Mixing is the process of technical processing of a sound signal by means of a variety of tools (so-called plug-ins), both analog and digital, for obtaining the sound quality of a musical composition or a separate sound fragment, which plays the most important role in sound engineering and sound design. Today, there are many services that provide online mixing and mastering services.

Do you need mixing and mastering services?

Mixing is the creation of the final recording from separately recorded tracks (soundtracks) and the next stage of phonogram creation, which consists of selection and editing (sometimes restoration) of initially recorded tracks, combining them into a single project, and processing with effects. Editing is often a separate stage of the work.

The mixing stage emerged historically in the 1960s with the advent of multitrack microphones, which made it possible to record eight channels simultaneously. Initially, mixing was not a separate stage in the process of creating phonograms, but an integral element of sound recording, because there was no technical possibility to save the entire project, and mixing was carried out as new material was recorded without the possibility of returning to the earlier stages.

With the increase in the number of channels, it became possible to work with the entire project, which made mixing a separate stage of work. In the 1990s, digital mixing technologies became widespread. In 1994 with the release of Pro Tools III, it became possible to use real-time effects processing, which made it possible to choose to process parameters during playback. Cubase VST in 1996 marked the beginning of mixing in the form in which it is most commonly used nowadays. Finding decent professionals who provide mixing and mastering services is now very easy. 

How does audio mixing work?

Audio mixing is the meticulous process of converting a specific number of audio tracks into a complete piece of music. It's very difficult to work that requires attention, diligence, and patience. A quality mix will emphasize all the virtues of the music, highlighting the most important elements of the composition. It is important that a successful mix will sound perfect on any equipment, starting with a mono radio and ending with an audiophile set of equipment.

Theoretically, the process of mixing music is not complicated at all—you just adjust the controls until you get the sound you want. But it's almost impossible to do it by accident because mixing is like playing a musical instrument.

Choose the best mixing studio 

If you cannot make a good recording at home, it is better to turn to qualified specialists in sound recording and vocal and sound processing. Creating a high-quality sound, recording songs and instruments, and recording audiobooks require special conditions and equipment.

In addition, you need a specialist who will monitor the recording, adjust the parameters on the console, and conduct post-processing. Good sound requires excellent equipment, which you also need to know how to work with, and a special room. In this area, there are many subtleties that you may not know. But for qualified professionals from the mixing studio it is very easy.