Hey RO'ers I want to know when you all are mixing in the digital domain, what levels do you start at? I usually have the master fader at unity and back off the levels on the other faders until that particular element of the song sounds right with the rest of the mix, is this a fair way of starting a mix? I usually try to mix all of the elements of the song without any "makeup" (compression, EQ, etc) to the point where I can hear all of the elements. Then I apply some "makeup" to the mix when I get it all mixed down. With the "makeup" applied, then I mix adjusting the levels and panning of the buses that I have particular elements going to, whether that be a compressor or EQ, or maxim, until it sounds good that way. This usually works for me, what ways do some of you guys start your mixing sessions?
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Like Alecio says. No fixed rules....... Except one I suppose. Do
Like Alecio says. No fixed rules....... Except one I suppose. Don't go into the red!
I try mixing different ways and any stage that works well I throw into my general way of working method, so it's really a constantly evolving process. Another good place to start is bring your vocals up and mix everything around that, assuming the vocals are the focal point as they commonly are.
Some of my best mixes have been just throwing up all the faders and kind of "massaging" them into shape, not concentrating on any one channel, but listening as a whole until it gets to a point of tweaking to bring out certain nuances of intruments with automation etc.
Right now, my rig consists of Protools Free on a G3 powerbook, so my current mix method involved alot of submixing as I only have 8 audio tracks. You can hear the results on the website in my signature.
Just dive in and enjoy! I too always leave the master at unity, but I have read many threads that argue whether this is good/bad or makes no difference, so just use your ears and make it sound inspiring and alive.
I love it when a mix comes together!
Rob
hi NO fixed rules but generally people start raising the Kick d
hi
NO fixed rules but generally people start raising the Kick drum fader and others, with vocal channel and try to build a sketch towards these elements.
I myelf try to build a solid "base", which genreally is: Drums, BAss, acoustic guitar or piano or rythm guitars and the lead vocal.
After this, anything can happen.
I generally start with the master Fader at Zero dB.