In the second episode of our “Don’t Get Ripped Off” series, we explore how mixing and mastering engineers can bring your music to life through clear communication and collaboration. We walk you through shaping a solid vision for your songs, making sure your engineers truly understand your goals, and why even the smallest tweaks matter. Along the way, we highlight the importance of integrity, transparency, and setting clear expectations up front. Our hope is to guide you toward a smoother, more rewarding experience that honors both your artistry and your peace of mind.
Key Topics
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[01:00] Producers vs. Mixing Engineers
Emphasis on hiring specialists for production and mixing to achieve the best results. -
[02:10] Hiring Mixing Engineers
Advice on finding a mixing engineer and the importance of collaborating closely with producers. -
[04:15] Importance of a Clear Vision
Highlighting the necessity of a clear artistic vision before handing off tracks for mixing. -
[05:08] Technical Nature of Mixing
Explaining the technical aspects of mixing and the need for intentionality in sound design. -
[05:56] Conflict in Artistic Vision
How conflicting visions can affect the mixing process and the final outcome. -
[07:53] Specialization in Mixing
The value of working with specialized mixing engineers for a polished final product. -
[08:34] Trust in the Mixing Process
Sharing experiences of artists learning to trust engineers with their vision. -
[09:43] Mix References and Preferences
Providing mix references to convey specific sound preferences effectively. -
[10:09] Subjectivity in Music Mixing
How personal taste influences the perception of mixes across different genres. -
[11:21] Learning from Mixing Experiences
Artists’ realizations about their own preferences after collaborating with engineers. -
[12:51] Language in Music Communication
The importance of using specific terms to articulate mixing ideas and preferences. -
[14:21] Translating Language into Action
How descriptive language guides mixing engineers toward the desired sound. -
[15:08] Experience in Music Language
Encouragement to learn and ask for guidance in music terminology. -
[15:31] Coffee Tasting Analogy
Using tasting notes to describe subjective nuances in both coffee and mixing. -
[16:24] Mix One Expectations
Why artists shouldn’t panic over the first mix and how small tweaks can align it with their vision. -
[17:00] Understanding Mix Changes
Recognizing how changing one element can affect the overall sound, reinforcing the need for clear communication. -
[19:44] Producer and Engineer Collaboration
The interplay between producers and mixing engineers, and how poor production can complicate mixing. -
[21:35] Growth Through Feedback
How producers and engineers can help each other improve through constructive criticism. -
[22:29] Mix vs. Mastering Differences
Clarifying the distinct roles of mixing and mastering in music production. -
[25:06] Mastering for Multiple Devices
Ensuring a final master sounds great across various playback devices. -
[30:20] Analog vs. Digital Mixing
Comparing analog gear with digital options and how both can achieve high-quality results. -
[31:53] Integrity in Pricing
Discussing the importance of transparent pricing from mixing engineers. -
[31:57] Revision Limits
Setting clear boundaries on the number of mix revisions to avoid misunderstandings. -
[32:12] Additional Costs for Changes
Addressing potential fees for new elements or changes introduced during the mixing process. -
[32:21] Understanding Deliverables
Clarifying what deliverables are and why artists should request them upfront. -
[32:54] Challenges with Late Requests
Highlighting the problems that arise when additional deliverables are requested long after mixing concludes. -
[33:43] Vision for Deliverables
Underscoring the need for a clear, upfront vision about desired deliverables. -
[34:07] Passion for Mixing
Expressing enthusiasm for the artistic significance of mixing.
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