Mixing and mastering

Mixing involves adjusting and combining individual tracks into a stereo or multichannel format, a.k.a. the mix. Mastering involves processing your mix into its final form so that it's ready for distribution, which may include transitioning and sequencing the songs.

1. How do you properly mix and master?
2. Can you mix while mastering?
3. What comes first mixing or mastering?
4. How important is mixing and mastering?

How do you properly mix and master?

Here's a summary of the steps you'll need to take when you master your mix:

1. Optimize your listening space.
2. Finish your mix (to sound mastered).
3. Check the levels.
4. Bounce down your stereo track.
5. Take a break (of at least a day).
6. Create a new project and import your references.
7. Listen for the first time (and take notes).

Can you mix while mastering?

– if a mix needs only some little overall tweaks in mastering: the mix is OK for a separate mastering. – but these little overall tweaks can be also inserted in the master channel while mixing. – if a lot has to be done in separate mastering: the mix is not ready.

What comes first mixing or mastering?

Basically, mixing is the step before mastering that involves adjusting and combining individual tracks together to form a stereo audio file after mixdown. The stereo file is then mastered, which ensures that the various songs are clearly polished and form a cohesive whole on an album.

How important is mixing and mastering?

By mixing and mastering your tracks, you are making sure your music sounds the best that it can on all speakers, platforms, media formats and devices. To stand out you simply have to be the best. You have mere seconds to grab the listener's attention before they skip the song and forget you.