When the Greater Philadelphia Film Office needs a cutting-edge composer, they call on Joe Moser. And when Joe Moser needs a world-class studio, he calls on Forge Recording.

To promote the Film Office, Joe created a 1940s-style film reel, complete with big band sound. Aided by engineers Stephan Wojtecki, Melissa Pastras and our own Mark McNutt, the team turned six musicians into a full orchestra. Says Moser, "The studios at Forge were perfect for this project. We loaded our video into ProTools and off we went. They even have vintage microphones for that big band sound. It was awesome!"

Joe Moser can be reached at joemoser@forgerecording.com or by calling Forge Recording at 215.885.7000.

As far as we know, Forge Recording is the only duplicator in the area to offer same day service on fully packaged CD orders.

You'd be amazed how often we receive frantic calls. "The release party is Saturday and the master isn't finished. Can you help us?"

We sure can!

That's why we developed same day service on 100 piece full market-ready CD orders. Get us your CD master, graphics files and replication rights form by 9am, and we'll have your full-color duplicated CDs, color inserts and tray cards packaged, shrinkwrapped and ready for pickup or shipping by 5pm the same day. Call 215.885.7000 for details.

Same day duplication. From the professionals at Forge Recording.

Home Studio Help: Tracking Drums

At Forge Recording we want you to sound your best, whether recording in our studio or in yours.

When tracking drums in a home studio, consider the following: 1) acoustics 2) drum kit 3) microphones and 4) outboard preamps

Acoustics. If recording in a small space, use close micing techniques in combination with reverb plugins. For a larger space add a pair of condenser mics in the room for ambience.

Drum Kit. Check the drums, drum heads and cymbals for wear and replace or repair as necessary. Make sure the drums are tuned properly.

Microphones. Place small diaphragm dynamic mics above the toms and above and below the snare. Place a large diaphragm dynamic mic near or inside the kick drum. Place a pair of cardioid condenser mics above the drum kit. Experiment with placement for desired effect.

Outboard Preamps. Clean-sounding preamps will let the snare's crispness shine through. Tube preamps can add darkness and heft to a kick drum.

Call Forge Recording's consultants to save time and money when planning a home studio.

How To Obtain Mechanical Licenses

You must obtain mechanical licenses prior to duplication if you are not the copyright owner of the music on your recording. Fortunately many licenses can be purchased online. Here's how.

With the recent passing of our audiocassette business, we now have more than 2,000 square feet of under-utilized space at the Forge Recording headquarters in Oreland, PA.

What do you think about converting the space into rehearsal rooms or production suites (or something else) to be leased by the day, week or month? Send us your helpful ideas and receive a Forge Recording T-shirt (while supplies last).

Talkback and share your thoughts by emailing news@forgerecording.com or calling 215.885.7000. We'd love to hear from you.