The mixing process can be confusing at first. People always ask me, “When should I EQ? When and how do I compress?” It’s like cooking chicken. Yep, it’s like chicken. When you cook chicken, first, you clean the chicken. Then you flavor it. Let me simplify the process for you.
The Dichotomous Mixing Approach: Surgical Processing and Flavoring
In our approach to mixing, we embrace a dichotomous methodology that divides the mixing process into two distinct phases: surgical processing and flavoring. This strategic workflow allows us to address technical and corrective aspects before diving into the creative realm of sonic enhancement. Let’s explore each phase, along with examples and the gear utilized for each purpose.
Surgical Processing: Precision and Correction
Overview: Surgical processing involves precise and corrective actions aimed at cleaning, fixing, and sculpting individual elements within the mix. The focus is on addressing technical imperfections and achieving a solid foundation before introducing creative elements.
Examples of Surgical Processing:
Equalization (EQ):
Identify and cut problematic frequencies.
Boost or cut to address tonal imbalances and create a clean frequency spectrum.
Dynamic Range Control:
Apply compression to control dynamic fluctuations.
Use multiband compression to address specific frequency ranges.
Phase Alignment:
Ensure proper phase relationships between multi-miked instruments.
Correct phase issues to prevent cancellation and enhance clarity.
Gear for Surgical Processing:
Precision EQ:
Example: FabFilter Pro-Q3.
Dynamic Processors:
Example: Waves SSL G-Master Buss Compressor.
Phase Correction Tools:
Example: iZotope RX Phase Correction module.
It’s like cooking chicken. Yep, it’s like chicken. When you cook chicken, first, you clean the chicken. Then you flavor (seasoning) it.
Seasoning the Mix: Color, Character, and Tone Enhancement
Overview: After achieving a clean and balanced foundation, the flavoring phase focuses on introducing character, color, and tonal enhancements to elevate the mix creatively. This stage allows for artistic expression and the infusion of unique sonic qualities.
Examples of Flavoring:
Analog Emulation:
Introduce analog-style saturation or tape emulation.
Add harmonics for warmth and character.
Colorful EQ:
Use EQ to shape the overall tone and color of instruments.
Add character by boosting specific frequencies.
Creative Effects:
Incorporate modulation effects like chorus or flanger.
Experiment with reverb and delay to add space and depth.
Gear for Flavoring:
Analog Saturation Emulation:
Example: Slate Digital Virtual Tape Machines.
Colorful EQ/Preamp Emulation:
Example: Universal Audio API 550A EQ.
Creative Effects Processors:
Example: Soundtoys Decapitator.
By adopting a dichotomous mixing approach, we ensure that the technical aspects of a mix are addressed with surgical precision before introducing creative and flavorful enhancements. This methodology allows us to create a balanced, polished, and sonically rich mix that stands out with its unique character and clarity. Through the strategic use of digital and analog tools, we bring a meticulous and artistic touch to the mixing process.
Ready to take your mixing skills to the next level?
Learn how to mix with private lessons or enroll in our Artist2Engineer online course at our music production school. Gain the knowledge and confidence to create professional mixes that stand out!
