THE COP SHOP
Welcome to The Cop Shop, your go-to boutique project studio in Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, run by seasoned composer, producer, and engineer Michael Haves. Drawing on a rich history in music production, work with Artist like Bruckner, Julia Marcell or my own albums with SUPER700, soundtracks for theater and films, and 3 years of work with Albanian bands at Studio C in Prishtina, Kosovo, we offer a broad spectrum of services. We specialize in recording, mixing, producing, and mastering across all genres, helping artists discover their unique sound.
COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
As a part of "Die Wache," a dynamic creative collective filled with skilled musicians and media professionals, we offer access to high-grade equipment, including a Dolby Atmos-equipped mastering room and a shared pool of high-quality microphones, guitars, amps, pedals, and analog synthesizers. For specifics, feel free to email me. Our mobile setups and studio partnerships ensure the perfect sound solution for any project within budget. So let's craft something extraordinary together.
With a recording career spanning over 25 years, my journey began by taping on four-track cassette machines in the 90s. Over the years, I've honed my skills as a producer and recording engineer, contributing to a multitude of records, as well as my own albums and soundtracks. My diverse portfolio spans across various genres, encompassing rock and pop bands, jazz ensembles, children's choirs, rappers and classical music. This wealth of experience has equipped me with the expertise and versatility to bring out the best in any recording project.
RECORDING
MIXING
Mixing is more than combining sounds - it's about crafting a sonic bridge between the music and the listener. I prioritize understanding and manifesting the artist's vision into a unique sound that showcases their creativity.
Understandably, financial constraints may lead artists to self-record. Regardless, I encourage early engagement in your creative process. I offer guidance on self-recording best practices, suitable equipment, and music enhancement. My aim is to prime your tracks for a mix that truly connects with your audience.
PRODUCING
The record will be done.
Crafting a record is a unique journey, and my goal is to help you find the path that best suits your musical style. We'll start by selecting the right songs, deciding on the best recording method, and capturing your finest performances for standout mixes.
Record crafting goes beyond just laying tracks; it's also about finding the right sounds, selecting suitable musicians for solo artists, and refining band arrangements and song lyrics. Even if you're recording independently, I can assist with crucial elements like pre-production. I also have access to a huge pool of talented musicians. As a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter in english and german I bring a wealth of experience to ensure your production shines bright.
In addition to my personal experiences, I've had the privilege of watching esteemed producers such as Rob Kirwan (Hozier, PJ Harvey, Depeche Mode, Editors), Gordon Raphael (The Strokes, Regina Spektor), and Alex Silva (Manic Street Preachers, Herbert Grönemeyer) at work. I've also had the chance to observe sessions conducted by the likes of recordist Mark Howard (Bob Dylan, Tom Waits) and bands such as Phoenix. This eclectic mix of experiences and influences shaped my approach to production, allowing me to bring a unique perspective to your project.
MASTERING
Mastering demands an elevated level of acoustic ambience and speaker quality. This is why for mastering I often move over to my beloved neighbour Martin Ruch's Control Room. This state-of-the-art facility boasts impeccable room acoustics around the extraordinary Strauss Mastering speakers. They are, without a doubt, the finest speakers I have ever encountered. Adding to that the room is outfitted with a Dolby Atmos Setup, so i can also cover those needs.
I advocate for enlisting a fresh pair of ears for the mastering process. If requested to master a mix that I have personally created, I need a break between the mixing and mastering stages for a renewed perspective, ensuring that the mastering process is as objective and precise as possible.
