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Tag: checklist

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Mixing Checklist

When your mix is nearly complete, use this mixing checklist to ensure it meets industry standards and sounds its best:

  1. Balance:
    • Check the balance of individual tracks in the mix.
    • Ensure no instruments are overpowering others.
  2. Panning:
    • Review the panning positions of instruments for a balanced stereo image.
    • Use panning to create separation and depth.
  3. Frequency Balance:
    • Verify that no frequencies are overly dominant or lacking in the mix.
    • Use EQ to address any imbalances.
  4. Dynamics Control:
    • Apply compression and limiting to control dynamics.
    • Ensure consistency without over-compression.
  5. Reverb and Delay:
    • Evaluate the use of reverb and delay for spatial enhancement.
    • Adjust wet/dry mix to create depth without overwhelming the mix.
  6. Automation:
    • Implement automation for volume, panning, and effect parameters.
    • Enhance the mix’s dynamics and transitions.
  7. Clarity and Separation:
    • Ensure each instrument has its sonic space in the mix.
    • Use EQ, panning, and level adjustments for separation.
  8. Mono Compatibility:
    • Check the mix in mono to ensure it translates well on all playback systems.
    • Address phase issues if detected.
  9. Reference Listening:
    • Compare the mix to reference tracks in a similar genre.
    • Match the tonal and dynamic qualities of professional mixes.
  10. Check Phase:
    • Review phase coherence between multi-miked instruments (e.g., drums).
    • Use phase inversion or alignment tools as needed.
  11. Final EQ and Compression:
    • Make subtle final EQ and compression adjustments to enhance the overall sound.
    • Avoid over-processing in the final stages.
  12. Level Matching:
    • Ensure consistent perceived loudness throughout the mix.
    • Use LUFS metering to match loudness levels if required.
  13. Bounce or Export:
    • Prepare the mix for final export or mastering.
    • Ensure proper file format, bit depth, and sample rate.
  14. Listen on Multiple Systems:
    • Listen to the mix on different playback devices (e.g., headphones, monitors, car stereo).
    • Make any necessary adjustments for different listening environments.
  15. Feedback and Revision:
    • Seek feedback from trusted ears or collaborators.
    • Make revisions based on feedback and personal evaluation.

Remember that mixing is both an art and a science, and personal preferences play a significant role. Use this checklist as a guide, but trust your ears and creative instincts when making final decisions in the mixing process.

Download a free mixing checklist to place it on your desk

I’ve created multiple checklists and cheat sheets over time and you can now get free access to all of them for a limited time. It includes:

  • 7-Step Mix Guide
  • General EQing Cheat Sheet
  • Recording Checklist
  • Mixing Checklist
  • File Preparation Cheat Sheet
  • Home Studio Necessities
  • Signature Sound Cheat Sheet

All you have to do is signing up with your email address for one of the cheat sheets / checklists. You’ll then get access to the complete library.

Get access here
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Recording Checklist

Before you start recording, run through this recording checklist to ensure a smooth and productive recording session:

Preparation:

  • Song arrangement is finalized.
  • Instruments and equipment are in working condition.
  • Backup storage for recordings is available.

Room Setup:

  • Choose a quiet, acoustically treated room.
  • Position instruments and microphones appropriately.
  • Ensure good lighting for visibility and creative atmosphere.

Microphone Check:

  • Microphones are clean and free from debris.
  • Microphone cables are functioning correctly.
  • Phantom power is provided if needed for condenser microphones.

Recording Checklist continuation:

Headphones and Monitoring:

  • Headphones are comfortable and working.
  • Set comfortable monitoring levels.
  • Verify headphone mixes for all performers.

Instrument Tuning:

  • All instruments are properly tuned.
  • Verify tuning periodically during recording.
  • Use the same tuner for all instruments.

Signal Flow:

  • Check signal path from instrument to recording software.
  • Ensure proper gain staging for each instrument.

Recording Setup:

  • Choose the appropriate recording format and sample rate.
  • Arm tracks for recording and set input levels.
  • Verify recording software settings.

Reference Tracks:

  • Prepare reference tracks for tonal and performance benchmarks.
  • A/B compare recordings with reference tracks if necessary.

Recording Checklist continuation:

Performance:

  • Warm up before recording.
  • Perform multiple takes for comping options.
  • Focus on timing, dynamics, and expression.

Documentation:

  • Keep track of take numbers and notes.
  • Record details of microphone placement.
  • Document any unique settings or effects used during recording.

Backup:

  • Regularly save and backup your recording project.
  • Make additional backups of raw audio files.

Breaks:

  • Take short breaks to prevent fatigue.
  • Listen to reference tracks during breaks for perspective.

Recording Checklist Conclusion

Mixing is so much easier when you have high quality sources to work with. Spend a lot of time to capture really awesome tracks that sounds almost like a finished track. This is all about getting it right at the source. Play with microphone placement a lot, especially when you already know where the instruments should be placed in the mix. You can create a lot of atmosphere already in the recording stage when placing microphones at a place that supports the positioning in the mix.

Download a free recording checklist to place it in your studio

I’ve created multiple checklists and cheat sheets over time and you can now download them all for free for a limited time.

  • Recording Checklist
  • Mixing Checklist
  • General EQing Cheat Sheet
  • 7-Step Mix Guide
  • Home Studio Necessities
  • File Preparation Cheat Sheet
  • Signature Sound Cheat Sheet

All you have to do is signing up with your email address on one of the files and then you’ll automatically get access to these other downloads too.

Get access now!