Introduction to Mixing Techniques and Terms

Jul 27, 2024

Introduction to Mixing

Overview

  • Purpose of Series: Introduce basic mixing terms, techniques, and practices for music making.
  • Goal: Transform sounds step by step to improve audio quality.

Definition of Mixing

  • What is Mixing?
    • Process of ensuring each sound/instrument is audible at the right volume/time/place.
    • Involves:
      • Removing unwanted sounds.
      • Adjusting volume, frequency, dynamics, spatial position using:
        • EQ
        • Compressors
        • Reverbs/Delays

Practical Example: Adjusting Faders

  1. Identify loud sounds (e.g., drums).
  2. Create a bus track for drums:
    • Select free mixer track.
    • Route drum tracks to that bus track.
  3. Adjust levels as needed.

Understanding Decibels (dB)

  • dB Scale: Relative to a maximum volume limit.
  • Formula:
    • 20 * log10(x/y)
    • x = signal level, y = always 1 for digital audio.
  • Key points:
    • Levels < 1 produce negative dB values.
    • Level = 1 produces 0 dB.
    • Levels > 1 yield positive results.

Loudness vs. Decibels

  • Loudness: Psychological perception; Decibels: Physical measure.
  • Use of Loudness Units Full Scale (LUFS) for more accurate loudness measurement.
    • Different averaging methods (momentary, short-term, integrated) apply.
  • Dynamic Range: Difference between lowest and highest peaks.
    • Important for creating musical tension and interest.

Controls in FL Studio

  1. Channel Volume:
    • Adjusts volume before routing to the mixer.
  2. Volume Multiplier:
    • From the miscellaneous tab; extends volume control range.
  3. Mixer Faders:
    • Adjust volume post-effects chain.
  4. Synth Output Level:
    • Controls output for synthesizers.
  5. Gain Plugins:
    • Fine-tunes volume at specific effect points (e.g., Fruity Balance, Fruity Send).

Mixing for Consistency

  • Popular songs have a noticeable downward slope in frequency response (de-emphasize high frequencies, emphasize low).
  • Ideal listening involves matching this slope in your mixes.

Mixing Technique

  • Use noise sample for better mixing practice:
    1. Unroute it from the master track.
    2. Set faders for each element against noise.
    3. Mute noise and unmute all else for a refined mix.

Conclusion

  • Mixing is about balance and crafting your sound.
  • Continually practice and refine your ear for better outcomes.

Resources

  • Check video info for relevant links and manual references.