When you think about Star Wars, it may be difficult to single out any one element. The kinetic energy of lightsabers clashing, the sweeping visuals of alien landscapes, the intense drama of a space battle—all these pieces come together to create a world that so many of us are so eager to revisit.

One gigantic piece of that puzzle is sound: Every single sound, from the most minute footstep to the loudest ion cannon, is carefully recorded, placed, and mixed to create a world our minds gladly accept as reality for two hours.

Shawn Murphy, Dann Michael Thompson, and Pat Sullivan have helped shape the soundscape of Star Wars through the musical score mix. During their AMA, they discuss what it’s like to work with John Williams and George Lucas, the equipment used to create the unique sound of the saga, and how mixing music has changed over the past few decades.

They also brought along the upcoming Star Wars: The Ultimate Vinyl Collection, which they unboxed for us and answered a question about the vinyl release. Check it out below!

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