Recording Handbook - Hol.gr

SECTION V: MIXING
5.1) What is the mixing process?
Basically, you sit in a booth while an engineer tries a bunch of different things with the mix.
A song is mixed the same way it was recorded; drums first, then bass, then everything else, with
vocals last. Each track gets its particular sound down, effects are added at the board, and general
levels are set. Once the sound of each track is dialed in, the whole song is run through to listen for
any places where special mixing attention is needed.
Once everything's set, the mixing engineer does a "dry run", running the entire song through with
all the settings and all the tweaks. Finally, the DAT is positioned and the engineer runs it for the
final mix.
Some studios have automated mixing consoles that handle the tweaks with no intervention from
the engineer. (I think these are really keen. You get to watch the sliders and knobs move by
themselves!)
5.2) What are the basic do's and dont's?
Do voice your opinion if you don't like something.
Don't touch the board. Leave that to the engineer.
Do try to be patient. (See 5.3).
Don't get burned out on one song.
5.3) If I hear this song one more time, I'm going postal.
Yup. It happens, it sucks. Part of the process. Mixing is arguably the most important step in the
recording process, and it's very, very important to stay focused. Unfortunately, mixing also
involves listening to the same song over and over and over again. If it feels like you're losing touch
with the song, or losing focus, take a break or move on to another song for a while.
5.4) I want more me in the mix.
Before you say anything, make sure you really do. Try to picture the song as a whole, not just a
collection of solo pieces. If you've carefully considered the interplay of all the parts, and you still
think that your solo should be louder, say something. Be prepared to be shot down by someone,
and remember, if you've agreed to have a producer, make sure you're not gonna piss 'em off. (See
5.5)
5.5) I don't like what the producer's doing.
Mmm, this is sticky. First off, the producer should be open to your ideas. They're your songs. If the
producer isn't paying attention to anything you say, you might want a new producer. Talk to him or
her. Try not to get emotional about it; explain yourself rationally. If nothing else, try for a
compromise.
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