How To Mix A SongDustin T

Goal of mixing

• Does the Song have a hook?– If yes, then start mixing– If no, consider rewriting

• Is the song interesting before mixing?– If yes, then start mixing– If no, consider re-recording

Just as much of an art as a science• Mixing, although creative, is also a

science. • Reffered to as ‘Audio Engineering’• Proper ear training is recommended• Song generally takes 4-8 hours

Terms

• Equalization – Changes or cancels out higher and lower sounds

• Panning – Determines where in the mix a track is located

• Volume- Determines how loud a track is• Compression – Equals out the volume levels on a

track• Effects- Effects include reverb, delay, chorus… etc.

Step 1

• There are no rules• A good start- add light compression and

equalization to each instrument. • Reverb can be used sparingly to give

spaciousness• Adjust the frequencies of each instrument

Step 2

• Center-pan the bass guitar and drum. • Lead vocals, should be the only tracks panned

to the center. • Mute the other tracks when applying• Mess around with levels, YOU’D BE SURPRISED

Mixing Support

Step 3

• Un-mute the drum tracks - mix them with the bass.

• When setting pan, position the drums as if you are hearing a live drummer.

• Be sure that the cymbals' volume is not overpowering.

Step 4

• Add in the background instruments. • Pan like you were listening to a live band

onstage. • Guitars can be set to about 30 left and right.• Each instrument should be heard clearly.

Step 5

• Add lead guitars or any other solo instruments• Feel free to experiment if the melody allows.• Volume can be used slightly more to bring out

the melody and/or harmonies.• Watch out for conflicting instruments.

Step 6

• Insert the vocals, with the lead track panned • The vocals need to be and clear• However, do not to overcompensate.• Keep harmony vocals more to the background.• Singer should sound “real”.

Step 7

• Listen to the song in its entirety.• Use headphones and outboard speakers.• Correct any mistakes.• Check main volume levels.• Send out for mastering. *Mastering is a

different process within its entirety. Very few songs can be mixed and not have to be mastered.

Tips

• There are no rigid rules with mixing.• Each instrument needs to have its own space.• Experiment with the interaction of your

effects chain.• Not everyone gets it at first.

Conclusion

• There are over 5 million bands in America.• Never been a better time to mix.• The more bands there are, the more need

there is.• Everybody’s starts somewhere.• Patience is key.