2010, July 21
Mixing with Depth
It has become apparent, largely to my own ears, that my mixes are too shallow. To many, this is one of the principal factors between a mix sounding amateurish and professional; professional mixes tend to envelope the listener in a three-dimensional environment and transport the senses to a different time and place; whereas the amateur mixer (myself included) tend to present a flatter and two-dimensional representation of the song. Well, acknowledgement of the problem is a good starting point, right? So where to now?
Well googling this has brought out a few articles; Mixing with Depth and How to Create Depth in a Mix.
The articles point out some previously known techniques. I guess the main lesson here is to apply these techniques in a more systematic and structured way, paying closer attention to the depth in professional mixes. I think I have previously attempted to make a strong mix by making the drums very dry along with most instruments – I guess I’ve been reverb shy. Best to up this usage in future.
Time tonight to continue the exploration of these techniques.
Ask Glenn to help. He is awesome.