They Know What They Want

Have you ever stood next to a master in a given field? What impresses me anytime I simply stand next to them and observe their practice, their incredible control over their craft, their detailed responses and attention to every element with smooth and consistent control... I am simply overwhelmed by their mastery. Masters know what they want. They aren't playing around with settings to get a sound they think might sound good. No, they know deep down in their heart what will sound good and they set out after that. It's not a matter of if, but when. They know what they want and they know what it will take to get there.

I suppose with that, I could end this article. It really is just that simple. Masters have taken the time to discover and learn through experience, others, and through textbooks and videos the processes neccessary to succeed in their field. These individual accomplishments might be impressive on their own, but collectively, they make an impressive piece of art. 

So before you begin mixing your next set, your next album, etc. Sit down and describe in as much detail what you want each element of the mix to accomplish. Describe the processes involved, the difficulties you will likely face, the phasing and timing issues you'll need to work through. Talk through the playback scenarios, the way in which mastering might be needed to improve the tonality and loudness of the mix, etc.

The more you can visualize and anticipate what will happen, the better you will be able to handle and cope in the moment with any given number of issues. For the highly talented engineers, you don't need hundreds of hours on a new board of DAW to do this effectily. If you know the processes, all it requires is flexibility of mind to take your current understanding and framework and apply it to the new system. 

The path towards becoming more like the master's in your mix is a practice of continually trying to find the most powerful currents and paths that pull you in the direction and habits of the masters' in terms of the habits they manifest an practice. You need to take time to cultivate a desire to improve, to learn, to improve constantly at everything you do. There is always more to learn and you will be quickly left in the dust if you are unwilling to take time to learn and develop yourself.

So with that, friend I hope you begin to think creatively and diligently about what you expect out of each aspect of your mix and the mix itself. Take time to define your sonic branding and the emotions you want to instill your mix and then setout to make it happen with consistency and fidelity.