There are two different techniques for applying mastering processing to a mix: in the Master track of the Set you’re mixing in or in a separate Set just used for mastering. The conventional approach is, of course, to complete the mix then master it separately. However, there are always variations. If I’m doing a quick […]
MASTER IN THE MIX, pt. 2
As I’ve mentioned a couple of times, I find that applying mastering processing to a nearly completed mix can help draw attention to flaws in the mix. In particular, I sometimes find peaks in individual tracks, overly dense sections of the mix, or errant low frequencies that sound fine until I try to squash the […]
MIX LOW, pt. 2
I’m not a digital audio expert, but I read up on it a fair amount and do my best to understand it. I’ve come to the conclusion that headroom is a valuable resource at every point in the mix. This means I’m keeping an eye not just on the master fader but also on the […]
SHOULD I MIX IN ABLETON LIVE? THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE GLITCHY
A couple of years back, I stopped mixing in Live. This started as a workaround for performance problems I was encountering, but turned out to have a great creative benefit as well. People are sometimes surprised to hear that my studio life isn’t entirely Live-centric. Well, for a number of years it was. When Live 7 […]
Building The Mix Room, Pt. 1: WHY?
For the last month or so, I’ve been busy putting together a studio dedicated to mixing. This has cost quite a bit of time spent researching, buying, and configuring gear, and more time spent building and installing acoustic treatments and figuring out ergonomics. And yeah, it cost a bunch of money too. I’m still not […]
