Why I Don't Mix 100% ITB

In this video, I dive into the reasons why I choose not to mix entirely in the box. While digital mixing offers incredible convenience and flexibility, I find that a hybrid approach—combining both digital and analog tools—gives me the best of both worlds. Analog gear brings a warmth, depth, and character to the mix that’s hard to replicate with plugins alone. From the subtle nuances of a vintage compressor to the unmistakable saturation of a tape machine, these tools add a unique color to the sound that helps my mixes stand out. On the other hand, digital tools provide precision, recallability, and the ability to work efficiently on complex projects. By blending these two approaches, I can achieve a sound that's both polished and organic, modern yet timeless. Join me as I discuss the benefits of hybrid mixing!

Macro Guide For Mixing A Song

I often get asked how I go about mixing a song. The process is very fluid and I am constantly bouncing back and forth between instrument groups. Here is a macro guide on how I approach a mix from a linear standpoint.

1. Begin by organizing your project. This means importing all of your audio files into your digital audio workstation (DAW) and arranging them in the order that you want them to play in. Make sure that all of the tracks are properly labeled and that you have a clear understanding of the structure of the song.

2. Next, you'll want to set up your mixing workspace. This includes adjusting the layout of your DAW to suit your needs and setting up any hardware devices that you might be using, such as a mixing console or outboard effects processors.

3. The next step is to address any issues with the individual tracks. This includes cleaning up any noise or unwanted sounds, fixing any timing issues, and applying any necessary effects or processing to individual tracks.

4. Once the individual tracks are sounding good, it's time to start balancing their levels and panning them in the stereo field. Use your ears and a good set of monitors to adjust the levels of each track until they are balanced with one another and sit well in the mix.

5. The next step is to add any necessary processing to the mix as a whole. This might include using an equalizer to shape the overall frequency balance of the mix, adding compression to even out the levels of the various instruments, or using reverb and delay to create a sense of space.

6. As you work, be sure to take breaks and listen to the mix on a variety of different systems. This will help you get a better sense of how the mix will translate to different listening environments and allow you to make any necessary adjustments.

7. Finally, once you are happy with the mix, it's time to bounce down the final version and save it. Be sure to save multiple copies and label them clearly so that you have a backup if anything goes wrong.

Mixing a song can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with a little patience and practice, you can learn to create professional-sounding mixes that will impress your listeners!

Which DAW Is Right For You?

As a mix engineer & producer choosing the right digital audio workstation (DAW) is a crucial step in defining your workflow. There are so many options out there, and it can be overwhelming to try and figure out which one is right for you. In this blog post, we'll go over some things to consider when picking a DAW, as well as some of the top options on the market.

1. Consider your needs: The first thing to think about is what you need from your DAW. Do you need a lot of virtual instruments and effects? Do you need advanced editing capabilities? Make a list of your top priorities, and use it to narrow down your options.

2. Look at compatibility: Another important factor to consider is compatibility. You'll want to make sure that your DAW is compatible with your computer's operating system, as well as any other software or hardware that you use.

3. Think about your budget: DAWs range in price from free to several hundred dollars. While it's not always necessary to spend a lot of money on a DAW, you'll want to make sure you get one that has the features you need.

4. Read reviews: Before making a final decision, it's a good idea to read reviews from other users. This can give you a sense of the pros and cons of different DAWs, and help you make an informed decision.

Now that we've gone over some things to consider, let's take a look at some of the top DAWs on the market:

1. Pro Tools: Pro Tools is a professional-grade DAW that is popular in the music industry. It has a wide range of advanced features, including support for a variety of plugins and virtual instruments.

2. Logic Pro: Logic Pro is a DAW developed by Apple that is popular among electronic music producers. It has a wide range of virtual instruments and effects, as well as advanced editing capabilities.

3. Ableton Live: Ableton Live is a DAW that is particularly well-suited for electronic music production. It has a range of virtual instruments and effects, as well as a unique workflow that allows for real-time performance and improvisation.

4. FL Studio: FL Studio is a DAW that is popular among electronic music producers. It has a wide range of virtual instruments and effects, as well as advanced editing capabilities.

Overall, the right DAW for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Take the time to research different options and consider the factors listed above, and you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect DAW for your mix engineering needs.