Blog

WordPress To BlogEngine.Net – 5 Possible Stages

Originally posted on February 9, 2025 @ 5:12 pm

It helps portray pictorial migration from WordPress to BlogEngine

Introduction

Migrating from WordPress to BlogEngine.NET involves transferring website content from the WordPress CMS which is PHP and MySQL-based to BlogEngine.NET which runs on ASP.NET and SQL Server/XML storage.

WordPress

It is a platform that creates, manage, help to suggest hosting services and allow its platform users to publish web-page(s) with the use of Internet Service Providers.

WordPress is the most popular website building platform that requires no programming (coding) skills as it is designed with pre-loaded templates which is editable/adjustable to the taste you so desire it.

Although, WordPress as a content management system is of great value to anyone with coding or and graphics design skill.

The Uniqueness of WordPress

Amongst other website building platforms, WordPress is likely to be preferred to other platforms with some of the reasons as listed below;

  1. It has a responsive design layout
  2. It is highly flexible with free and open source
  3. It is great pick for beginner of website designers

WordPress has two categories of website namely;

  1. wordpress.org; is a self-hosted web-page where you personally engage the services of a hosting provider like namecheap.com, godaddy.com etc.
  2. wordpress.com – Already hosted site which is managed by WordPress

BlogEngine.NET

This is an ASP.NET based platform that helps to create and manage blogs that mainly operates on Microsoft .NET framework.

BlogEngine.NET is not user friendly to developers of blogs but requires an adequate knowledge in .NET

However, BlogEngine.NET has built-in theme with its appearance modification

BlogEngine.NET has its unique features that is desired by developers and thereby make it their choice for building a website blog

  1. Comes with built-in SEO tools to optimize blog visibility
  2. The resources used from other website building platform is higher than BlogEngine.NET, thus it is preferred.
  3. Some developers like to engage the ASP.NET based solution
  4. It is free and open source web blog building platform

2 Core Relationship of WordPress and BlogEngine.Net Platforms

  1. Window Server – WordPress can be installed using PHP Manager but BlogEngine.NET runs natively.

The best option for the dual hosting is a Windows Server with IIS and PHP support.

  1. Database – BlogEngine.NET uses XML or SQL Server while WordPress uses MySQL server with no default MySQL support

This did not stop their relationship as they can share the same SQL server database with different table prefixes to prevent conflicts in their usage.

5 Stages of Migrating WordPress Contents into BlogEngine.NET?

Simply say that, transition Between BlogEngine.NET and WordPress is without downtime –

furthermore, a strategic migration steps is enforced to ensure the website visitors do not experience any form of interruptions, i.e. keeping both webpages up and running

1 – Set Up BlogEngine.NET on a subdomain and configure IIS and SQL server;

Why? It is useful for testing environments, blogs, or separate site sections if the need arises.

How do you set up a sub-domain?

  1. Log in to your hosting control panel
  2. Create the subdomain (enter the subdomain name) and choose the main domain
  3. Install or upload a website to the subdomain
  4. Configure SSL (HTTPS) for the Subdomain
  5. Test the created subdomain
2 – Backup and Export Content from WordPress with the following steps
  1. Login to your WordPress Admin Dashboard.
  2. Go to Tools > Export.
  3. Select All Content (includes posts, pages, comments, categories, and tags).
  4. Click Download Export File (this creates an XML file).

When successfully exported, convert the WordPress XML file to BlogEngine.NET format, because BlogEngine.NET do not support direct WordPress import.

BlogEngine.NET format include;

  1. BlogML (.xml)
  2. SQL Database (.bak/.sql)
  3. XML file storage 
3 – Import Data to BlogEngine.NET
  1. Login to BlogEngine.NET Admin Panel.
  2. Go to Settings > Import
  3. But if BlogEngine.NET does not have a direct import tool, manually copy-paste posts into the Admin Panel under New Post.
4 – Transfer Images and Media
  1. WordPress stores images separately in the wp-content/uploads
  2. Manually download these images and upload them to BlogEngine.NET media storage.
  3. Update image URLs in BlogEngine.NET.
5 – Redirect Old URLs

If you are moving from WordPress to BlogEngine.NET but wish to keep the same domain, you can use 301 redirects in your hosting settings to avoid broken links.

6 – Test Your Blog
  1. Review imported posts for formatting errors.
  2. Test internal links to ensure they are working.
  3. Verify the configuration of the SEO settings.

How to Undo the Migration of BlogEngine.NET into WordPress?

Step 1 – Set Up WordPress on a Staging Environment
  • Install WordPress on a temporary domain or subdomain and configure PHP, MySQL, and WordPress plugins.

Step 2 – Export Content from BlogEngine.NET

Locate Settings in Dashboard → Export Blog.

Export all posts, pages, and comments as an XML file and if using an SQL Server database, you may need to manually export using SQL queries.

Step 3 – Import Content (Exported File) into WordPress Platform

Options to Engage;

  1. Use a plugin like WordPress Importer to import the XML file.
  2. After exporting SQL data, use WP All Import or manually migrate the tables.
  3. Verify  and import all posts, pages, and comments.
Step 4 – Redirect Old URLs to WordPress URLs

BlogEngine.NET uses different URL structures than WordPress. It is important you use 301 redirects in web.config (for IIS) or .htaccess (if migrating to Apache).

Step 5 – Final Testing & Domain Switch
  • Test the new WordPress site for functionality, broken links, and design issues.
  • Once verified, update the DNS settings to point your main domain to the new WordPress site.
  • Keep the old BlogEngine.NET site live in a backup state for a short period (just in case).

Remember to create a backup system that will keep the old site up and running in case of eventualities.

Suspended Ceiling: 8 Key Challenges and Solutions in 2025

Originally posted on February 3, 2025 @ 12:53 pm

Ceiling Overview

Ceiling can be made of wood, plaster, stone, concrete and metal which form the overhead structure that encloses a space.

Its purpose can be decorative or and functional that provides insulation, protection, sound control and aesthetic appeal.

As at today, we have seen and used both the traditional ceilings and suspended ceilings.

The origin of the traditional ceiling

The pace at which ceiling was created has its root in architecture for cultural advancement which later ride on the influence of technology.

  1. The early ceilings were natural & wooden, stone & bricks, ornate
  2. The modern ceilings were plaster & stucco, vaulted & coffered, tin & pressed metal

The usage of the Ceilings before Suspended Ceiling

The traditional ceilings were multi-purpose driven. Let’s see some of their purposes and try to relate with what purpose the now suspended ceilings provides.

One of its main purpose is for decorative designs needed in homes, offices, religious buildings and maybe event halls.

Again, the Stone ceilings were tick thereby help to regulate indoor temperatures.

Furthermore, the reinforcement of a building was possible with a protective barrier.

While domes and vaults were specifically designed to amplify sound in large spaces, that is reducing echoes from the sound productions.

Their limitations

Despite the fantastic functions of the traditional ceilings, their limitations that have also created lots of concerns

  1. It was almost impossible to access electrical wires or structural element for repairs, it requires breaking the ceiling.
  2. The solid nature of the ceiling reflected noise that leads to echoing issues
  3. Modification of these categories of ceiling were not feasible
  4. They have less design flexibility that restricted architectural creativeness.

From the above, you can note that it will be costlier retaining the traditional (early and modern) ceilings. Thus, it is now necessary to allow them fade away.

The Origin of Suspended Ceiling

A suspended ceiling is usually installed below the main structural ceiling.

It consists of a lightweight grid framework that holds ceiling tiles or panels made from materials such as metal or PVC, mineral fiber.

The first true suspended ceiling system was introduced, designed to conceal pipes, wiring, and ductwork while improving acoustics by Donald Brown’s Patent in 1919.

While between 1950s-1960s the system evolved with lightweight acoustic tiles and metal grids, becoming popular.

And Today, the finest part of suspended ceilings is that it incorporates fire-resistant, soundproof, and eco-friendly materials, along with integrated lighting and HVAC systems.

The beauty it can create for your space –  

Traditional ceilings samples

Some Ceilings in the early stage of ceiling

Suspended Ceiling Samples

The beauty is reflected from its desings

Reasons why you should be desiring Suspended Ceiling

There are several reasons why you might desire a suspended ceiling,

  1. It enhances the overlook of a space and also provides a uniform and professional appearance (creative and modern designs).
  2. It’s easy access for maintenance or repairs is unbeatable with assurance of not damaging the ceiling tiles.
  3. It has become ideal for any structural building by reducing noise levels and absorbing sound
  4. Energy efficiency is possible by allowing integrated LED lighting systems.
  5. The spread of fire can be minimized when there is fire outbreak, because it is fire resistant.
  6. Modification or replacement of ceiling panel and tiles is guaranteed with reduced maintenance cost.
  7. Invention of suspended ceilings provided modern solutions such as better acoustics.
  8. Suspended ceiling reduces glare and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
  1. It can be adjusted and re-adjusted to different ceiling heights for a more spacious look as desired.

Some structural areas you can install suspended ceilings and what to expect.

Suspended ceilings are widely used in various settings not limited to the following listed below;

Commercial (offices, malls, hotels) – For aesthetics, acoustics, and hiding infrastructure.

Institutions (Educational, Religious) – Helps with sound absorption and lighting integration.

Healthcare (hospitals, clinics) – Provides easy access to essential utilities and enhances hygiene.

Industrial– Helps with fire safety and insulation.

Residential– Used in basements, kitchens, or living areas for decoration and insulation.

Let’s Consider some of the challenges associated with Suspended Ceiling

First, the regular materials used in the installation of suspended ceiling are;

  1. Mineral fiber (for sound absorption)
  2. Metal (for durability and aesthetics)
  3. PVC or plastic (for moisture resistance)
  4. Gypsum (for fire resistance)

 The Basic steps of how suspended ceiling is installed

  1. Grid Framework Installation – A metal grid system is created and suspended from the original ceiling using wires.
  2. Panel Placement – Ceiling tiles or panels are placed within the grid framework.
  3. Additional Fixtures – Lighting, ventilation, and other utilities are integrated into the system.

As modern suspended ceilings became popular in the 20th century based on its unique nature, particularly in commercial and office buildings, the following challenges were discovered in the process of installing, its usage and maintenance of the ceiling tiles.

  1. A suspended Ceiling needs at least 3 – 6 inches of clearance below the initial ceiling. If the original ceiling already low, adding a drop ceiling may make the space feel cramped or less open.
  2. fire suppression systems that is not well integrated may be obstructing safety features
  3. When the existing ceiling structure is not supporting the suspended ceiling grids and panels, there is going to be limitation that can be dangerous
  4. The risk of having heavy materials on the suspended ceiling which has load bearing limit
  5. Violation of building codes and ventilation for maintenance, suspended ceiling materials not meeting safety regulations (fire hazards, structural failures, health concerns, and legal liabilities)
  6. Maintenance of conceal utilities like wiring, pipes or other infrastructure can be difficult when there is no adequate space for movement between the initial ceiling roof and suspended ceiling.
  7. With suspended ceiling in a smaller space, the visual impact of a lowered ceiling will make the room more constrained although not same with larger space.
  8. Noise transmission issue that passes through suspended ceiling because of lack of sound insulation, plenum, Flanking Paths, hard surface ceiling tiles etc.

Solutions to the above challenges

 Please note that the suggestion solutions are itemized according to the numbering on the challenges.

  1. Rectify the height of the hall – A shallow drop ceiling, semi exposed grid system can adjust the height of the suspended ceiling grid which will help to create a more open feel, especially in smaller spaces.
  2. Use fire resistance ceiling tiles were applicable e.g. Laminated Gypsum, Mineral fiber, metal acoustic panels, etc. These are fire-rated, non-toxic and a moisture resistant ceiling material
  3. Choose drop-out panels or modular systems for easy access
  4. Choose a heavy-duty grid system designed to support additional load and follow proper installation guidelines to prevent collapse and structural issues
  5. Ensure ceiling tiles meet ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), UL (Underwriters Laboratories), and local building codes
  6. Maintenance; lighting fixtures, air vents, sprinklers, and wiring should be considered
  7. Lightning placement and choose removable tiles. The use of decorative ceiling tiles, metal grids, or custom panels to enhance visual appeal.
  8. Soundproofing – Amongst others, choose high Noise Reduction Coefficient and tight-fitting tiles to absorb sound and reduce echo. It will prevent sound leakage.

You can consider getting more detail about a previously published article on the lasting benefits of installing suspended ceiling for sound production.

Choosing the Right Database Technology

Originally posted on January 30, 2025 @ 1:12 pm

Choosing the right database technology could at best put that business on the path of growth or adversely return the business to the era of manual operations.

SQL or NoSQL vs. Hybrid

This is simply because a Database play a crucial role in modern applications in the manner data are created, stored, updated, deleted.

Why is Database Necessary?

As mentioned above, database enable businesses store, organize, and manage structured or unstructured data efficiently.

Structured Data: This entail when data/information is entered in an arranged format such as rows, columns within any relational database

Unstructured Data: It is a non-fixed data arrangement i.e. a non-relational database with difficulty to search for information using traditional SQL queries.

More so, here are some of the necessity of having a database for your business but not limited to –

  1. Management of Data – Not only does it store data but can retrieve and manipulate large amount of data systematically;
  2. Data Integrity – Encryption, authentication is possible and limited access control;
  3. Informed Decision – Generate report and analyze trends for better decision making;
  4. Competitive advantage – Database allow businesses to analyze market trends, customer behaviour, competitor strategies and provide a competitive edge; and
  5. Business continuity – With database, backup and recovery systems prevent data loss when there is system crash or failure.

Understanding the Key features of SQL Concept and How it can Relate to Business Need.

Structured Query Language (SQL) – This database is relational in nature. It ensures compliance with data consistency through Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation and Durability (ACID).

Examples of SQL Database; MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle

Some Features of SQL Database are as follow;

1.     Scale; Scales vertically (adding more power to a single server). Suitable for applications with moderate to high data consistency needs.

2.     Data Consistency and Availability; Follows ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) principles, ensuring data integrity. Best for banking, financial transactions, and sensitive applications.

3.     Flexibility; Uses structured query language (SQL) for complex queries and joins. Better when relationships among data are strong.

4.     Performance; Efficient for complex joins, aggregations, and structured data queries.

Challenges of SQL Database

  1. SQL database scale vertically by adding more CPU, RAM to a single server rather than horizontally that add more servers and thereby limit growth;
  2. It experiences bottleneck performances as a result of high traffic and large datasets;
  3. It requires a predefined schema thus, making changes difficult;
  4. Complex joins and queries on massive datasets can slow down performance;
  5. Indexing is required but can become inefficient as data grows. 

Understanding the Key features of No-SQL Concept and How it Can Apply to Business Need.

Unstructured Query Language (NoSQL) – They are frequent at using various data models e.g. Document, graph-based storage and key-value.

Examples of NoSQL Database; Mongo (a document-based), Cassandra (a column-based), Redis (key-value) and Neo4j (a graph-based).

Features Involves;

  1. Scale; Scales horizontally thereby add more servers to distribute load. It is ideal for large-scale applications with high read/write demands.
  2. Data Consistency and availability; Typically follows BASE (Basically Available, Soft state, Eventually consistent) principles, prioritizing availability over strict consistency.
  3. Flexibility; Uses flexible query models (JSON, key-value, graph) that work well for hierarchical or rapidly changing data structure.
  4. Performance; Faster for high-volume read/write operations, distributed systems, and unstructured data.

Challenges to Expect using No-SQL Database

  1. NoSQL does not have a universal query language.
  2. No strict standards for schema design, indexing or transactions.
  3. NoSQL databases are not optimized for complex queries or joins across multiple datasets.
  4. Developers are familiar with SQL therefore struggle with NoSQL’s different data models.
  5. Each NoSQL database has different query languages and configurations, requiring specialized knowledge.

Hybrid Approach – Combining SQL and NoSQL

This is an art of bringing both SQL (relational) and NoSQL (non-relational) databases together to leverage the strengths of each.

e.g. an e-commerce platform may use SQL for order processing and NoSQL for customer behavior tracking.

Hybrid approach is ideal for businesses that require both structured transactional data management (SQL) and scalable, high-performance data handling (NoSQL).

By strategically using both technologies, organizations can enhance performance, scalability, and efficiency in data-driven applications.

Would you like help designing a hybrid database architecture for your project? Contact us

Challenges of a Hybrid Approach

  1. Data Synchronization – Keeping SQL and NoSQL databases in sync.
  2. Complex Architecture – Managing multiple databases increases system complexity.
  3. Higher Maintenance Costs – Requires expertise in both SQL and NoSQL technologies.
  4. Ensuring Data Consistency is become more difficult
  5. Selecting the right use cases for each requires deep architecture planning before implementation. And not all data types are clearly suited for SQL or NoSQL.

Best Use Cases

SQL; Financial systems, inventory management, CRM, Enterprise Applications, etc.

NoSQL; Big data, Real-time analytics, Content management (Social media), Internet of Things (IoT) and Recommendation systems.

Hybrid Approach; E-commerce (SQL for transactions, NoSQL for product catalog and caching).

Recommendations    SQL and NoSQL Database

It is necessary that your informed decision reflect positively on your business after carefully subscribing to the presented facts of the two (2) query languages.

When to adapt SQL Database

  • If you aim at complex queries, structured data, and strong consistency

When to choose NoSQL Database

  • If your interest is in scalability, flexibility, and high-speed read/write operations.

Finally, choosing between SQL, NoSQL or both depends on the specific requirements of any project.

SQL is best for structured data and transactional consistency, while NoSQL excels in scalability and flexibility.

In some cases, a hybrid approach may be the optimal solution. Understanding the strengths and limitations of both technologies ensures the right database choice for any application.

Legacy System: Challenges and 2 Best Solutions

Originally posted on February 25, 2025 @ 11:31 am

Impact of Legacy Systems

Many individuals and businesses rely on legacy system (outdated software) that may not support new technologies effectively, thereby creating unredeemable limitations.

If you want to randomly ask why the use of outdated software, experts have concluded that individuals and business CEOs are either refraining from the cost implication, the technological trainings required, migration of data that could be time consuming and the risk of loss, thereby impacting negatively on such business.

But why are new technologies important and not keep an outdated software? While legacy systems still function, they tend to hinder growth and innovation.

So, when new technologies are introduced, overall security is enhanced, efficiency is in place and adaptability is possible ensuring a long-term business success.

However, EIYBASE Solutions as an IT-based Solutions that provide answers through our published articles created as post to challenges faced by developers and users or business CEOs such as Today’s Topic “Legacy System Challenges and Two Best Way-Out according to Software Expert”.

And beyond today’s topic, we have also provided solutions/guides to some challenges/problems, and difficulties encountered in;

  1. Software designs, deployment, upgrades and trainings to acquire its skills
  2. Database designs and management for both developers and end-users
  3. Computer Networking
  4. Digitalized Audio Sound Installation/Maintenance and Services
  5. Music Production and
  6. Suspend Ceilings innovations.

Kindly visit our blog page  to find or research more on the above topics/categories

Introduction to Legacy Systems and challenges

A legacy system can be said to be any outdated hardware, software, or technology infrastructure that is still used by individuals or businesses despite the invention of recent technologies in the digital age.

In today’s business world, the kind of software we deploy largely determine how productive or not a business become.

It is on this note that critical or careful consideration is prioritized for efficiency, productivity, growth in business just to mention a few

But, many individual/business CEO have in one way or another ignore basic element functions before picking a business software

A software expert once said, you ought to carefully evaluate software for your individual or business needs, and its scalability/usability are its key focus.

And further conduct trial, check out its user reviews and finally consider its cost, functions and protection against hackers.

3 most popular examples of legacy systems include:

  1. Old Mainframe Applications usually COBOL and are banking systems APP
  2. First categories of OS such like Windows XP, Unix-based servers, Vista
  3. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems that are no longer supported

Challenges includes;

  1. Shortfall of skill programmers that still use old programming languages which is adaptable with legacy systems
  2. As a result of its unpatched software, there is high level risk to cyber attacks
  3. It lacks the ability to handle growing business due to its slow performance in processing
  4. There is high cost of migration and modernisation of Legacy systems
  5. Legacy system incur high cost in maintenance as its outdated software and infrastructure are difficult to get.

The birth of Software APP for as a business need

 Although, the origin of software programs for businesses globally was first initiated in 1950s by J. Lyons & Co. (A British tea company) that was mainly used for payroll and inventory management because they were frustrated with the manual processing from discoveries listed below;

  1. Lack efficiency – it required manpower to deliver task and this is time consuming.
  2. Cost effective – It allows increase in manpower, more cost was incurred
  3. Unreliable output – human error was present when task was delivered
  4. Lack of communication – no technology at that time, thereby created vacuum in workflow
  5. Prone to attacks – restricting of unauthorized users to data was impossible
  6. Complexity in large scales – they could not determine how well and soon business needs can grow
  7. Competition – since there were no technology, business owners or individuals didn’t think of innovation to strife better in the labor market.

The Uniqueness of New Technologies to Business Breakthrough

 We have briefly explained above why new technologies are important when making the choice of software to boost the overall performance of that business.

Moreover, not so many end users consider incorporating intuitive design elements, such as drag-and-drop functionality or customizable dashboards.

Unknown to users that this can lead to a more engaged workforce and reduces the learning curve, ultimately ensuring greater productivity and user satisfaction. Just think of this!

You can further make a research on Tomasz Bąk of the best 10 examples of Business Software to boost your business processes, operations and customer relationships.

The 2 Most Neglected Functions in Selecting Business Software

  1. Scalability of business software – What is it about?

This is when the performance of a software is not compromised and yet having the capacity to handle a growing amount of work, an ability to accommodate user’s and data storage expansion, transaction growth. e.g. cloud-based systems that permits easy upgrades

  1. Usability of a software – What you should know

It shows how well an end-user can deliver any giving task using the software. When it is not friendly, it can lead to inefficiency both for the task and the user of the software.

Thus, a user with little or no knowledge on coding must consider a graphical front-end user interface. e.g. a software with a simple intuitive user interface (SI-UI)

Certainly, after knowing these, further explore solutions by researching and comparing software options.

Now, let me show you the two (2) best approach when software end-users ignore an important area on scalability and usability issues in deploying new business technology software if you are a victim.

2 Best Solutions in Making the Right Choice Software to Boost Business Growth
  1. Pick a Scalable Solutions: One of the most effective strategies is opting for cloud-based software solutions.

These solutions provide the necessary flexibility and scalability that traditional on-premises software may lack.

Is your business an e-commerce company that might utilize a cloud-based inventory management system?

And want it to expand its capacities as the product range increases or when seasonal demand spikes.

 Benefits – The cloud infrastructure allows the business to adjust resources dynamically without incurring significant capital expenses or Service interruptions, thus ensuring smooth scaling in-line with business growth.

  1. Explore User-Centric Design: Prioritizing user experience through user-centric design is a critical factor in enhancing usability.

A financial services firm might involve actual users in the prototype phase of a new CRM system.

By conducting user testing sessions where employees can provide feedback on the interface; from navigation to workflows.

Finally, these two best approach implementations can significantly impact the successful adoption of new business technology.

AI in Sound Engineering: The Future of Digitalized Mix

Originally posted on June 22, 2024 @ 11:00 pm

Introduction to AI in Sound Engineering

AI is a powerful tool that can enhance sound and music production

AI is poised to revolutionise sound engineering, offering tools that enhance creativity, improve efficiency, and democratise access to high-quality production.

Today, AI-driven tools and technologies are the best shot in transforming how sound is created, mixed, and mastered digitally, leading to unprecedented levels of efficiency, creativity, and precision in our sound and music production.

Therefore, our intention is to help you explore the needs on the future of digitalised mix through the lens of Artificial Intelligence (AI), pointing to the followings;

  • Its Historical context with importance of maintaining the human element
  • Relevance of AI in sound and music production
  • Transformative potentials of AI in sound engineering
  • Resources for effective deployment of AI in sound and music production is explained
  • Examples of AI Solutions that is frequently used in Live Concerts and Events
  • Practical Tips to implement AI solutions in your sound and music production; Simpler than you could think
  • My Thought on AI in sound engineering

However, if you desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in advanced digitalised mix by powering AI tools and models, exploring the Resources for Effective Deployment of AI in sound engineering should be your goal.

But I am quite sure you may not grab all the idea from this article unless you first visit our previous article on Sound Engineering: Tips for mastering digitalized mix which will broaden your knowledge on the need and beauty of a digital mix.

Its Historical Context in Sound Engineering

The journey of sound and music production has been marked by significant technological advancements that have revolutionised the industry.

From the era of analog recording to the digital revolution and now the integration of AI, each of these phases has brought unique innovations in its own way.

Understanding this historical context is crucial in appreciating the current landscape [AI] and maintaining the essential human element [that is, despite its digital capabilities, successful production still required human creativity and judgment] in music production.

  • The Analog process which was highly manual, requiring skilled engineers and musicians to achieve the desired sound with integral collaboration often working in the studio.
  • Next, the introduction of digital sound and music production brought about a paradigm shift. Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools emerged and some other tools

The Digital technology allowed for precise editing, layering, and manipulation of sound.

  • Now, the emergence of AI technologies began to be integrated into music production tools and processes. BUT HOW?
  1. AI-driven plugins and software gives room for advanced functionalities such as automated mixing, mastering, and sound design.
  2. Musicians, sound engineers and music producers are adapting to the new tools, incorporating digital techniques while striving to retain the organic feel of music.

Relevance of AI in Sound and Music Production

First, it is necessary to open up a broader perspective to you our reader on the future of sound engineering with AI, making it highly relevant and informative thereby delving into the latest trends and technologies

Some of its unwavering relevance are;

  1. Contemporary theme of digitalisation that provide insights into the cutting-edge advancements that are transforming the field of sound engineering
  2. With AI’s tools, there is so much enhancement in sound and music production for mastering digitalised mixes
  3. AI opens new possibilities for artists and producers e.g. Amper Music platforms that sets parameters, aiding a more robust creative process for all
  4. AI allows musicians and sound engineers to focus more on the artistic aspects of their work.
  5. Its impact on the music industry will spontaneously grow, fostering innovation and expanding the horizons to more advanced digital productions.
  6. AI helps in generating chord progressions, melodies, and harmonies, expanding creative possibilities.

6 AI’s Transformative Potential in Sound and Music Production

  1. Automated audio editing and correction.
  2. AI can assist in live sound settings, adapting to acoustical changes and optimising audio in real-time.
  3. AI can analyze and adjust levels ensuring a polished mix with little of human intervention
  4. AI is used in interactive art installations to process and generate sound in response to audience movement and interaction
  5. It is accessible to novice producers, enabling high-quality production with less technical expertise.
  6. Preservation of audio quality without degradation over time.

5 Major Resources for Effective Deployment of AI in Sound and Music Production

By leveraging these resources to be discussed here, musicians, sound engineers and music producers can effectively deploy AI in sound and music production, enhancing creativity, automation, and quality in the industry. The resources are as follows;

  1. AI Frameworks and Libraries: Are software tools that provide developers with pre-built functions and structures.

They efficiently build, train, and deploy artificial intelligence models for various applications. E.g TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras

2. Datasets and Data Sources: They are audio recordings and associated metadata used to train AI models for tasks such as audio classification, sound synthesis, and music generation. E.g. MIDI files

3. Cloud Computing Services: Available in the delivering of computing resources like sound and music software, AI tools over the internet.

E.g. AWS AI services, Google cloud AI platform, Microsoft Azure AI.

4. AI-powered Tools and Software: Application programs equipped with AI capabilities, designed to automate tasks, perform complex operations like music composition.

E.g Open AI Jukebox, LANDR, AIVA

5. Community and Educational Resources: These are necessary for integrating AI in sound engineering.

Why?

They provide essential knowledge, collaborative opportunities, skill development, and access to tools and ethical guidelines, fostering innovation and effective application of AI technologies.

E.g. AI and music conferences (ISMIR), online courses and tutorials (Coursera, edX, Udacity), GitHub repositories

Moreover, it is been proven that one of the primary reasons for integrating AI into your sound and music production is to transform sound engineering, thereby making complex tasks more efficient and opening up new creative possibilities.

SOME Examples of AI Solutions being used in Live Concerts and Events

  • Google’s WaveNet developed by DeepMind – A speech and audio recognition software for identifying, isolating and processing speech elements.

AI using speech model for sound and music detection

  • OpenAI’s MuseNet – An AI model that helps generate music in various styles and instruments. It therefore uses deep learning to compose original pieces that is generated

AI in Engineering, explore this great model

  • iZotope’s Ozone – A Recognized AI-powered mastering software. It automatically analyses audio tracks and suggest adjustments to equalization, compression, and other effects to achieve a professionally polished sound mix

Lovely AI software for digitalised sound mix

Practical Tips – How to implement AI in sound engineering.
  1. Input and Analysis: The audio file is input into the AI system, which performs speech recognition and source separation to identify and isolate different elements.
  2. Processing: The isolated elements are processed individually with AI-driven tools for noise reduction, EQ, and compression.
  3. Mixing: The processed elements are recombined, with AI providing real-time adjustments to maintain balance and clarity.
  4. Output: The final mix is exported with metadata tags generated by the AI for easy reference and further processing.
MY THOUGHT ON AI IN SOUND ENGINEERING

By understanding and embracing these technologies, sound engineers can leverage on AI, the faster your accomplishment, fulfillment and achievements thereby ensuring that you stay at the forefront of an ever-evolving industry.