Discover how to achieve release-quality mixes even in the smallest studios by applying power-user techniques from the world's most successful producers.
Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio is the best-selling primer for small-studio enthusiasts who want chart-ready sonics in a hurry. Drawing on the back-room strategies of more than 160 famous names, this entertaining and down-to-earth guide leads you step-by-step through the entire mixing process. On the way, you'll unravel the mysteries of every type of mix processing, from simple EQ and compression through to advanced spectral dynamics and "fairy dust" effects. User-friendly explanations introduce technical concepts on a strictly need-to-know basis, while chapter summaries and assignments are perfect for school and college use.
▪ Learn the subtle editing, arrangement, and monitoring tactics which give industry insiders their competitive edge, and master the psychological tricks which protect you from all the biggest rookie mistakes.
▪ Find out where you don't need to spend money, as well as how to make a limited budget really count.
▪ Pick up tricks and tips from leading-edge engineers working on today's multi-platinum hits, including Derek "MixedByAli" Ali, Michael Brauer, Dylan "3D" Dresdow, Tom Elmhirst, Serban Ghenea, Jacquire King, the Lord-Alge brothers, Tony Maserati, Manny Marroquin, Noah "50" Shebib, Mark "Spike" Stent, DJ Swivel, Phil Tan, Andy Wallace, Young Guru, and many, many more...
Now extensively expanded and updated, including new sections on mix-buss processing, mastering, and the latest advances in plug-in technology.
Table of Contents
Part 1 Hearing & Listening
Chapter 1 Using Nearfield Monitors
Chapter 2 Supplementary Monitoring
Chapter 3 Low-end Damage Limitation
Chapter 4 From Subjective Impressions To Objective Results
Part 2 Mix Preparation
Chapter 5 Essential Groundwork
Chapter 6 Timing and Tuning Adjustments
Chapter 7 Comping and Arrangement
Part 3 Balance
Chapter 8 Building the Raw Balance
Chapter 9 Compressing for a Reason
Chapter 10 Beyond Compression
Chapter 11 Equalizing for a Reason
Chapter 12 Beyond EQ
Chapter 13 Frequency-Selective Dynamics
Chapter 14 The Power Of Side Chains
Chapter 15 Toward Fluent Balancing
Part 4 Sweetening to Taste
Chapter 16 Mixing with Reverb
Chapter 17 Mixing with Delays
Chapter 18 Stereo Enhancements
Chapter 19 Master-buss Processing, Automation, and Endgame
Chapter 20 Conclusion
Appendix 1 Music Studios and the Recording Process: An Overview
Appendix 2 Who's Who: Selected Discography
Appendix 3 Quote References
Appendix 4 Picture Credits
Biography
Mike Senior is a professional engineer who has worked with Wet Wet Wet, The Charlatans, Reef, Therapy, and Nigel Kennedy. He specializes in adapting the techniques of top producers for those working in small studios and on a tight budget. He has transformed dozens of amateur productions for Sound On Sound magazine's popular "Mix Rescue" column, proving time and again that you can achieve commercial-grade results with affordable gear—once you know how!
