In the video above, Joe Gilder shares five significant lessons learned from critiquing over 400 people’s music mixes. These insights aim to help viewers improve their own mixing skills. Here is a detailed summary of the key points discussed:
- Get it Right at the Source:
- The most critical lesson is to ensure high-quality recordings before mixing. Many mixers ignore this, resulting in mediocre mixes. The goal should be to achieve tracks that sound amazing before any mixing, making the mixing process smoother and more effective.
- Avoid Boring Productions:
- Even technically good recordings can be boring if the production lacks dynamics and variation. The creator emphasizes the importance of arranging elements to keep the listener engaged, using techniques like changing instrument layers and dynamics throughout the song.
- Basic Level Problems:
- A common mistake is incorrect volume levels within the mix. Often, a simple adjustment of the fader can resolve issues that people mistakenly try to fix with complex techniques like compression or EQ. Ensuring correct volume levels from the start can significantly improve the mix.
- Frequency Balance Issues:
- Maintaining a balanced frequency spectrum is crucial. The creator breaks down frequencies into five buckets (lows, low mids, mids, upper mids, and highs) and explains that problems usually arise when one bucket is too dominant. Addressing these imbalances can make the mix more pleasant to the ear.
- Vocals are the Biggest Challenge:
- Mixing vocals is particularly challenging because they need to be prominent yet pleasant, balanced across frequencies, and dynamically controlled. The creator emphasizes the importance of understanding the interaction between different processing tools (like EQ, compression, and de-essing) to achieve a professional vocal mix.
This video provides valuable insights into common mixing mistakes and practical advice on how to avoid them, helping both novice and experienced mixers improve their craft.
