Setting a rock mix can be confusing at first, but with a little bit of time spent working, anyone could learn to balance a mix.
Knowing where to start with the mix is key, but it is certainly not common knowledge. Then what? Where do you start setting your faders? Even if you’re that far, how do you effectively pan the mix?
Well there are no right or wrong answers, but following a loose protocol that can change if need be is game changing.
Keep in mind you are working with a 3D sound space. There are dimensions and lengths just like a room. That is how we perceive sound, so it is necessary to mix and utilize that space.
Start with the drums. Get your drums as loud as you can without clipping. Then match your vocal peak with the peak of the snare track. The drums and the vocals will typically be centered in a rock mix. The vocals need to be competing with the rest of the mix!
The next part would be your bass, I like to have a loud driving bass balanced under the vocal. To do this I make sure that my level is peaking right about the vocals low, the bass and additional instruments are very adjustable to personal taste. However…
If I am mixing a piano or keyboard that isn’t the lead instrument, I usually pan them all far right and far left. This will open up your 3D sound space.
Whatever instrument the singer is playing, I pan slightly off center. This gives a realistic impression of the performance.
What are other unique mixes out there?