Mixdown Explained
Music Mixdown
The theory behind multitrack bounce(mixdown) to stereo.
A mixdown to stereo is simply the summation of multiple tracks into two mono output tracks. One mono output track for the left ear one mono output track for the right ear. Combined this is stereo. In essence you're creating a two channel sound stage. Because there are two channels, referred to as stereo, you have the opportunity to add a third dimension. Listeners have the ability to localise sound. To mimic the third dimension control such as Pan can be used to achieve this. By offsetting the playback slight ambience is given.
Extra effect that can be achieved by the manipulation of Pan.
Distance, direction, source movements and speed can all be achieved by this manipulation at this stage of mixed down.
Pan is not the only method of effecting the ambience of sound. Volume can also help to affect the perception. Fader controls, control the volume. Volume gives the opportunity to affect distance perceived.
When using mastering media, if the genre permits levels should be set to the highest possible level without the processors having to make audio clipping.
The mastering machines can be simulated in Cubase. The mastering process which incorporates compression as well as general mixes.
An approach to Hip Hop Mixdown
- Set pitch levels on devices.
- Mix levels.
- Set Insert effects. EQ
- Set Mix Levels
- Set Automation to adjust volumes,pan.
- Bounce down (Normally 44,100 32bit float)
- Wavlab or equivalent.
- Apply compression,normalisation (Loudness maximizing)
- save file.
- convert file to 44100 16bit
- burn to Cd if Test and repeat steps if not up to standard
Eq in the Mixdown Process
When considering the quality of a sound the intended use should be the primary concern. Because the sounds in hip hop are often going to be samples EQ is important to control the bass levels of a song. A syncopated rhythm track is normally the final destination. EQ is used to ensure audible distinction from other sounds that might appear on the track. The process involves listening to recorded sounds of a selection of high hats and bass drums to adjust EQ to achieve the distinction required.
Equalisers affect the frequency response of an audio system. Three sections are bass, middle and treble. All three sections can be further divided. But when considering the basics bass covers the low-level bands middle the intermediate bands and treble the upper bands. EQ in this way does allow for the distorted effect of multiple tracks on an audio to be cleaned. This can enable the appearance of distinct layers in a song.
Sound can be improved by adjusting the cut-off points of the sound, to achieve a better loop. Both ends of a sound waveare processed to eliminate pop (Top and Tailing). The sample that are used should be or have been normalised and pitch bended to improve the tuning with the rest of the track.





