Mixing for Clarity
Definition
A mix sounds clear when each element occupies its own space in frequency, stereo position and level. The underlying mechanism is masking: when two sources share a frequency band, the louder one hides the quieter one. Bass guitar and kick drum compete in the low frequencies, and vocals and electric guitars in the midrange. Raising the level of the masked element also raises the overall level of the mix, and the masking persists.
The guide
Equalization is the main tool for separating sources. A high-pass filter removes low-frequency energy from sources that do not need it, such as vocals, hi-hats and acoustic guitars, which clears the low end of the mix; a narrow cut makes room where two sources overlap. Panning places sources at different positions in the stereo field, so two elements that masked each other in the centre become distinct. Level then sets the hierarchy, with the vocal and the rhythmic foundation in front and the other elements in support.
The usual order is therefore to create space with filtering, equalization and panning before setting the fader levels.
The rule
Clarity in a mix comes from separating sources in frequency and position before their levels are set.
Glossary terms
Sources
- QSC, Sound Advice : EQ Tips, Frequency masking and how to avoid it : masquage fréquentiel et correction par égalisation · support.qscaudio.com
- iZotope, 6 ways to use a high-pass filter when mixing : filtrage passe-haut des sources non graves · izotope.com
- LANDR, What is Frequency Masking? Séparation par égalisation soustractive et panoramique · blog.landr.com