Splice\u2019s Dylan Wood<\/a> and John Kunkel<\/a> led the session, offering a masterclass in how creativity, technical skill, and smart workflows come together in today\u2019s music industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the heart of the discussion was one key takeaway: Authenticity and efficiency don\u2019t compete. Rather, they complement each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n *USC has no affiliation with Splice and is not endorsing any Splice services or products.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dylan, a sound designer and engineer, kicked off the session by sharing his journey in sample creation. He emphasized that whether you’re working with vintage gear or a simple mic setup, the key to a great sound lies in intention. His process for creating a popular vintage drum pack wasn’t just about expensive equipment; it was about meticulous mic placement, a deep knowledge of recording history, and a disciplined process of culling until only the most unique and usable sounds remained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “When we’re making sample packs, the biggest thing is intentionality,” he says. “I want my sounds to be the absolute best they can be, with no filler at all.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n This focus on authenticity is a powerful lesson for every creator. The goal isn\u2019t to emulate a sound but to find and refine your own. As Dylan put it, a musician’s most valuable tool isn’t their gear; it’s their ear, and the discipline to create sounds with purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFinding your sound: An intentional approach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nMastering your workflow: A professional’s toolkit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n