My Advanced Techniques & Tips for Mixing and Mastering

As an audio engineer, I’ve dedicated countless hours to refining my mixing and mastering skills. Through years of experience and experimentation, I’ve developed a set of advanced techniques that consistently yield professional, polished results.

This article shares some of the rare and nuanced methods I’ve honed, offering insights into frequency management, dynamic control, and mastering tips.

Discover my workflow and how I use stereo imaging tools effectively, how I match loudness levels accurately, and employ dithering to preserve audio quality.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive view of my advanced strategies that you can apply to improve your audio productions, or mixing and mastering.

So, let’s explore some of my advanced mixing and mastering techniques that will help transform your tracks into professional masterpieces:

1. Advanced Frequency Techniques

• Subharmonic Synthesis: This is one of my go-to techniques for enhancing the low-end. By generating subharmonics, you can add depth and power to bass lines and kick drums. I often use Waves R-Bass Plugin or the Fabfilter Saturn Plugin. These tools help create a richer low-end without causing muddiness.
• Resonance Control: Problematic resonant frequencies can ruin an otherwise great mix. I use narrow EQ cuts to reduce these resonances, particularly in the mid-range where they tend to be most troublesome. FabFilter Pro-Q3 dynamic EQ is fantastic for this because it only reduces the resonance when it becomes a problem.
• Harmonic Excitation: Adding harmonics can bring out the richness of a track. I often use iZotope Ozone’s Exciter or SoundToys Decapitator to add subtle harmonic content to vocals or instruments, making them stand out in the mix.
• Mid-Side EQ: Mid-side EQ allows you to treat the center and sides of your stereo field independently. For example, I might brighten the sides of a mix while keeping the mid frequencies warm and natural. This can enhance the width without making the mix harsh.

2. Advanced Level Techniques

• Parallel Compression: Parallel compression, also known as New York compression, is a powerful technique that adds punch and sustain to your mix. I blend a heavily compressed signal with the original, uncompressed signal. This approach maintains the natural dynamics while enhancing the body and presence, especially in drums and vocals. It’s a subtle effect but can make a big difference.

Also see: 5 Best Compressor Plugins for Vocal Parallel Compression

• Automation for Dynamic Control: Automation is an essential tool for precise dynamic control within a mix. Instead of relying solely on compressors, I use volume automation to manage dynamics more naturally. In this way, I can ensure that vocals and other key elements sit perfectly in the mix from start to finish.
• Dynamic EQ and Multiband Compression: I use dynamic EQ to target problem frequencies that only appear at certain times, such as sibilance in vocals. Dynamic EQ applies EQ changes dynamically, only when needed, which helps maintain the natural sound of the instrument I mix.

3. Mastering Tips

• Stereo Imaging: Careful use of stereo wideners can add a sense of space to a mix. iZotope Ozone Imager or Waves S1 Stereo Imager are some of the best stereo imaging plugins I trust, but I always use them sparingly to avoid phase issues. Proper stereo imaging can create a wider and more open soundstage, especially on mids and highs, making the mix feel more spacious and lively.
• Loudness Matching: When comparing my masters to reference tracks, I match their loudness levels. This helps me make accurate judgments about tonal balance and dynamics without being misled by volume differences and I’m confident that my master sounds consistent across different playback systems.
• Limiter Settings: The final limiter should be set to avoid audible distortion. I usually go with the Pro-L2 by Fabfilter and I aim for no more than 2-3 dB of gain reduction. This prevents audible distortion and avoids the pumping artifacts that can occur with more aggressive limiting.
• Dither Usage: Applying dither when downsampling is crucial for maintaining audio quality. Dithering reduces quantization errors that occur during the conversion from 24-bit to 16-bit audio. I always apply dither as the last step in the mastering process. This helps preserve the detail and clarity of the final master.

4. Reference and Calibration

• Room Calibration: My studio is equipped with bass traps, diffusers, and absorbers to manage reflections and standing waves. This foundational treatment helps create a balanced acoustic environment. I use Sonarworks Reference software to further flatten the frequency response of my monitors. The software involves a calibration microphone and a series of test tones to map the frequency response of the room.
• Reference Tracks: Throughout the mixing and mastering stages, I regularly compare my work to these reference tracks. This helps ensure that my mixes are competitive and meet industry standards. To make accurate comparisons, I match the loudness levels of my mixes to the reference tracks.

By applying these mixing and mastering tips and techniques, you can significantly enhance the quality of your sound. The key is to use these practices judiciously and always trust your ears.

Also see: 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Mastering Your Own Mixes

If you’re looking for professional mixing and mastering services, I offer a range of solutions tailored to meet your needs. With a background in advanced audio techniques and a commitment to high-quality production, I ensure your music sounds its best.