Production Glossary
Mixing
Mixing, in the recording of audio, is a method that takes multiple recordings and merges them together into one or two channels. The process includes the altering of the sound’s dynamics and frequencies, and provides the opportunity for special effects to be added as well. Mixing is performed in the studio while an album is being created. A special technician, the mix engineer, is trained in the operation of equipment specific to mixing, such as a DAW (digital audio workstation) and sound boards.Mixing as a technique began around the same time as the 8-track recorder, which was in the 1960s. The advent of multi-track tape machines made audio mixing possible and in some cases necessary.
The process of mixing has three main elements, all made possible through the use of a mixing console. They are processing, mixing, and routing. Mixing also performs specific actions to alter audio. These actions are done through the use of outboard gear and plug-ins. Outboard gear is utilized when dealing with analog signals, and plug-ins alter digital signals. Both of these devices allow for processors and effects to be added to the recorded material. Examples of effects are delays and reverb. Processors commonly employ equalizers, faders, gates, compressors, and pan pots to achieve the desired outcome of the mix engineer.
