Music Tech II: Advanced Mix Techniques

Buses

A signal path that allows you to route multiple audio tracks to a single destination for grouping or collective processing.

EQ (Equalization)

The process of adjusting the volume of specific frequencies within an audio signal.

Hertz (Hz)

The unit of measurement for frequency, representing cycles per second.

Gain

The amount of boost or cut applied to a frequency range, measured in decibels (dB).

Frequency

The specific "pitch" or position within the audio spectrum (lows, mids, highs).

Bandwidth (Q)

The width of the frequency range affected by an EQ adjustment; high is narrow, low is wide.

Rumble

Low-frequency noise or sub-bass buildup, typically found below 80Hz.

Muddy

A build-up of low-mid frequencies (200Hz–500Hz) that lacks clarity.

Boxy

A hollow, mid-range sound (400Hz–800Hz).

Cutting/Presence

The frequency range (2kHz–5kHz) that helps a sound stand out and feel "up front" in a mix.

Sizzle

The high-frequency "air" or crispness (8kHz+) found in cymbals or vocal breath.

Corrective EQ

The use of EQ to fix problems, such as removing resonance or unwanted noise, usually with narrow cuts.

Shaping EQ

The use of EQ to enhance the character or tone of a sound, usually with broad, musical boosts.

Compression

A tool used to reduce the dynamic range of a signal by turning down the loudest parts.

Threshold

The volume level at which a compressor begins to act on the signal.

Ratio

The amount of gain reduction applied once the signal crosses the threshold (e.g., 4:1).

Transient

The short-duration, high-energy peak at the beginning of a sound (like a drum hit).

Attack

The speed at which a compressor starts reducing the volume after the threshold is crossed.

Release

The speed at which a compressor stops reducing the volume and returns to normal after the signal drops below the threshold.

Reverb

An effect used to simulate a physical acoustic space or room.

Pre-Delay

The amount of time between the initial dry sound and the start of the reverb reflections.

Size

The simulated dimensions of the acoustic space (e.g., a small room vs. a large hall).

Length (Decay)

How long it takes for the reverb tail to fade away into silence.

Damping

The absorption of high frequencies in a reverb tail, making the space sound "softer" or "darker."

Wet/Dry

The balance between the original unprocessed signal and the processed effect in reverb.

Reverb Bus Advantages

Saves CPU, creates a sense of "unity" by putting instruments in the same space, and allows for EQ-ing the reverb separately.