The maxim is that any time a rock band makes a recording and they aren’t sure it’s any good, the producer’s stock reply is: “Don’t worry: we’ll fix it in the mix.”

As if the magic voodoo that goes into the final stage of a recording – the mixdown – can cure any ills.

To a certain extent, it’s true — a great mix can make all the difference.

And now the mix is more important than ever. With media convergence upon us, we’re producing audio for every manner of delivery.

Today, a radio promo/spot/sweeper/etc. is heard on living room stereos, car speakers, computer monitors, smart phones, clock radios, ear buds, headphones, etc. Ever seen two friends sharing the ear buds of an iPod? That drives any notion of cool stereo mixes right out of your head.

So make sure your producer has the right tools. It doesn’t mean getting him an expensive 5.1 surround sound system. Rather, it means getting your producer a system that includes some really crappy speakers.

Every good producer should be listening back to his final product on cheap speakers, headphones, ear buds and on the computer.

Years ago, Auratone (or as they were lovingly called, “Awfultone”) speakers were a must. These days, Avantone makes a similar model.

For your message to be heard; it has to be heard. So make sure it gets fixed in the mix.

Ben Manilla is President of Ben Manilla Productions and a member of The Radio Workout Team

Tags: Radio

No Comment