Sound on Sound (2011) Information

Written by Mike Senior, the text explains different ways to tackle mix mistakes that are common in studio practice. The article had useful information on tonality problems, using wrong reverb and along with others which will be explained and assessed. The information in this section will give a brief outline of the subdivisions of information that has been found in the Mix Mistake part of the book.

A section containing information on tonality misjudgments was useful in understanding some problems that may have occurred with the first mix done. The text explains that comparing the project mix to other commercial mixes can help show the tone problems within the project mix. In addition, Mike explains to “Compare mixes on more than one listening system, if possible, and at different playback volumes” (2011), to show how each system is going to play the project mix back. A comparison on how each different system sounded will be noted, such as a Hi-Fi system having a frequency band boosted. Furthermore applying a frequency analysis tool on the master channel of the project mix will help show any tonal imbalances.

However phase misalignment is another common mistake and some useful information was found of how to overcome this problem. Firstly using in program plug-ins such as an EQ and phase inversing or using a fine delay to place the two contrasting wave shapes in time correctly. The main point expressed by Mike is “listening to your mix in mono is a quick way to check if any stereo signal in your mix harbors phase problems” (2011). When doing the second project mix the phase misalignment test will be done and may help show any other mistakes within my project mix.

Moreover a section called Mix Mud had information on trying to arrange and correct the low end of a mix. The information states how to use and apply different plug-ins to correct the bottom end, the first being really simple by applying a high pass filter to instruments not using any low end. “This will ensure that DC noise, traffic rumble, mic-handling noise, and any other low-octave rubbish doesn't interfere with your main bass parts” (2011). In addition mike further explains about being wary of any effects that may change the characteristics of the instruments such as a delay or reverb. There is information on using the wrong reverb within a project mix, such as how to use a reverb correctly and the type of reverb that should be used for the project mix.

Additionally there are details on dealing with harshness by using an EQ. The details are mainly about avoiding common mistakes made aspiring studio engineers. The mistakes explained from the text are to mainly avoid EQ’ing in Solo and to try and “avoid boosting in the 2-5kHz region” (2011). 

References

Senior, Mike. (2011). Mix Mistakes. In: White, Paul and Lockwood, Dave Sound on Sound. Cambridge: Warner Midlands plc. p116-127.