Mixing on headphones has its pros and cons. When it comes to consistently mixing while using headphones, there can often times be some inconsistencies in levels and sound. Ultimately, it is ideal to do initial mixing on a set of high quality studio monitors. However, if headphones are all you have to work with, it is important to understand how to use them properly to find the perfect mix.
Here are three strategies that can help find the perfect sound while mixing.
1. Work At Two Volumes
When you first sit behind the mixer board, you want to put on your headphones and immediately find a comfortable volume. Likewise, you will want to be able to listen to everything you need to hear without peaking. This set volume will be your first set and will be where you do most of your mixing. Be sure to keep track of your set levels on your program or board’s interface.
However, you want to be sure not to work from this volume the whole time you are mixing the track. This is solely because your ears will grow accustomed to hearing the song at a certain volume. Because of this, it is important to utilize the second volume, which would be at a lower level.
At this point, you will want to turn down your volume knob just until you can make out each individual instrument on the mix. In many ways, it will begin to now sound more like background music. Maintaining a secondary, quieter volume has the power to reveal far more in the track. Remember, you want to hear every single instrument including the kick and snare of the drums.
Throughout the whole mixing process, you want to check the mix at both volumes in order to get every second of the recording sounding perfect.
2. Grab A Second Pair Of Headphones
Whether or not you are using a professional set of studio speakers or a set of headphones, it is essential have a second set of headphones — or speakers — on hand. This is a simple idea that says each pair of headphones or monitors has its very own EQ curve built in. That is, with each new sound you will learn how to mix properly for a multiple range and style of speakers and headphones.
Using only one type of headphone to mix can inhibit sound and make for an uneven, weak recording. So, the solution is simple — always have a spare set of headphones on hand. In fact, any standard set of in ear headphones will work perfectly for this. Using both professional and ordinary earphones will help you hear any differences and find other irregularities that need to be tweaked or altered.
Remember, it is important to be honest about the sound and consistently check each set of headphones to find the perfect mix.
3. Listen to the Mixes On Speakers For A Day
Once you think your mix is perfect and ready to go, listen to it for an entire day on normal speakers; all day. Although the mix might sound incredible through headphones, the sound might be completely different on speakers as opposed to the headphones or earbuds. This last step will show you a lot about your mix and how it actually sounds.
It is highly important for the quality and authenticity of your mix that you listen to it honestly and listen for any discrepancies in the sound. Some of the most important things to listen for the drums to cut through, clarity in vocal balance, and the overall impact or punch of the mix.
Take note of your first impressions of the mix, write them down and then go back to make any final adjustments as you see necessary.
Final Thoughts
At Zone Recording Studio of Cotati, California, it is our goal for you to understand what it takes to create a solid and professional recording. Careful attention to detail in each and every sound makes our recordings stand out amongst the rest.