FAQ

FAQ Answer ManFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to the Avid Expert’s FAQ page.

Please come on in and get yourself a heaping, healthy helping of the questions most commonly asked of your resident TechXpert (Kiel Hunt). If you happen to have question nagging at you that this list doesn’t seem to cover – feel free to shoot an email or give a call – Kiel can probably answer you right off the top of his head.

As the Avid/ProTools Expert, what exactly is it that you do?

You’re welcome to visit my Services page for a more detailed description, but the short answer is: I provide private individuals, solo operators and businesses of all sizes – small, medium and large – with Avid/Pro Tools Technical service and training, in addition to Audio Mixing/Mastering, and A/V Consulting.

Sounds Cool, But What Does that Mean?

Well, once again, I suggest you hit up my Services page, but here’s the short version:

AVID/ProTools Technical Services – If you’re running either (or both) of these applications in your home, office, studio, sound stage, mixing plant or other work-space facility, and you need help – with installation, configuration, optimization, updates, upgrades, trouble shooting, or just a bit of fine tuning – I’m your guy. I show up and handle it all, from top to bottom, and get your system running in top form, in no time flat (usually – unless something really nutty is happening, and we have to start from scratch. But let’s cross that bridge when we come to it).

AVID/ProTools Training – Need to know how to use either (or both) of these applications? I can show you everything – from the “on” button, to bouncing polished audio mixes and fully rendered videos down to your hard drive. My instructional style is tailored to your particular skill level. More advanced users: we’ll power through and dig deep into the refined details. Beginners: we’ll take it slow and make sure you understand the basics and feel comfortable with general use.

Audio Mixing/MasteringNeed to record a demo song or turn a demo into a polished recording? Need to record audio for a live broadcast or a Podcast? Need to add voiceover, sound effects or music to video or film? I’ll help you record a record contract generating demo, give your demo tracks the “hit single” treatment, polish up your video’s audio quality guaranteeing it will become the next viral sensation, or give your movie the “masterpiece” touch with audio perfection.

A/V Installations – Interested in installing a home studio or a studio in your office? How about upgrading your current studio, sound stage, mixing plat or other work-space facility? Great, I can help. I’ll select the ideal hardware, software and outboard equipment for your particular space and project, set everything up and get you up and running and sounding like a pro!

Wow, Sounds Like You’re in the “Know!” So How Long Have You Been Doing This?

I’ve been in the A/V biz for 10+ years – working first as a studio technician while attending Santa Monica College, and then as mixing and mastering engineer, sharing my knowledge by training others in the field, and consulting on A/V installation projects all along the way.

So, What do You Charge for Your Hourly Rate?

As the saying goes: “It all depends…” (on the job). Here again, I invite you to visit my Services page to get a better idea of pricing.

Are you Avid certified (ACSR)?

Yes, I’ve completed the course work required to become an Avid Certified Support Representative (ACSR), and I’ve been certified for 3 of years.

And, What Exactly Does That Mean?

For those of who don’t know what it means to be an ACSR, instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, I’ll let Avid explain… Avid Certified Support Representative Certification

Can You Teach Me How to Use Avid or Pro Tools?

Is Bootsy Collins Funky? Of course I can teach you how to use Avid and ProTools! I’ve taught countless recording and film industry professionals and amateurs alike. And I can show you everything you need to know to lay down audio tracks and edit videos with perfection.

Can You Master My Audio Tracks, Videos and Movies?

I’m tempted to use the Bootsy line again, but the short answer is yes, I can give your audio tracks, videos and films that “high gloss” sheen only professional audio mastered products can impart.

How Far Outside of Your Local Area Are You Willing to Travel For a Job?

Pretty much anywhere in SoCal, as long as it’s worthy project and of course if the money’s right. That being said, however, I do charge a “trip fee” for venturing outside of my South LA area base of operation. Anywhere within a 10 mile-radius of my office is free. After that, however, I add an additional $0.75/mile to your final bill.

Do You Offer A/V Technical Consulting?

Absolutely. Need to know the ideal hardware and software to buy for a particular project, studio or workspace? I can help. Need an estimate of how long it will take to complete a recording project, the equipment and personnel required and the overall cost involved? I can help. Any other recording, mixing, installation or training questions? I can (probably) help.

Are You Available to Work 24hrs a Day or For Unconventional (other than 9am-5pm) Hours?

Yes. But for extended projects at odd hours, my hourly rate increases.

Are You “On Call” and Available to Work on Very Short Notice

If we’ve worked together in the past, and you have access to the “Hotline,” and I’m not already otherwise disposed, then yes. If you’re just some random person off the street that I don’t know and have never worked with before – then probably not. (just being honest)

What Form of Payment Do You Accept?

For services rendered, I accept live chickens, Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, cash, checks, money orders, cashier’s checks or PayPal – actually I don’t accept live chickens or Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies.

Acceptable forms of payment include: cash, checks, money orders, cashier’s checks or PayPal. Oh, and did I say cash? Because cash is always nice.