Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio (2^nd Ed.) Sound On Sound Presents... Series

Discover how to achieve release-quality mixes even in the smallest studios by applying power-user techniques from the world's most successful producers.

Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio is the best-selling primer for small-studio enthusiasts who want chart-ready sonics in a hurry. Drawing on the back-room strategies of more than 160 famous names, this entertaining and down-to-earth guide leads you step-by-step through the entire mixing process. On the way, you'll unravel the mysteries of every type of mix processing, from simple EQ and compression through to advanced spectral dynamics and "fairy dust" effects. User-friendly explanations introduce technical concepts on a strictly need-to-know basis, while chapter summaries and assignments are perfect for school and college use.

? Learn the subtle editing, arrangement, and monitoring tactics which give industry insiders their competitive edge, and master the psychological tricks which protect you from all the biggest rookie mistakes.

? Find out where you don't need to spend money, as well as how to make a limited budget really count.

? Pick up tricks and tips from leading-edge engineers working on today's multi-platinum hits, including Derek "MixedByAli" Ali, Michael Brauer, Dylan "3D" Dresdow, Tom Elmhirst, Serban Ghenea, Jacquire King, the Lord-Alge brothers, Tony Maserati, Manny Marroquin, Noah "50" Shebib, Mark "Spike" Stent, DJ Swivel, Phil Tan, Andy Wallace, Young Guru, and many, many more...

Now extensively expanded and updated, including new sections on mix-buss processing, mastering, and the latest advances in plug-in technology.

Table of Contents

Part 1 Hearing & Listening

Chapter 1 Using Nearfield Monitors

Chapter 2 Supplementary Monitoring

Chapter 3 Low-end Damage Limitation

Chapter 4 From Subjective Impressions To Objective Results

Part 2 Mix Preparation

Chapter 5 Essential Groundwork

Chapter 6 Timing and Tuning Adjustments

Chapter 7 Comping and Arrangement

Part 3 Balance

Chapter 8 Building the Raw Balance

Chapter 9 Compressing for a Reason

Chapter 10 Beyond Compression

Chapter 11 Equalizing for a Reason

Chapter 12 Beyond EQ

Chapter 13 Frequency-Selective Dynamics

Chapter 14 The Power Of Side Chains

Chapter 15 Toward Fluent Balancing

Part 4 Sweetening to Taste

Chapter 16 Mixing with Reverb

Chapter 17 Mixing with Delays

Chapter 18 Stereo Enhancements

Chapter 19 Master-buss Processing, Automation, and Endgame

Chapter 20 Conclusion

Appendix 1 Music Studios and the Recording Process: An Overview

Appendix 2 Who's Who: Selected Discography

Appendix 3 Quote References

Appendix 4 Picture Credits

Mike Senior is a professional engineer who has worked with Wet Wet Wet, The Charlatans, Reef, Therapy, and Nigel Kennedy. He specializes in adapting the techniques of top producers for those working in small studios and on a tight budget. He has transformed dozens of amateur productions for Sound On Sound magazine's popular "Mix Rescue" column, proving time and again that you can achieve commercial-grade results with affordable gear—once you know how!