52A Mixing 1

Class Description

Mixing and mastering multitrack recordings. EQ, compression, reverb, delays, tempo maps, Lo-Fi techniques, multi-band compression. Comparison and contrast of various styles of mixing including jazz, classical, country, rock, hip hop and electronica. Example exercises featuring professional recordings and mixes. Understanding and applying mixing concepts such as balance, dimension, and monitoring. Deliver final mixes that translate accurately to various speaker systems and listening environments.

Gain a greater understanding of two key elements of production by learning the latest approaches to mixing and mastering using Pro Tools. Essential knowledge for engineers, producers, or hobbyists who have their own home studio up and running, this course presents concepts that go beyond basic EQ and panning. Students will be exposed to more advanced mixing and mastering techniques including parallel compression, understanding reverb parameters as well as discussing compression techniques in mastering. You'll view demonstrations of engineers engaged in the processes, and by mixing and mastering Pro Tools sessions that are provided in the course, you will be able to hear, compare, and discuss the different mixes of your classmates.

By the end of this course you will have acquired a thorough understanding of the entire mixing and mastering process, information that you can apply to any mixing and mastering situation.

Music Tech Foundation have come together to offer an educational discount on the required software for the course: Ozone. Once you enroll in the course, you will be able to purchase this required software at a discounted price through the Required Course Materials link on your My Home page. Early enrollment is encouraged to ensure delivery prior to the start of the course.

Course Outline

1. Intro to Mixing
2. Monitoring
3. Mix Prep
4. Mixing Strategies
5. Balance
6. Equalization
7. Effects
8. Dynamics
9. Mix Practice
10. Mastering
11. Final Project

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• Understand and know the process of mixing in Pro Tools
• Use EQ and Dynamics in a Pro Tools session
• Use Reverb and Acoustic Space in a Pro Tools session
• Use delay, chorus and flanging in a Pro Tools session
• Understand and know the process of automation and dynamic mixing with Pro Tools
• Understand and know the process of mastering with Pro Tools
• Use the iZotope's Ozone plug-in to master stereo mixes with Pro Tools
• Analyze the dynamic spectrum of a multitrack recording
• Operate a digital and/or analog mixing board to mix a multitrack master to stereo
• Explain the mixing styles of the recording industry in the 20th century
• Evaluate a stereo mix by applying modern (post 1990) standards of commercial mixing
• Create a stereo mix from a multitrack master
• Create a digital audio tape or compact disc master of a stereo mix
• Discuss how different cultures and musical styles approach the art of mixing