5 Mixing Lessons I Wish I’d Learned Sooner
After spending over 12 years working on audio, I can tell you one thing... mixing is just as much about what not to do as it is about what you should do. The early years in the studio taught me plenty of lessons the hard way, and if I could go back, here are the five that would’ve made the biggest difference in my mixes from day one.
1. Overusing Compression
One of the biggest traps new engineers fall into is over-compressing everything. It’s easy to think compression automatically makes things sound “pro,” but too much of it can flatten your mix and kill the emotion. Use it with intent , control dynamics, don’t erase them. Leave space for natural energy and contrast.
2. Not Listening in Context
When I first started, I’d solo tracks constantly, thinking I could perfect each element one by one. The problem? A track that sounds great soloed can sound awful in context. Mixing is about how everything fits together, not how things sound alone. Always make EQ and level adjustments while the full mix is playing.
3. Monitoring Too Loud
Mixing at loud volumes tricks your ears. It might sound exciting in the moment, but your balance and EQ choices will be off once you turn it down. Keep your monitoring level moderate. If it sounds clean and full at a low volume, it’ll translate well anywhere.
4. Skipping Side-Chains
Side-chaining isn’t just for EDM, it’s one of the most underrated mixing tools. It can tighten up your low end, give your kick more punch, and create movement in your mix. Used right, it brings clarity and rhythm without drawing attention to itself.
5. Ignoring Tuning and Timing
No mix can fix a bad recording. Always start with a solid performance, everything should be in tune and on time. Especially your bass and kick. Tight, clean recordings make the rest of your mix effortless.
Mixing is about balance, control versus feel, precision versus vibe. Learn the fundamentals, experiment fearlessly, and remember: great mixes come from great decisions, not fancy gear.
-Aaron On Audio
