How To Get A Better Mix with Jane Arnison - Mixing Workshop

Sound engineers and audio professionals understand the importance of providing their listeners with a great audio mix. Once the recording is complete, the mixing process is what makes sure that the end result is well balanced and finely tuned for the audience. A good mix can make all the difference between a record-breaking hit and an undiscovered gem.

To help aspiring engineers, producers and artists get a better mix, here are some helpful tips and tricks.

1. Focus on Clarity

When mixing, clarity should be the end goal. Focus on having each sound clear and defined while also blending well with the others. A good mix should have the sounds balanced and de-cluttered so that the listener can distinguish the different instruments, tones and effects.

2. Know Your Limitations

It’s important to recognize and understand your audio capabilities. Knowing when to push the boundaries and when it’s better to take a step back is key for a good mix. Mastering the technical side is a must, including understanding your hardware, software, genres and how to use plugins, compressors and equalizers.

3. Find Your EQ Sweet Spot

Equalization (EQ) helps you shape the sound according to what you want to present to the audience. Understanding how to use EQ and what frequencies to adjust for each sound is essential for a great mix.

4. Leave Room for Effects

It’s important to leave a certain level of creativity for the audio effects. Experimenting with reverb, delay, echo and other tools can achieve a realistic sound while keeping the elements of the mix intact.

5. Use Metering

Having a good visual understanding of all the elements of a mix is crucial. Audio metering tools are essential as they provide a visual representation of the levels, allowing the user to reference various audio frequencies and see where adjustments should be made.

6. Reference Tracks

Comparing a mix track against other popular, professional audio tracks is a great way to get a better idea of what should and shouldn’t be in a mix. Reference tracks give the user the opportunity to better understand their track, analyze the differences and learn from the professionals.

Following these tips will ensure a better audio mix. Implementing good practices and understanding the technical side of recording, mixing and mastering is the key to getting great results. Don’t be afraid to take