Mixing Essentials Checklist

Mixing is notoriously easy to do in perpetuity. Hence the saying: “a mix is never finished, only abandoned,” and relatable memes of agonizing over .1 dB changes at 4:00 in the morning.

I aim to streamline the mixing process by always focusing on the essentials: from the first time I listen, throughout the mixing process, and when assessing whether the mix is ready to share.

Here’s the checklist of mixing essentials I use to keep myself on track:

1. Focused Lead: the lead element always sounds and feels like the lead

2. Dynamic Balance: levels and compression facilitate the intended balance of energy and emotional impact

3. Tonal Balance: each element occupies its intended zone in the spectrum, and no element distracts by being too bright, dark, or harsh

4. Stereo Image: panning and width place elements in the spaces where they add the intended energy

5. Spatial Placement: reverbs and delays intentionally place elements in a space

6. Contrast: changes and differences are used to accentuate all of the techniques above

7. Tuning: vocals and other instruments are tuned to taste

8. Clean: no unintended distractions (noises, clicks, pops, errant notes, etc.)

If I feel good about all of the above, then the mix is ready to share with my client. It’s time for us to talk about revisions and what’s needed to get the mix across the finish line.