Compression evens the dynamic range of audio. It is most commonly used on guitars, vocals, bass guitars and some parts of the drum kit such as the kick, snare and overheads.
Threshold sets the point in which the compression kicks in.
Attack is how fast the compression starts to work once above the threshold.
Release is how quick the compression is released once it goes below the threshold.
Ratio is the amount of compression used.
Gain reduction shows how much compression is being used.
Gain makes up for lost volume.
What is mixing and why do we need to do it?
Mixing enhances the recording. This can be done by either adding effects such as distortion, delay wab and chorus, or through EQ by changing the frequency, dynamics and by adding panning. Mixing also balances volumes within the track.
Mixing a track gives you the chance to make it more unique and add creativity and also gets the track ready for release.
What are the different tools available when mixing?
- Audio editing
- Volumes/faders
- Panning
- Automation
- Dynamic processing (compressors, gates, limiters)
- Reverb
- Chorus/phaser/distortion
Where to start
The best way to start when mixing is getting Logic set up so you can work efficiently. This may include;
- setting a particular colour/icon to different instruments
- making sure every track is named correctly
- carefully cleaning up the audio so any extraneous sound is removed
- start with a basic mix of the tracks using the mixer
Tips
- Sorting out the low end (e.g. bass etc) is key to a successful mix
- Balance the kick drum and bass guitar while removing any unwanted frequencies
- Using EQ and panning can often be a better way of balancing than volume changes
- Don’t add too much reverb, it can make it sound undefined
- Enhance the mix before adding in any creativity
- It is best to listen to the final mix on different systems