Mixing Process in Logic Pro X

Introduction

• Overview of the mixing process in Logic Pro X.
• Tutorial includes key plugins and mixing workflow specific to Logic Pro X.
• Free Logic Pro X cheat sheet available with keyboard shortcuts and tips on stock plugins.

Starting the Mix

• Begin with a new project or alternative, import edited audio.
• Export tracks as audio files if mixing for someone else.
• Organize tracks into neat regions using Command J.
• Commit to completed editing/composing phases to avoid endless tweaking.
• Import audio, add and organize channel names, reorder tracks to preferred order.
• Change channel images and colors for easier navigation.

Setting Up Structure and Sub Mix

• Add structure markers for easy navigation using numeric keypad.
• Use various speeds to quickly play through the song and add markers.
• Send tracks to subgroups, set up sub mixes to keep reference tracks unaffected by effects.
• Compare mixes to professionally recorded tracks.

Balancing and Initial Setup

• Gain staging to ensure tracks are at -18dB (ideal mixing level).
• Create a balanced static mix with volume faders, identifying key focus elements.
• Use aggressive panning for initial balancing.

EQ and Compression

• Channel EQ: Understanding frequency spectrum, low, mid, and high frequencies.
• Types of EQ: Band, Shelf, and Filters.
• Linear Phase EQ for master buss, Match EQ, Single Band EQ.
• Compression: Understanding compressor parameters (threshold, ratio, attack, release).
• Different compressor models in Logic.
• De-Esser for reducing vocal sibilance, Envelope for transient shaping, Expander for noise reduction.

Reverb and Delay

• Types of Reverb: SilverVerb, PlatinumVerb, EnVerb, Space Designer.
• Delay types: Echo, Stereo Delay, Tape Delay, Sample Delay for phase adjustment.

Advanced Mixing Techniques

• Stereo panning for added space after mono EQ and compression.
• Exciting the mix with saturation (Distortion, Exciter), Modulation effects (Chorus, Flanger, Phaser).
• Using Logic's amp simulator for tone shaping.

Additional Plugins

• Metering tools for analyzing frequency and phase.
• Specialized plugins like Exciter and SubBass for enhancing specific frequency ranges.
• Stereo Spread used cautiously to avoid phase issues.

Conclusion

• Use plugins creatively and subtly to enhance mix quality.
• Experiment with presets and customize for best results.
• The outlined workflow in Logic Pro X can serve as a detailed guide for mixing.