Our goal when mixing should always be to create balance. Yet this is one of the most looked over aspects of mixing. I know because I look over it all the time! Before we ever touch a mix, we need to ask ourselves, "How am I going to create balance in this mix?" If we start there, it will guide the rest of the mixing process for us.
What does it mean to create balance in a mix?
Creating balance in a mix simply means getting the tracks to sit nicely together. Everything you do from EQ to compression should be with the intentional goal of creating balance. Now this is not the same as trying to get everything to stand out in the mix. That is a mistake. If you've got a decent number of tracks, most likely you aren't going to be able to have every track stand out. You're going to have to let some tracks take a back seat. And this is a good thing! We often times try so hard to get every track up front and center that none of them get up front in center. Instead, pick tracks that you think carry the song. Maybe vocals and lead guitar. Let those tracks shine up front, and then balance them out with each other.
How do you create balance in a mix?
This is where all of our fun tools come in handy. With balance in mind, you won't end up sitting down with an EQ or compressor not having any idea of what you want to do. Instead, you'll know that your goal is to create balance with the other tracks. With EQ, this means cutting or boosting certain frequencies to help other tracks stand out. With compression, this may mean using a side-chain to help a kick and bass play nicely together. With creative effects, this may mean using a reverb to give a track a distant sound. The possibilities go on and on.
As you can see, creating balance is crucial to having a good mix. It will not only improve your mixes but will also help you stay focused and become more efficient when mixing.
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