How to Create Compelling Mixes

Acknowledgments
Introduction. About This Book
Considerations of Modern Mixing
Tips and References

Chapter 1. Mixing Philosophies
Are You a Musician, Producer, or Engineer?
Right Brain vs. Left Brain
The Importance of "Feel"
The Importance of the Arrangement
What's Your Intended Result?
Key Takeaways

Chapter 2. Technical Basics
Hearing and Frequency Response
Monitoring and Acoustics
Test Your Mix on Multiple Playback Systems
Key Takeaways

Chapter 3. Basics of Mixing with Computers
Mixer Architecture
Unique Aspects of Mixing with Digital Audio
Key Takeaways

Chapter 4. How to Use Plug-Ins
Plug-In Technologies
Plug-In Formats
Stereo vs. Mono Plug-Ins
Effects Plug-Ins Are Always "Re-Amping"
The Four Places to Insert Effects
Using Virtual Instrument Plug-Ins
Using Hardware Effects when Mixing
Key Takeaways

Chapter 5. Mixing and MIDI
Mixing's Most Important MIDI Data
Virtual Instruments and CPU Issues
Enhancing MIDI Drum Parts in the Mix
Enhancing Synth Parts in the Mix
Humanizing Sequences
How Timing Shifts Produce "Feel"
Tempo Track Timing Tweaks
Proofing MIDI Sequences
Key Takeaways

Chapter 6. Preparing for the Mix
Before You Mix
Mental Preparation, Organization, and Setup
Review the Tracks
Render Soft Synths as Audio Tracks
Set Up a Relative Level Balance Among the Tracks
Key Takeaways



Chapter 7. Adjusting Equalization
Overview
Equalizer Responses
Main EQ Parameters
Dynamic Equalization
Spectrum Analysis
Linear-Phase Equalization
Mid-Side Processing with Equalization
The Pros—and Pitfalls—of Presets
EQ Applications
Additional Equalization Tips
Key Takeaways

Chapter 8. Adding Dynamics Processing
Manual Gain-Riding
Level-Riding Plug-Ins
Normalization
Limiter
Compressor
Loudness Maximizer
Expander
Transient Shaper
Noise Gate
Sidechaining
Should Compression Go Before or After EQ?
Key Takeaways

Chapter 9. Adding Other Effects
Console Emulation
Tape Emulation
Distortion
Delay
Stereo Image Enhancers
Modulation Effects (Chorus, Flanger, etc.)
Auto-Pan and Tremolo
De-Esser
Multieffects Plug-Ins
Pitch Correction
Pitch Transposer
Exciter
Restoration Plug-Ins
Multiband Processing
Key Takeaways

Chapter 10. Creating a Stereo Soundstage
Panning Basics
Panning Tips
Binaural Panning
The Audio Architect: Building Your Acoustical Space
About Reverb
Create Virtual Room Mics with Delay
Plan Ahead with Reverb and Panning
Key Takeaways

Chapter 11. Using Mix Automation
What You Can Automate
Automation Basics
Automation Methods
Automating Plug-Ins
Using Hardware Control Surfaces
Automation Applications
Plug-In Automation Applications
Virtual Instrument Automation Applications
Key Takeaways

Chapter 12. Review and Export
Mastering While Mixing—Pros and Cons
Export Your Mixed File
Check Your Mix Over Different Systems
Key Takeaways

Appendix. Mixing with Noise
Why Mixing Can Be Challenging
The Backstory Behind Using Noise
Mixing with Noise
Summary