personal 1-on-1 mentoring (results guaranteed) - This is by far the fastest and best way to achieve your goals. Your gonna be working 1-on-1 with an experienced studio pro until your project is done. On your own songs, from your (home) studio and in your DAW of choice.
Most self-recording artists think pre-production is either:
- just “recording demos”, or
- something only big studios with big budgets need
Both are wrong.
In this episode, Benedikt and Manel explain:
- what pre-production actually is
- where it starts (and where it absolutely shouldn’t end)
- why skipping it makes recording harder, slower, and worse
- and how proper pre-production gives you better performances, better sounds, and easier mixes
This is Step 3 in our complete record-making process — right between writing and recording — and it’s the step that determines whether your recording session feels creative… or frustrating.
In this episode on pre-production, you’ll learn:
- What pre-production really means (and why there’s no single “correct” definition)
- The difference between writing, demoing, pre-production, and recording
- Why great producers separate creative flow from technical precision
- What should never be figured out during a recording session
- Why re-recording after demos is usually necessary (and when it’s not)
- Real-world examples where demo recordings actually made it onto final records
- How pre-production creates freedom — not restriction — during recording
- Why most home-recorded projects fail before microphones even matter
Who this episode is for:
- DIY musicians recording at home
- Bands preparing to record an EP or album
- Artists stuck re-recording songs over and over
- Anyone who feels their recordings never live up to the idea in their head
If you want your next recording session to feel focused, creative, and intentional, this episode is required listening.
🎧 Listen now and make your next recording session easier — before it even starts.
Ready To Transform Your Sound And Workflow?

Apply for professional mentoring and book a free clarity call with Benedikt to see if our programs are a great fit for you!
Recommended Free Downloads:
Standout Mixes – The DIY Musician’s Guide To Exciting Mixes That Connect
TSRB Free Facebook Community:
Mentioned On the Episode:
The Self-Recording Syndicate (Our Coaching Program):
Learn how to make pro quality records from your home studio: theselfrecordingband.com/coaching
Related Episodes:
296: The 10-Step-Process That Every Record Goes Through
298: The Music Production Process (Step 1): Build a Rock-Solid Foundation Before You Record
295: Why Your Records Don’t Sound the Way You Want (Real Talk for Self-Recording Artists)
Our Links:
Outback Recordings (Benedikt's Mixing Studio and personal website)
Manel's Website
TSRB Instagram
Benedikt's Instagram
Manel's Instagram
If you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: podcast@theselfrecordingband.com

