WCA #505 with Ben Pike – Vinyl Mastering, Lathe Cut Records, Analog Studio Setup, and Navigating Chronic Illness

My guest today is Mastering & Record Cutting Engineer Ben Pike, who runs an analog-based mastering and record cutting studio in Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. Ben specializes in vinyl mastering and custom lathe cut records, working primarily with independent artists. He has collaborated with artists and groups such as ATA Records, Yaatri, The London Ambient Orchestra, Smith & The Honey Badgers, and King Zepha.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Leeds, West Yorkshire Roots
• Discovering Recording Technology
• DIY Recording Beginnings
• Home Studio Evolution
• Transition to Mastering
• Vinyl Mastering Journey
• Analog Studio Setup
• Custom Lathe Cut Records
• Challenges of Chronic Illness
• Building a Mastering Studio
• Navigating the Music Industry
• Supporting Independent Artists
• Small Batch Vinyl Production
• Innovative Vinyl Techniques
• Mastering and Cutting Synergy
• Restoring Vintage Gear

Matt’s Rant: The Art of Being Concise

Links and Show Notes

• Ben Pike’s Studio: Rare Tone Mastering
• Jeff Powell Companion Episode

Credits

• Announcer: Chuck Smith
• Guest: Ben Pike
• Host: Matt Boudreau
• Engineer: Matt Boudreau
• Producer: Matt Boudreau
• Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
• WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell