My Mixing Process

I want to write down the steps I take from the beginning to end of mix now, early in the year, because it might be fun to re-write this post in December and compare.

• If mixing for a band or group, find out who makes the final call on this mix and only send bounces to them.
• Does the track need any additional work, such as:
• vocal tuning
• comping (vocals, claps, any tracks that function as one)
• wet bounces of stems (ask for specific dry ones if necessary)
• bouncing down super produced parts (i.e. groups of vocals)

• Get the producer’s vision for the track.
• Get reference tracks.
• Import stems into colour-coded template.
• Gain stage?
• Cleanup stems, get familiar with each stem.
• Make sure the session is backed up.
• Get familiar with rough mix; honour and enhance it.
• Ask myself, how much impact can I have on this mix in the fewest moves possible?
• Add colour, energy, clarity.
• Can you make arrangement enhancements? What interesting moments or events could be enhanced?
• Automation (including vocal throws, master fader rides, and reverb return rides)
• Print

• Start with the loudest/busiest part of the song.
• Volume is everything.
• Don’t start mixing yet, but keep notes on tracks that you have ideas for as you balance.
• What is the listener supposed to be focused on at any given moment?