The essence of mixing is the balance between instruments or mix elements. No matter how good you are at other aspects of the mixing process, if you don’t get the balance right, you don’t have a mix.
In the realm of music production, the art of mixing is pivotal, hinging on the delicate balance between various instruments or elements within a mix. Bobby Owsinski, in his insightful blog post, underscores the importance of visualizing your mix before diving into the actual mixing process. He posits that achieving the right balance is crucial; without it, the essence of a mix is lost, regardless of proficiency in other mixing facets.
Owsinski introduces six thought-provoking exercises designed to aid mixers, especially novices, in visualizing their final product. These exercises revolve around critical questions concerning the balance, EQ settings, panning, compression, ambience, and the standout elements of a track.
By contemplating questions like the final balance of instruments, their EQ settings, how they are panned, compressed, and the ambience within the track, mixers can begin to form a mental image of the desired outcome. This preliminary visualization serves as a foundational step towards achieving a mix that resonates with both the mixer’s and the listeners’ expectations.
Moreover, Owsinski emphasizes the collaborative nature of mixing, acknowledging the significant influence of producers and musicians on the final mix. He suggests that even after a mixer has a clear vision in their head, being open to changes based on input from others is essential for the mix’s evolution.
The exercises outlined are as follows:
- Balance Considerations: Reflecting on the loudness of drums, bass, vocals, primary, and secondary musical elements.
- Frequency Response: Assessing the brightness, dullness, and bottom end of instruments.
- Panning: Deciding on the spatial distribution of instruments within the mix.
- Compression: Identifying dynamic shifts and sound character alterations through compression.
- Ambience: Evaluating the dryness, room ambience, and perceived spatial distance of instruments.
- Interest: Determining the mix’s focal points and how to enhance them.
These exercises are not exhaustive but serve as a starting point for mixers to develop a more concrete vision of their final mix. Owsinski’s approach underscores the blend of technical acumen and creative foresight needed in music production, offering a structured pathway to refine one’s mixing strategy.
Source: Before You Begin, Visualize Your Mix With These 6 Exercises – Bobby Owsinski’s Music Production Blog
