Music Glossary: mixing

Converts analog mic/instrument signals to digital audio and back; includes preamps, monitor outs, and often MIDI I/O. more

Recordable/playable parameter changes (level, pan, FX) over time for consistent, recallable mixes—aka “hands‑free mixing.” more

Faders first: achieve a solid rough mix without EQ or compression to ensure source and arrangement work naturally. more

Analog or digital mixer with channels, EQ, dynamics, buses, and automation; used for tracking and live/ studio mixing. more

Replacing a section by dropping into record over an existing take, then punching out to preserve the rest. more

Frequency-dependent compression that tames harshness or sibilance only when triggered. more

When overlapping instruments compete for the same frequency band; solved by EQ carving, panning, or arrangement choices. more

Managing levels across the mix chain to maintain headroom and avoid plugin distortion; aim for -6 dBFS peak on the stereo bus. more

Main theme/melody statement—often heard at the start and reprised at the end in jazz and instrumentals. more

Target average loudness (e.g., -14 LUFS for streaming) to preserve dynamics and avoid platform limiting. more

Separate mid (center) and side (stereo width) signals for targeted EQ, compression, or widening. more

Gentle compression, EQ, and saturation on the master to unify elements; minimal if mastering engineer will handle polish. more

How a mix sounds on different playback systems. Reference on earbuds, car, monitors, and mono to ensure consistency. more

Recording an additional layer over existing tracks to correct, enhance, or add parts. more

Comparing tonal balance and loudness-normalized reference mixes to avoid being misled by level differences. more

Quick balance/export for reference and notes; not the final approved mix. more

Analyzing mix energy per frequency range to ensure balanced spectrum across playback systems. more

Mastering from grouped stems (drums, vocals, instruments) for finer control while retaining mix integrity. more

Removing offending frequencies before boosting others; promotes headroom and cleaner tone shaping. more

One recorded pass of a part. Multiple takes are captured to allow comping, editing, and choice. more

Limiting with oversampling to catch inter-sample peaks above 0 dBFS that can distort on conversion. more