Mixing music is an essential skill for any producer or engineer, and every project comes with unique challenges. In this video, I share valuable music mixing tips and answer common client questions based on a recent project. You’ll get to hear a before-and-after comparison of the original mix versus the mastered version, along with insights into key mixing decisions that made a difference. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, there’s plenty to take away from this discussion.
The Backstory
Every mix comes with a unique story, and this project was no different. Before diving into the technical aspects, I take a moment to explain how this project came about, the client’s goals, and the challenges we aimed to overcome. Understanding the context behind a mix can be just as important as the technical adjustments.
Before and After Comparison
One of the most valuable ways to improve your mixing skills is by listening critically to before-and-after comparisons. In this section, I play the original mix followed by the mastered version, highlighting the differences in clarity, balance, and overall energy. This demonstration helps illustrate the impact of proper mixing and mastering techniques.
Level Matching
A common mistake when comparing different versions of a mix is ignoring level matching. Louder often sounds better to the human ear, but it’s crucial to ensure a fair comparison. Here, I discuss how to properly level-match mixes so you can accurately judge improvements without being fooled by volume differences.
Mixing Disclaimer – Important Note
Mixing and mastering are highly subjective processes, and no single approach fits all situations. Here, I address the importance of context in mixing advice. Every mix decision depends on the track’s genre, arrangement, and overall artistic vision, so it’s important to use these tips as guidelines rather than strict rules.
What Are the One or Two Key Moves?
One of the most common questions I get from clients is, “What are the key changes you made to improve the mix?” In this section, I break down the most impactful adjustments in this particular project. Whether it was EQ balancing, dynamic range control, or stereo imaging, I explain how these small but crucial moves transformed the mix.
Answering Client Questions
Throughout the mixing process, clients often ask insightful questions about improving their mixes, avoiding common mistakes, and achieving professional results. In this section, I address several key topics that many producers struggle with, sharing practical advice and best practices for achieving a polished sound. Whether you’re dealing with balance issues, dynamics, or workflow efficiency, there’s something valuable in here for everyone.
For those who want an even deeper dive into the mixing process, I’ve created an exclusive members-only video where I walk through my entire mixing session. This video breaks down the exact moves I made in detail, showing the plugins, processing chains, and workflow that helped bring this track to life. If you’re serious about improving your mixes, this behind-the-scenes look is a must-watch.
Members-ONLY Video: Look Inside My Mixing Session
Mixing is both a technical skill and an art form, requiring careful listening, patience, and the right techniques. By walking through this project, I hope you gained some useful insights into making better mix decisions and overcoming common challenges.
If you have any questions about mixing or need help with your projects, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out! And don’t forget—members get access to an exclusive Look Inside My Mixing Session video for a deeper dive into my workflow.
Related Videos
For those looking to expand their knowledge further, check out these related resources:
- What You Need to Know About Gain Staging
- Polishing Your Mix with K Metering
- Mixing with Pink Noise
- Should You Use Compression on the Mix Buss?
- Compression – Everything You Need to Know
- Audio Compression – Is Compression Multiplied?
Subscribe to stay updated on more music production tips and tutorials!
GET A FREE STEREO MASTERED SAMPLE