1st Edition

Mix It! Understanding and Controlling the Mix Process

By Ian Corbett Copyright 2026
374 Pages 98 B/W Illustrations
by Focal Press

374 Pages 98 B/W Illustrations
by Focal Press

374 Pages 98 B/W Illustrations
by Focal Press

Mix It! Understanding and Controlling the Mix Process is a comprehensive textbook designed to introduce the art of mixing music to beginners and novices. Starting with essential theory, this book explores aesthetics, the mix process, and associated tools, with a reader-friendly balance of theory, instruction, and practical application. With chapters covering amplitude balance, equalisation,... Read more

1. What is a Good Mix?  2. Essential Audio Theory  3. How to Listen  4. Amplitude Balance  5. Frequency Balance  6. EQ in Use  7. The Stereo Image  8. Compression and Limiting  9. Compression in Use  10. Delay, Reverb, and Effects  11. Expansion and Gating  12. More Advanced Processing  13. Mixing 1  14. Editing  15. Mixing 2  16. When Is a Mix Finished?  17. Artistic Intent  18. Mixing Immersive Audio  19. 'Do It Yourself' Mastering  20. Next Steps…

Biography

Ian Corbett, originally from the UK, is currently a Professor and Coordinator of Audio Engineering and Music Technology at Kansas City Kansas Community College, USA. He also owns and operates off-beat-open-hats LLC, which provides location recording and sound reinforcement to clients around the Kansas City area. Active in the Audio Engineering Society, he has held leadership positions including Regional Vice President and Co-Chair of the Education Committee. Previous publications include Mic It! Microphones, Microphone Techniques, and Their Impact on the Final Mix and articles for Sound on Sound and Live Sound International.