Shaping Soundscapes: An Exclusive Interview with Audio Engineer Kaiki Chan

Kaiki Chan’s journey into audio engineering is as inspiring as it is illustrative of the intersection between technical mastery and artistic passion. In this interview, Kaiki discusses their path from youthful curiosity about the entertainment world to an accomplished career that includes mixing standout tracks like Summer Cologne and restoring the audio of classic films at Audio Mechanics. The interview touches on the challenges of balancing creativity with client expectations, the rewards of collaboration, and the evolving landscape of sound engineering. Kaiki’s insights offer a window into the artistry and precision that define their work in shaping unforgettable audio experiences.

1. Kaiki Chan, it’s a pleasure to connect with you and discuss your decorated career as an audio engineer. Before we get stuck into your accomplishments, can you take us back to the first moment you realized audio engineering might be more than a hobby and could become a lifelong pursuit?

From a young age, I was always drawn to the world of entertainment whether it was film, music, or television. What really fascinated me was the behind-the-scenes process: how all of these elements come together to create something that resonates with the audience. As I grew older, I became increasingly interested in sound and how it shapes our perception of media. It was in my teenage years, when I first started experimenting with recording equipment, that I realized this was more than just a hobby. I began to see audio engineering as a path that could blend my technical curiosity with my creative interests, and from that point, I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career.

2. How did your early influences lead you toward refining your technical skills and understanding the artistry involved in shaping sound?

Throughout my academic years, I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly inspiring peers and professors who broadened my perspective. Although I initially felt that sound engineering was a niche, I quickly discovered just how expansive the field really was. Whether it was through learning about acoustics, mixing, or the creative possibilities of sound design, I realized that audio engineering is both a technical craft and an artistic expression. The more I learned, the more I recognized how sound can influence emotion, narrative, and overall experience, which ultimately refined both my technical abilities and my artistic sensibilities.

3. Along the way, have you had to overcome any challenges which ultimately gave you more confidence as an engineer?

One of the most challenging aspects of being an audio engineer is the constant balancing act between creativity and client expectations. Over the years, I’ve learned that the moments that truly boost my confidence are when I’m able to meet those expectations while still maintaining a high level of creativity. Whether it’s delivering a sound mix that elevates a project or receiving positive feedback from clients who are thrilled with the final product, those moments serve as reminders of why I’m doing this work and motivate me to continue pushing myself.

4. Could you share some insights into what drew you towards working as a mixing engineer on the track “Summer Cologne” and what made that collaboration such a standout moment in your career?

“Summer Cologne” was one of the first major projects I worked on as an audio engineer, and it stands out for a few reasons. One key factor was the collaboration itself. The artist was incredibly open to new ideas, and the creative freedom allowed me to experiment and really find the right sound. Additionally, the project came together remotely due to the pandemic, which was a new experience for many professionals at the time. The challenges of working virtually helped me realize the potential for remote collaboration and taught me how to adapt quickly to new technologies and workflows, which has been invaluable in my career.

5. What was the most rewarding aspect of restoring the audio of old films at Audio Mechanics?

Restoring old film audio is an incredibly rewarding experience for me, primarily because it feels like I am giving new life to pieces of history. Many of these films had soundtracks or audio elements that had deteriorated over time, and the opportunity to preserve them for future generations felt meaningful on a much larger scale. There’s something deeply gratifying about knowing that my work will allow people to experience these films in their most authentic form, and that I’m contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage in a way that can be appreciated by audiences for years to come.

6. How do you navigate the pressure of deadlines and high expectations while still allowing creativity to flow naturally?

Managing deadlines and high expectations is definitely part of the job, but I’ve found that the key is balance. Time management is crucial, but it’s also important to let the creative process take its course. When I’m really in the zone, it feels like nothing else matters. Hunger, sleep, even time itself become secondary to the flow of ideas. It’s when I’m able to focus fully on the task at hand that I can create my best work. And, as for high expectations, I’ve learned to embrace them as a source of motivation rather than pressure. They push me to strive for excellence, and they often lead to some of my most fulfilling work.

7. What do you hope to achieve in your career that will leave a meaningful imprint on the industry?

My goal is simple: I want to continue contributing to the world of sound in a meaningful way. Entertainment, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in shaping how we understand the world, connect with each other, and experience life. While it may not be life-or-death work, the emotional impact of great sound design or engineering is undeniable. I’m proud to be a part of that process, and my aspiration is to keep working on projects that resonate with people, spark emotions, and leave a lasting impact, whether it’s through a film, an album, or any other medium.

8. What would you say to inspire others to follow their own engineering paths?

The journey in audio engineering is one of constant learning, and that’s something I’m still experiencing every day. One of the most important things I’ve learned along the way is the value of mentorship. Having someone who can guide you, offer advice, and challenge you to grow is invaluable. But just as important is believing in yourself. This is a field that requires dedication, patience, and a passion for learning, and it’s crucial to stay committed even when the road gets tough. My advice would be to embrace the learning process, seek out mentors, and above all, trust in your own potential to contribute something unique to the field.

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Connect with Kaiki Chan on Instagram & check out their work on Spotify.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast