3 Tips to Get A Full Mix!

Each song will always have its own unique characteristics.

But there are still some general rules that you can follow to make things easier.

1. Stay Clean.

When it comes to mixing vocals, the mixing actually starts before the artist steps into the booth. It’s always a great practice to optimize the acoustics in the booth or wherever your artist is recording.

This can include mic placement, setting bass traps, and ensuring that your recording space is as quiet as possible.

I’ve had some terrible recordings in a booth that I custom-built myself because there was a crack in the fiberglass that needed to be repaired.

I’ve also had some amazing recordings in my closet before I could afford to go to a studio. The leather jackets and wool sweaters that were hanging up around the mic actually consensed the sound pretty well, which made for a clean and crisp vocal. Polo and Gucci never sounded so good! LOL

2. Level Up

Once you’ve recorded vocals and finished music production, you’re ready to start mixing, and this starts with getting your levels right.

It really won’t matter how much compression you add to a kick if the volume is already too low. Ensuring that all of our vocals and instruments are level correctly is an easy way to create balance and fullness within a mix.

I can’t tell you how many times I overlooked this crucial step when I was in school. I was so eager to get to the ‘flashier’ parts of the mixing process.

Please understand that leveling is one of the most overlooked components of the mixing process. Don’t be like me and learn the hard way. Make it a habit to ALWAYS check your levels.

3. There’s equity in the EQ

EQing is another way to add fullness to your mix. I’ll often take the lows out of my piano or synths to leave room for my bass when I’m making beats.

I’ll also boost the highs on my hats and percussions at times if the mix calls for it. I was taught to EQ every track after the leveling process. It makes a huge difference and will help to give your mix more space.

4. Precision Panning

Panning, along with EQing will give each track a designated space in your mix. This will create a more pleasant experience for the listener’s ears.

I tend to keep my kick and snares panned dead center to help anchor the track most of the time. I’ll also pan vocal adlibs to create some room.

These are just some of the basics for creating a full mix. There are a ton of other techniques you can apply, but this should help to get you going in the right direction.

Have fun!

DOWNLOAD FREE BEATS HERE!