Busting the 5 Mixing Myths

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Myth #1: Clipping in the DAW is Bad
   1. Understanding Clipping in the DAW
   2. Ways to Prevent Clipping
3. Myth #2: Stock Plugins Can't Produce Professional Mixes
   1. The Importance of Knowledge and Skills
   2. Examples of Professional Mixes with Stock Plugins
4. Myth #3: Mastering Your Song to -14 LUFS
   1. The Misconception about LUFS Levels
   2. The Impact of Dynamic Range
5. Myth #4: Mixing Exclusively in Mono
   1. Utilizing the Stereo Space for Spatial Audio
   2. Monitoring in Mono vs. Mixing in Stereo
6. Myth #5: Vocal Compression Requires Equal Input and Output Levels
   1. Understanding Vocal Compression
   2. The Benefits of Manual Makeup Gain Adjustment
7. Conclusion

Introduction

In the world of music production, there are numerous myths and misconceptions that can hinder the quality of your mixes and masters. In this article, we will debunk five prevalent mixing myths and provide you with the knowledge and techniques to Create stunning mixes. From understanding clipping in the DAW to debunking the belief that stock plugins can't produce professional mixes, we will cover a range of topics that will elevate your sound. So let's dive in and discover how to achieve exceptional mixes.

Myth #1: Clipping in the DAW is Bad

Understanding Clipping in the DAW

One common myth is that clipping in the digital audio workstation (DAW) is always a bad thing. However, the reality is that clipping in the DAW does not necessarily have a negative impact on your mix. In the DAW, we have infinite headroom, which means we can find ways to work around clipping without affecting the overall quality of the mix.

Ways to Prevent Clipping

To prevent clipping while still pushing the limits of your mix, you can utilize techniques such as bussing signals to an AUX and utilizing VCA faders. By doing so, you create headroom and ensure that the final output of your mix won't clip. It's important to be mindful of clipping when using plugins, as some plugins may introduce artifacts and distortion when the signal is clipped. However, with proper gain staging and plugin management, clipping can be effectively managed without compromising the mix's quality.

Myth #2: Stock Plugins Can't Produce Professional Mixes

A commonly held misconception is that stock plugins cannot produce professional-level mixes. Many believe that investing in high-end third-party plugins is essential for achieving professional sound quality. However, the truth is that the tools You use are not the sole determinant of a professional mix. Your knowledge, skills, and techniques play a significant role in achieving exceptional results.

Don't underestimate the power of stock plugins. They are designed to meet the needs of most music producers and engineers. In fact, you can create radio-ready songs using only stock plugins, as demonstrated in the following example mix. [Highlight the section]

[Example mix using only stock plugins]

As you can hear, the mix sounds professional and polished, showcasing the capabilities of stock plugins. So, before investing in expensive third-party plugins, explore the possibilities of your stock plugins and enhance your skills to create outstanding mixes.

Myth #3: Mastering Your Song to -14 LUFS

A common misunderstanding in the audio community is the belief that songs should be mastered to a specific loudness target of -14 LUFS for streaming platforms. While it's true that streaming platforms adjust the loudness of tracks when they are played, the -14 LUFS recommendation is not a hard and fast rule.

When a song is streamed, streaming platforms automatically adjust the loudness Based on their programmed loudness normalization algorithms. This means that all tracks on a platform will be adjusted to a similar loudness level, regardless of the -14 LUFS target. Additionally, peak calculation plays a significant role in determining loudness levels on streaming platforms.

It's important to consider the dynamic range of your music when mastering. A master with a higher dynamic range can sound better than a heavily compressed one. Peaks in a dynamic master can be effectively utilized, providing a better listening experience for the audience. While the loudness target for your song may vary depending on the platform, focusing on achieving a balanced and dynamic mix should be the priority.

Myth #4: Mixing Exclusively in Mono

Mixing exclusively in mono was a common practice in the early days of audio production when stereo was limited. However, in today's world of spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, mixing solely in mono is not recommended.

While monitoring in mono can help identify issues with phase cancellation and balance, mixing in stereo allows us to utilize the space and create depth in our mixes. Panning, stereo delays, stereo effects, and reverbs are essential tools in creating a wide and immersive soundstage. Mixing in stereo opens up a plethora of creative possibilities, allowing you to fully utilize the stereo space.

That being said, it can be beneficial to periodically monitor your mix in mono to ensure that it translates well on systems that don't have stereo capabilities. This can help detect any imbalances and ensure that the Core elements of your mix are well-defined and impactful.

Myth #5: Vocal Compression Requires Equal Input and Output Levels

A misconception that has gained traction recently is the belief that vocal compression requires equal input and output levels. Some claim that comparing compressed vocals at the same level as the dry signal is essential to understanding the impact of compression. However, this is a misunderstanding of the purpose and function of vocal compression.

Vocal compression is employed to control the dynamic range of vocal performances. When working with raw vocals, there is often a wide range of dynamics that need to be tamed. Compression allows us to bring those dynamics under control, ensuring that the vocals sit consistently within the mix.

Rather than striving for equal input and output levels, the primary objective is to achieve a controlled and balanced vocal sound. This may require adjusting the makeup gain to ensure that the compressed vocals Blend seamlessly with the rest of the mix. Auto-gain features on compressors can be helpful, but manually adjusting the makeup gain allows for a more nuanced and tailored compression sound.

In conclusion, understanding the purpose and function of vocal compression is crucial. By grasping the concept and exploring various techniques, you can achieve optimal vocal compression that elevates your mix.

Conclusion

In this article, we have debunked five prevalent mixing myths that hinder the quality of your mixes and masters. By understanding the misconceptions surrounding clipping in the DAW, stock plugins, mastering levels, mono mixing, and vocal compression, you can elevate the quality of your productions.

Remember, the tools you use are just a small part of the equation. Your knowledge, skills, and techniques have a significant impact on the final outcome. Embrace the possibilities of your stock plugins, experiment, and continually enhance your understanding of audio production. By debunking these myths, you can create stunning mixes that stand out in today's competitive music industry.