Richard Chycki (Rush, Aerosmith, Dream Theater)

Multi-platinum mixer, engineer, and producer Richard Chycki is best known for his work with icons Rush, Aerosmith, Skillet, Dream Theater, Pink, Seal, and Mick Jagger. He is also highly regarded for his groundbreaking immersive work in multichannel audio for Rush, Evanescence, The Tragically Hip, and others, as well as contributing to a number of movie soundtracks and doing surround mixes for P. Diddy and Sean Paul.

Tell us about your current studio setup.

I don't use an analog desk and I don't have a specific controller right now. I’m shopping right now if you will.

For monitors, I use Genelec 8351A's and 8340's for Atmos and Sony 360 RA mixing. I still have 3 ancient pairs of KRK E8's that I reference for stereo as well as a pair of clouds and active Cubes.

I use a variety of plugins from Brainworx, Universal Audio, Waves, McDSP, Sonnox, IK, SSL, FabFilter, and Nugen ... application-dependent, so it's a moving target.

How do you typically approach a mix?

After reviewing the track, I often set up drums first and then rough-in other instruments to get a sonic structure together. I take a top-down approach to mixes in many cases. Sometimes, I will suggest a breakdown or pre-chorus stops that require a fair bit of mutes and edits or use buss-assigned plugins to add more global effects for texture changes.

What advice do you have for aspiring mixers and producers looking to get their big break in the industry?

Keep learning different ways to complete your mix. I still am. And continue to hone your critical listening skills.