Essential Mixing Techniques for Audio Applications
Mixing trends and preferences evolve. No single approach is definitively right or wrong. Similarly, mixing concepts vary—identical tools yield unique experiences and ideas.
1
Achieve Clarity: Use high-pass/low-pass filters to define each instrument's frequency range precisely. The free BX_Cleansweep plugin is highly effective.
2
Automate: Every DAW offers robust automation. Don't settle for static levels—micro-adjust balances per section, phrase, or syllable. Automate send/insert effects too.
3
Panning: Pan elements across the stereo field. Avoid obsession over "perfect" positions—only hard-left, center, and hard-right translate consistently across systems. Pan boldly.
4
Strategic Breaks: Rest your ears to regain perspective. Mixing is intensive—pause every few hours to reset. Distractions don't count as valid breaks.
5
Complete Editing First: Finalize drum edits, vocal comping, pitch correction, and drum/bass alignment before mixing. Half-finished edits drain creative momentum.
1
Achieve Clarity: Use high-pass/low-pass filters to define each instrument's frequency range precisely. The free BX_Cleansweep plugin is highly effective.
2
Automate: Every DAW offers robust automation. Don't settle for static levels—micro-adjust balances per section, phrase, or syllable. Automate send/insert effects too.
3
Panning: Pan elements across the stereo field. Avoid obsession over "perfect" positions—only hard-left, center, and hard-right translate consistently across systems. Pan boldly.
4
Strategic Breaks: Rest your ears to regain perspective. Mixing is intensive—pause every few hours to reset. Distractions don't count as valid breaks.
5
Complete Editing First: Finalize drum edits, vocal comping, pitch correction, and drum/bass alignment before mixing. Half-finished edits drain creative momentum.