Into The Lair #5 - All About Reference Mixes! | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR
Using reference tracks can be a helpful technique for mixing, but it may not work for everyone.
Key Insights
- ๐ Headphones are recommended to create an isolated listening environment and negate the sound of the room.
- ๐ฃ Using reference tracks can provide a benchmark for assessing and improving the quality of your mix.
- ๐งก Different reference tracks can help with evaluating specific elements, such as kick drum sound, vocal characteristics, and mid-range tightness.
- ๐ด๏ธ The technique of using reference tracks may not suit everyone's workflow or preferences.
- โ Modifying and adapting these techniques to fit one's style is recommended.
- ๐งโ๐ญ Personal preferences and emotional well-being can also be factors in mixing decisions.
- ๐ The speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting one's own instincts and making critical decisions during the mix process.
Transcript
Read and summarize the transcript of this video on Glasp Reader (beta).
Questions & Answers
Q: Why does the speaker use headphones while mixing?
The speaker uses headphones to eliminate the influence of the room's acoustics and create a more controlled listening environment. The Ultrasone Pro 750 headphones are recommended for their flat and non-fatiguing sound.
Q: What is the technique of using reference tracks for mixing?
Using reference tracks involves comparing your mix to professionally mixed songs to assess the quality and make adjustments. It helps to gauge the emotional elements, kick drum sound, vocal characteristics, and overall balance of your mix.
Q: Is using reference tracks suitable for everyone?
No, using reference tracks may not work for everyone. If hearing something else while mixing influences your own work negatively, this technique may not be suitable for you. It depends on individual preferences and how the brain perceives and processes sound.
Q: What elements does the speaker listen for in reference tracks?
The speaker listens for a variety of elements in reference tracks, including emotional elements, kick drum sound (especially on the 808), mid-range tightness, vocals, apparent level, and instrument placement relative to drums.
Summary & Key Takeaways
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The speaker uses headphones to create an isolated listening environment and recommends the Ultrasone Pro 750 headphones for their flat and non-fatiguing sound.
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The speaker discusses the technique of using reference tracks while mixing, which involves comparing your mix to professionally mixed songs to gauge the quality and make adjustments.
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The speaker listens for various elements in reference tracks, such as the emotional elements, kick drum sound, vocal characteristics, and overall balance.
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