What Is The Difference Between Mixing And Mastering?
The terms mixing and mastering are often inaccurately bundled into the same phrase, becoming inextricably linked without any differentiation. These are very different processes and it is useful to understand the difference. Let's shed some light on the processors and unveil the dark arts of mixing and mastering.
MIXING
Mixing is the process of balancing and blending multiple audio sources (tracks or stems), such as vocals and individual instruments, into one cohesive sound. This mix is then printed or bounced down into a stereo file to be sent to mastering.
Mixing Typically Involves:
Level-balancing instruments and vocals according to priority and taste.
Equalising vocals and instruments to blend well so each element can be heard clearly.
Panning sound sources to create space, width and movement.
Applying compression to unruly peak transients to smoothen out the audio.
Adding effects, such as Reverb and Delay, to add sparkle, depth, movement, and excitement.
Adding saturation for punch, fullness, and warmth.
MASTERING
Mastering is the process of taking the stereo audio file and optimising the audio for the final release. This includes preparing the final file for its intended distribution medium, for example, streaming platforms, Mp3, CD, vinyl, or film, and so on.
Mastering Typically Involves:
Evening out the EQ of the overall mix to create a consistent and uniform tone for better translation to different sound systems and headphones.
Controlling the low end for a solid foundation.
Applying dynamic EQ to control pokey frequencies.
Applying gentle compression to control the mix and create energy in the track
Adding stereo width.
Applying clipping either for its desired sound or to trim peak transients, which, will enable a louder master.
Applying gain and limiting to boost the overall volume of your track to the desired LUFS Levels.
Packing the final stereo file into the required files for it's intended playback system, for example, 16/44.1 for CD and streaming.
What Does Mastering Sound Like?
Hear before and after, A/B audio examples of my work below.
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