Mixing FAQ
What is Mixing?
Mixing involves taking separately recorded and edited tracks and blending them together. This process uses techniques like equalization, compression, leveling, panning, and adding effects to create a stereo (or occasionally mono) track that's all set for mastering.
How long will it take to Mix my album?
This question is pretty tricky to tackle. It really hinges on how many tracks there are, the total number of songs, how different they are from each other, and their lengths. I usually estimate about a day for each song, but I often need to make some revisions. If the feedback is straightforward, I can usually get through a whole album's worth of revisions in about a day.
How much will Mixing my album cost?
Mixing prices are billed on a daily basis for an 8-hour session. The time it takes can vary based on how many tracks you have and the overall complexity and length of the album. After we check out your tracks, we can give you a better estimate for the turnaround time, not including any revisions.
What to do before Mixing
1
Edit Audio Files
All files need to be edited before they're transferred to us for mixing. Are the tempo, rhythm, and intonation accurate?
2
Check Audio Files
Ensure that your files are not clipping and that they have a few decibels of headroom (about 3 dB, roughly).
3
Before Exporting
Ensure that all files start from the correct starting point, at the same sample rate and bit-rate they were recoded at. Be sure that your files are in .wav or .aiff format.
4
Name Audio Files
Name your files clearly, such as Guitar 1, Guitar 2, Bass Guitar, Snare, Lead Vocal, etc.
Additional files to include if available
- Tempo Tracks: MIDI files or Reaper sessions
- Drum Triggers: MIDI info & Trigger audio
- Clean Tracks: DI as .aiff or .wav files
