Headphones VS Monitors - What's Best For Mixing and mastering?

Should I mix and master with headphones or monitors? Are headphones bad for mixing? What's best for mixing? Headphones or monitors? These are all common questions, and this video will teach you the differences between headphones and monitors, and what's best for mixing and mastering music. Mixing on monitors and mixing on headphones is very different. There are some problems involved with both, and some of these problems can cause your mix to sound bad if you're not careful. Headphones don't have any room acoustic issues related to them, but then again, the lack of room acoustics can cause you to put too much into the mix, so that it will sound bad on monitors. Mixing reverb can also be difficult on headphones. A mix that's made to sound great on headphones will often sound bad on monitors, but a mix that's made to sound good on monitors will usually translate ok to headphones. Many beginners notice that a mix can sound great on headphones, but then it sounds bad on monitors, and they can't figure out why that happens.
Experience is key. If you know how a mix will translate, then there's no problem mixing on headphones or monitors. Mixing experience is key.
This video will explain the issues with mixing on both monitors and headphones.
This video will explain what's best for mixing, headphones, or monitors.
Check out my top picks on Amazon:
Best headphones for mixing and mastering: (Best value for money)
☑️AKG 612 PRO: geni.us/akg-k612pro
☑️ Beyerdynamic DT 880: geni.us/beyerdynamic-dt880
☑️ AKG K 701: geni.us/akg-k-701
☑️ Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO: geni.us/DT-990-pro
☑️ Audio-Technica ATH-R70x: geni.us/ATH-R70x
☑️ Sennheiser HD 650: geni.us/HD-650
☑️ Behringer HPS3000: geni.us/HPS3000
☑️ Sennheiser HD280 PRO: geni.us/sennheiser-hd280pro
☑️ Samson SR850: geni.us/Samson-SR850
Studio monitors under $1000 (pair)
☑️ Yamaha HS8: geni.us/Yamaha-HS8
☑️ Yamaha HS5: geni.us/Yamaha-HS5
☑️ Adam Audio T7V: geni.us/Adam-Audio-T7V
☑️ Adam Audio T5v: geni.us/Adam-Audio-T5V
☑️ M-Audio AV42 : geni.us/M-Audio-AV42
☑️ JBL Professional 305P Mk2: geni.us/JBL-305P
☑️ MACKIE MR824: geni.us/mackie-mr824
☑️ PreSonus Eris E5: geni.us/presonus-eris-e5
☑️ PreSonus Eris E8: geni.us/eris-e8
☑️ KRK Rokit 5 G4: geni.us/krk-rokit5-g4
☑️ JBL 306P MKII: geni.us/jbl-306p
☑️ ROKIT 7 G4: geni.us/krk-rp7-g4
☑️ KRK ROKIT 6 G3: geni.us/krk-rokit-r6
Monitors over $1000 (pair)
☑️ Adam Audio A7X: geni.us/adam-audio-a7x
☑️ DYNAUDIO LYD 48: geni.us/dynaudio-lyd-48
☑️ Adam Audio S2V: geni.us/adam-audio-s2v
☑️ Neumann KH 120A: geni.us/neumann-kh120a
☑️ HEDD AUDIO TYPE 20: geni.us/hedd-type20
☑️ Focal Shape Twin: geni.us/focal-shape
☑️ EVE AUDIO SC208: geni.us/eve-audio-sc208
Subwoofers:
☑️ Yamaha HS8S: geni.us/yamaha-hs8s
☑️ PreSonus Temblor T10: geni.us/presonus-tremblor-t10
☑️ Adam Audio Sub8: geni.us/adam-audio-sub8
☑️ JBL LSR310S: geni.us/jbl-lsr310s
☑️ KRK 10S2 V2: geni.us/krk-10s2v2
☑️ Mackie MR10S Mk3: geni.us/mackie-mr10smk3
XLR cables:
☑️ Monoprice 6 ft Balanced XLR cable: geni.us/monoprice104761
The microphone I'm using:
☑️ Audio-Technica Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone: geni.us/at2020microphone
☑️ Vocal recording booth/microphone stand: geni.us/microphonebooth
Audio Interface:
☑️ Focusrite Scarlett Solo: geni.us/scarlettsolo-3rd-gen
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📧 Other inquiries?
[e-mail]

[@FireWalkMusic]

Headphones, best value for money (Amazon Links): ☑️AKG 612 PRO: geni.us/akg-k612pro ☑️ Beyerdynamic DT 880: geni.us/beyerdynamic-dt880 ☑️ AKG K 701: geni.us/akg-k-701 ☑️ Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO: geni.us/DT-990-pro ☑️ Audio-Technica ATH-R70x: geni.us/ATH-R70x ☑️ Sennheiser HD 650: geni.us/HD-650 ☑️ Behringer HPS3000: geni.us/HPS3000 ☑️ Sennheiser HD280 PRO: geni.us/sennheiser-hd280pro ☑️ Samson SR850: geni.us/Samson-SR850 Studio monitors under $1000 (pair) ☑️ Yamaha HS8: geni.us/Yamaha-HS8 ☑️ Yamaha HS5: geni.us/Yamaha-HS5 ☑️ Adam Audio T7V: geni.us/Adam-Audio-T7V ☑️ Adam Audio T5v: geni.us/Adam-Audio-T5V ☑️ M-Audio AV42 : geni.us/M-Audio-AV42 ☑️ JBL Professional 305P Mk2: geni.us/JBL-305P ☑️ MACKIE MR824: geni.us/mackie-mr824 ☑️ PreSonus Eris E5: geni.us/presonus-eris-e5 ☑️ PreSonus Eris E8: geni.us/eris-e8 ☑️ KRK Rokit 5 G4: geni.us/krk-rokit5-g4 ☑️ JBL 306P MKII: geni.us/jbl-306p ☑️ ROKIT 7 G4: geni.us/krk-rp7-g4 ☑️ KRK ROKIT 6 G3: geni.us/krk-rokit-r6 Monitors over $1000 (pair) ☑️ Adam Audio A7X: geni.us/adam-audio-a7x ☑️ DYNAUDIO LYD 48: geni.us/dynaudio-lyd-48 ☑️ Adam Audio S2V: geni.us/adam-audio-s2v ☑️ Neumann KH 120A: geni.us/neumann-kh120a ☑️ HEDD AUDIO TYPE 20: geni.us/hedd-type20 ☑️ Focal Shape Twin: geni.us/focal-shape ☑️ EVE AUDIO SC208: geni.us/eve-audio-sc208 Subwoofers: ☑️ Yamaha HS8S: geni.us/yamaha-hs8s ☑️ PreSonus Temblor T10: geni.us/presonus-tremblor-t10 ☑️ Adam Audio Sub8: geni.us/adam-audio-sub8 ☑️ JBL LSR310S: geni.us/jbl-lsr310s ☑️ KRK 10S2 V2: geni.us/krk-10s2v2 ☑️ Mackie MR10S Mk3: geni.us/mackie-mr10smk3 XLR cables: ☑️ Monoprice 6 ft Balanced XLR cable: geni.us/monoprice104761 The microphone I'm using: ☑️ Audio-Technica Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone: geni.us/at2020microphone ☑️ Vocal recording booth/microphone stand: geni.us/microphonebooth Audio Interface: ☑️ Focusrite Scarlett Solo: geni.us/scarlettsolo-3rd-gen As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. ✔️VST & Effect plugins: pluginboutique.com/?a_aid=5d496680b59cd ✔️Premium loops and sample packs: www.loopmasters.com/?a_aid=5d496680b59cd Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/firewalkmusic Want professional feedback on your track? Mixing or Mastering? www.fiverr.com/firewalk

[@Kwipper]

I use the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro's already. Love them soo much!

[@aldobriantlangi3416]

I prefer headphones, because my neighbors are so sensitive

[@FireWalkMusic]

Valid point. I used to have this problem myself. Thin walls are not ideal for producers. :)

[@aldobriantlangi3416]

@@FireWalkMusic Lmao

[@mattwitkowski6813]

You mean you neighbors prefer headphones.😉

[@cesarqzda]

They called the cops on me 3x smh

[@aldobriantlangi3416]

@@cesarqzda lol

[@audebeats]

This information is so helpful i have so many songs i put on hold due to mixing issues because I've struggled to get a good sound on speakers. This video has respraked my inspiration to go back and finish alot of my tracks. Thank you so much!

[@FireWalkMusic]

You're welcome! :)

[@HouseJunk1e]

I do everything in my beyerdynamic dt 770 250 ohms. no complaints from anyone ever about my mixes. :) im signed to multiple labels for edm.

[@JimLigon]

I usually use both. I have the Tascam TH-300X studio headphones & a pair KRK Rokit 5 monitors with a KRK 10s subwoofer. I haven't had any issues mixing with this setup. Great video!

[@TACAMusic]

I use both monitors, and headphones :D

[@FireWalkMusic]

That's the best way to do it :)

[@drumman806]

I'm new to recording in a home studio. I use both for mixing and like you mentioned in your video fine tuning with the headsets is crucial and that is usually when I used my headsets I mainly use monitors for mixing and mastering unless its late night then I go to my headsets ; A great video! Thanks for sharing.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks, glad you liked it :)

[@kebuelain5695]

I bought DT 880 PROs few months ago, before I had Hyperx Cloud 2 so I am very happy with the upgrade :D

[@glbrt5722]

I moved to South Korea with my wife a few years ago, ever since then I've had to switch to headphone mixing; the apartments in Korea are very small and having loud monitors isn't possible. These days I actually prefer using wireless ear buds to mix, I have enough experience to know what to do and to make my mixes sound professional regardless if it's through headphones/monitors so I'm happy with the way things turned out. It forced me to step up my mixing game with the limited resources that I had access to.

[@creativetrance1]

Great video as always! I've been mixing with my sennheiser hd595 headphones, but recently I just got behringer b2031a monitors. It has been very interesting to see the difference!

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks! :)

[@xandy9727]

I mix 99% on headphones, and then book 1-5 sessions in the university studios to check and fix the problems inevitably bought by headphone mixing. Pretty effective! There is general guideline on mixing on headphones which is to ease off too many super creative effects and save them for monitor mixing sessions so you can really hear them properly.

[@FireWalkMusic]

That should work! And most importantly, you get to learn by experience which issues typically occur on headphones vs monitors and vice versa, so that your mix will improve as you start automatically compensating for those issues in the long run. :)

[@marciojunior9266]

Thnak you so much for this man!

[@FireWalkMusic]

You're welcome 🙂

[@deadlyrobot5179]

good job sir, keep up the amazing work.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks :)

[@FireWalkMusic]

Are you mixing on headphones or monitors, and why?

[@mshod1550]

I am mixing on headphone cause I can't afford monitor

[@MusaDays808]

@@mshod1550 I Pray & Hope You Get Some Monitors Some Day, Mate 🙏 Very Important, Although I Sometimes Do 50% On Headphones & The Other 50% On Studio Monitors & Vice Versa 🤷‍♂️

[@disturbeddemons1]

Monitors for sound design and arrangement, headphones for mix and master

[@republicofcasuals]

I use headphones if it's late and i have a idea for a melody but once a track start forming it's speakers all the way

[@michalgorolchilli4293]

When started, I used my gaming headphones because I thought there would be no diference. The problem was bass and treble were pushed up the mix and frequencies in the middle were almost silent. I mixed some tracks, mostly orchestral and they sounded great. I then bought them on the USB to my father to play him on speakers and it was horrible. I switched to studio headphones and the result is much better. I can't use speakers as I have my studio in the cellar where are howwible acoustics and the room is really small but with very various shape so dealing with this would be bad as well. If I had a profesional studio I'd go for combination of both and also the nearfield speakers as well!

[@projectanigma]

Very informative! I prefer both for music production because it could be the best tools!

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks, I totally agree!

[@andrevaughnmusic]

Firewalk i totally agree what you say in this video , for example if going to use a EQ or other stuff i use a headphone . but for mixing i use my KRK rokit 8 , anyway what you say in this video headphones and Monitors both are winners ;) thank you so much for this video .

[@FireWalkMusic]

Indeed! Glad you liked the video :)

[@kevintran9321]

Great video! Thanks :)

[@FireWalkMusic]

You're welcome :)

[@iplayddr3789]

best production tutorials on youtube!

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks, much appreciated! :)

[@thedevilriders101]

Awesome video. Thank you.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks:)

[@jiat_spacejams]

Ive been mixing on my m30x's for a minute, just got a pair of edifier r1850dbs and immediately im hearing problems i didnt hear before. It definitely pays to have both

[@FireWalkMusic]

Indeed! You simply can't hear the same level of detail on monitors, no matter how good they are, so for critical listening, headphones are key. However, for general mixing, monitors are definitely the best way to go. There's also the issue of hearing damage which is much more of an issue with headphones compared to monitors.

[@Prod.By-King.Raven_Montarin_01]

Very nice explanation 🎙️❤️

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks! :)

[@nsoaan5037]

Does applying morphit by (tonal boosters) is it worth?

[@Maffio786]

If i make a beat with small monitors (presonus) how much volume should i set in the audio interface and monitors . and if i mix at the end with headphones how much volume of the interface should i turn up ?

[@TheTonyTitan]

This was helpful

[@azamatborat8305]

I actually own the T8V‘s, but I rarely use them. In this video I learned a lot thanks to you. But I live with my parents and annoying Neighborus. It wasn‘t surprisingly smart of me to get the biggest ones, especially when the room isn’t acoustically treated nor big enough for them. Hi-Fi headphones and sometimes a switch to he monitors is how I mix with my 1,5 Years of music production experience.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Yeah, they're quite powerful and not ideal for small rooms or apartments with thin walls.

[@TheSlim1]

I'm tired from the headphone i need a monitor but is it gonna be deffrient ?

[@thestylesworld]

Does Sony MDR-7506 also a mixing headphone?

[@trancephile2412]

i watched a video about secret of a good mixing , and that was mixing in mono , now i have a question , what if you mix your track with headphones in mono ? i think in this way you don't need an acoustic room for mixing

[@red7332]

Audio Technica ATH m50x! For reference i also own a pair of Adam T7V monitors and Beyerdynamic DT 1990 headphones👌

[@FireWalkMusic]

That's a good setup! :)

[@s.a.m.simplified4598]

Nice video!

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks :)

[@dhananjaysrinivas3228]

Thanks for the info! But is it necessary for a need of audio interface if we are working on headphones??

[@FireWalkMusic]

You can use the onboard soundcard in your computer, but if you're planning on using some professional reference headphones (recommended) then the port on your computer won't be able to drive those properly. Most USB powered audio interfaces can drive headphones up towards 200 ohms. Audio interfaces with their own power supply can usually drive more than that. So for the best quality, an audio interface is recommended. With an audio interface you'll also be able to use a dedicated asio driver that comes with the device, which will usually provide less latency than the asio4all driver that you'll typically have to use for most onboard souncards.

[@agamaz5650]

actually, after I started understanding reverb and stereo, my mix sounds amazing on monitors or speakers, I mix exclusively on headphones (I low cut the reverb and use the wet signal in parallel processing, and I just widen up the stereo of the synths on the mixer) Sub and kick are always in mono btw. (and of course kick sidechained with the sub so they don't clash) Hopefully that helps you beginners :)

[@CasamTheAnimator]

But what about earphones? Will it make the sound sound exact as it is?

[@jamalcole1985]

Use closed back/open back headphones, eabuds & monitors.Also, a/b a reference track while doing all of the above.

[@FireWalkMusic]

That's a good practice! :)

[@BILLADO]

I enjoy the instrumental that's playing in the background. where can I find the full song?

[@FireWalkMusic]

I don't remember, it was some royalty free music from the youtube creators library :)

[@govideo22]

Very great video

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks! :)

[@greendog2529]

i have heard that mixing bass music on headphones (ATH-M50X) is much more accurate than mixing on monitors ,because they can go deep down to 15Hz.But ( JBL 305P MKII ,Adam T5v ,Krk 5 g4 ,Focal alpha 50 etc.) are going only down to 45hz.Is that true or its only a myth? I have very small room and very limited budget,so i need honest advice if possible. i am aiming at JBL 305P MKII + ATH-M50X + Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen ,but i am afraid of that rear ported bass on JBL's ,because my room is very small and it may making me too much bass problems? OR should i pay double more for fronted bass port like focal alpha 50's?

[@FireWalkMusic]

Headphones generally provide better detail, also in the low-end. However, the thing is that you can't evern hear 15 hz. Few humans are able to perceive anything below 30 hz. Our hearing is not very sensitive to low frequencies. When it comes to bass below 50 hz or so, we tend to feel it rather than hearing it. That's why powerful monitors can be helpful when making bass heavy music. You won't get that same effect with headphones. They might be reproducing low frequencies, but you're not perceiving it as bass, since those low frequencies tend to be felt rather than heard. Most 5" monitors can't go lower than 50-60 hz. It's a matter of physics. In order to go lower, you need larger cones. It's as simple as that. If you want monitors that reproduce a lot of low end then the HS8 are great, but they might be simply too big for smaller rooms. If you have a small room and need to put them close to the rear wall then front ported monitors are generally better.

[@joshbraun7152]

Sennheiser HD600s and ATM40xs for mixing

[@Ms76Cocoa]

I mix on headphones. I have Audio Technica m50x. I do so due to the cost of quality monitors, although I do have a entry level set of monitors. I don't trust them though, so I only use my headphones. To compensate, I listen to my mix in as many different environments as I can.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Referencing the mix on many different systems is always a good idea! :)

[@lawrencediggs7957]

It should be noted that the sound of speakers will vary a lot more than headphones because speakers are affected by variables like room treatment, humidity, and even how many people are in the room. Even if headphones are not optimal, they seem to be more consistent. It should be noted that no matter what one does in a studio, the listener can and will put their spin on it by adjusting their device. To me, this means that a "good mix and master" is usually quite subjective. If you can afford it, have something mixed and mastered by one engineer and then take it to another and ask them to fix it. See if they will tell you it is all good and you don't need their services. 😁

[@timothygregory4244]

Quick Question I have 5 inch Studio Monitors. Can I mix without a sub woofer? Or do I need sub woofer in order to mix accurately? I usually use headphones, but when I switch over to Studio monitors I find the bass lacking. Thanks

[@FireWalkMusic]

Hi, you can mix without a subwoofer but 5" monitors won't be able to provide any meaningful low-end below 50-60 Hz or so, so you'll have to reference with headphones to make sure it's ok in the sub frequencies. When it comes to low-end, it's really all about woofer size. Smaller woofers can't reproduce those lowest frequencies, and you'll need at least 8" monitors in order to get that full low-end extension. When mixing on smaller monitors a subwoofer can be a very good idea. Note that when using subwoofers there are also issues related to placement and balancing it properly in terms of volume.

[@phaneserichthoneus8895]

Since I live in an apartment, I mix on headphones, even as a relative beginner. I'm a beginner to mixing after spending a few years working on music theory and sound design. However, I'm wondering if using a reference track helps in the case of mixing on either headphones or even a $100 5.1 surround speaker system (Altec Lansing). It seems that if you listen to a professionally produced track and you hear what it sounds like through something like this, you can at least compare your own to see if yours basically sounds about the same or not.

[@FireWalkMusic]

I generally recommend using studio monitors or studio headphones for mixing since they don't color the sound like hifi equipment does. That said, you can use just about anything for mixing as long as you know how commercial mixes tend to translate to those speakers or headphones, since you'll then be able to compensate for the way they sound, making your own mixes sound tonally close to the commercial mixes. Just keep in mind that commercial mixes are mastered, and this can make your own mix sound quite quiet and lifeless in comparison. It's therefore a good idea to use a limiter on the master temporarily while you mix, so that you can get a sense of how it will sound when it's mastered. This will bring it closer to the reference track in terms of loudness, and makes it easier to do the comparisons.

[@phaneserichthoneus8895]

@@FireWalkMusic Yes, I have Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. I like them very much except that they have such a tight grip that my ears sometimes hurt after I take them off if I don't position them just right. lol

[@justhearit653]

Plz give a tutorial of how to make a perfect drop

[@DanFearn]

Like you said, I like to use both, and then burn a CD and listen in some different environments, like the car, for instance.

[@FireWalkMusic]

That's a good approach! :)

[@peace7642]

a “CD”? What is this ancient technology?

[@daubin5086]

Same! I also check via AirPods and bluetooth speakers. Transmissions over some wireless types can lose fidelity and make a mix sound too bright/muddy. My FM transmitter in my car is awful for altering frequencies.

[@lifeofhazeltheredmerletoya4845]

Not sure how I ended up on this Video it was not what I was Searching for lol. Well here's my Answer on this subject. Mixing on monitors is Old School it works Good gets the Job Done & it has it's Flaws. The better choice is Mixing on Both you will find your mixes will sound Tighter, Fuller with Wonderful Equal temperment Mixes. Sounding overall Better. I Mix & Master on Headphones & Monitors while referencing back & forth keeping A tight mix on both. I find you get A much overall better Mix every time allowing the Music to sound great in almost any kind of system for the listener & this is what it's all about Having the Listener enjoy the Music the way it was intended. 😉👍🏼 Hope this clears up things for Someone. Have A Wonderful Day.

[@carlok6949]

Hi Firewalk, for trance production, what is the best headphone? my budget is around 150$

[@FireWalkMusic]

With a $150 budget I would definitely go for the akg 612: geni.us/akg-k612pro They are among my favorite headphones! I own lots of headphones, even much more expensive ones, but I keep coming back to these. :)

[@jakubbielak7273]

I use to mix on headphones, because of no money for good monitors, but I know it's not good. When I listen to my music through my friend's monitors, the mix proportions are way different.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Yeah, that's the drawback of not being able to use both at the same time.

[@oliverheath964]

I couldn’t decide before this but now I know I need both 🤣

[@FireWalkMusic]

Yeah, kind of. They both excel at various things :)

[@PhoenixSkullStudios]

I've always mixed on headphones, and I always get a great mix that translates well.

[@FireWalkMusic]

While it's more difficult, it is not impossible. I remember Avicii used to mix on headphones while on a noisy plane, so anything is possible as long as you have the required experience. :)

[@rocca717]

i go back and fowards from my Adam T5V monitors and my audio-technica ath-m40x headphones

[@FireWalkMusic]

That's a good way to do it :)

[@Edward135i]

I've never made a mix nor am I a musician. but I came here because a friend of mine made a rap song and sent it to me to ask what I thought of it. I listened to the song on my home theater system and I told him it needs more bass. He said that it sounded fine to him but he mixed the song on his audio technica m40x headphones. I found it very interesting, that my home theater system immediately brought out the flaws in his mix.

[@FireWalkMusic]

A lot of people, and especially beginners start out mixing on headphones. You won't get any natural reflections from the room or anything like that, so you won't be compensating for that as you mix if you use headphones. When you're done and the track is played on speakers, it will sound very different indeed. That's why I generally recommend using monitors instead, especially for beginners. I realize it's not always an option for everyone though, as many have grumpy neighbors and thin walls. :)

[@smilelion6386]

For mixing and mastering you need to use sonarworks reference 4.

[@mozhnonarushati]

Как именно он помогает?

[@Alkatraz581]

Олег Воронежский That software is garbage

[@wavescomplete5085]

Use headphone long time, may cause hearing impairment. So i just use headphone for rec vocal only.. For mix and setting use external monitoring speaker

[@FireWalkMusic]

Indeed, I recommend mixing on monitors, and then using headphones for tracking, and fine-tuning / problem-solving etc.

[@ollie5845]

I'm staring out (I'm 13, play guitar and drums) and I have a daw, audio interface, mic, midi controller but I can only afford one (monitors or speakers). What do I do?

[@FireWalkMusic]

One monitor isn't going to do you much good. In that case you're better off with some decent studio headphones, at least until you can save up to a pair of monitors. :) These are the ones I'm using: amzn.to/32J0C1d

[@ollie5845]

@Tek Geek I live in Britain oof

[@music_creator_capable]

Thanks ^^

[@FireWalkMusic]

You're welcome :)

[@EnryuCovers]

I'm actually wondering if I should get headphones or monitors first just for general producing

[@FireWalkMusic]

It's generally easier to get good mixes on monitors, so I always recommend monitors over headphones, especially for beginners. That said, I realize that not everyone is able to use monitors. Some people have thin walls and grumpy neighbors for example, which makes it difficult to produce on monitors.

[@peraz968]

Hi. I aint no nothing like a super hyper pro editor. But, I like to produce and edit music just like I like to listen it! So, my choice is monitors with subfoower. Because thats the way I can hear evertyhing just like I have used to listen everything. So, Music is the key. It is natural to me listen at monitors. And if you ask abaut me, it gives me allso better conclusion at the end. So, monitors and woofer is my choice. It just works way better for me. And yeah, I have ofcourse used headphones allso. Headphones may help on some situations, but not for me at least all day long tool to do the job. This is problematic thing, but everybody does how they feel the best way to do so. Someone likes doughter, someone likes the mother etc..

[@Void8kies]

What are best for mixing close backs or open backs ??

[@FireWalkMusic]

Open is generally best for mixing. Closed are good for tracking, since sound won't bleed out into the mic. The exception is of course if you need to produce in the same room as someone else, in that case, you might have to go for closed.

[@paqiuman966]

I've got my Ryzen 5 3600 last week. It's a beast in FL Studio now :D

[@FireWalkMusic]

Congrats :D

[@denkobert2342]

I'm getting my new PC with a Ryzen 5 3600 and an RTX 2060 Super. So hyped!!

[@Ekalavya_]

I'm living in a metropolitan area and am unable to use monitor speakers to mix due to non stop vehicle traffic sounds. But i use Headphones to eq and Earphones to master my track. My Headphones gives me correct eq value of my sounds. And my earphones helps me to recognize the dynamics of it.

[@FireWalkMusic]

My last place had very thin walls and the neighbors would constantly complain, so I had to use headphones as well. I know how it is. It's not ideal, but it's doable as long as you really get to know your headphones. :)

[@Ekalavya_]

@@FireWalkMusic Thanks bro. Was thinking why Firewalk didn't reply to my comment. And here you are! You're a best KZbinr about Music production in FL studio

[@danielronsoistudio1248]

thanks for tutorial

[@FireWalkMusic]

You're welcome :)

[@PK-cs4cb]

Wich monitors is recommended for realy hearing the low end, bass, sub-bass?:) Is everyone suited for this or is it just the size on the woofer thats decide?

[@FireWalkMusic]

Hi, depends on a few things, but generally, larger woofers will be able to reproduce lower frequencies. For bass-heavy music, I would go for an 8" woofer. Note that they require somewhat larger rooms though. My top picks would be either the HS8 or the T8v's. Yamaha HS8: geni.us/Yamaha-HS8 Adam Audio T8v: geni.us/adam-t8v I also have video reviews for both of these in case you want to check those out: HS8: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5uYo6uBZd5nn5o T8V: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqq8nqqJos6ZfsU

[@PK-cs4cb]

@@FireWalkMusic Okei, thank you so much:) Then i will save up for one of them i think.

[@FireWalkMusic]

@@PK-cs4cb You're welcome. They both have cheaper 5 and 7" options as well, but for heavy bass 8" is really the way to go. :)

[@mr.starkmeknofelgud1191]

I use headphones because the walls on my room are made of brick and that's really bad for the frequencies and don't know where to begin with treating it acoustically. If y'all have any advice, please help. Thanks.

[@disturbeddemons1]

Sound foam homie. It won't make everything perfect when on brick vs drywall or wood walls but it's much better than just trying to cope with and make up for the reflected sound.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Acoustic panels will make a huge difference. You can get them cheap off ebay. Even the cheap stuff works quite well. Also place bass traps in the corners. If you don't want to mess up the walls with glue you can take a large piece of cardboard and glue the acoustic panels to it, and then hang it up like a picture. That way the wall is intact, and if you move you can easily bring them with you and just hang them back up in the new room.

[@niscimusic]

I started to produce music like 2-3 years ago and Im still using my 20$ headphones (closed, manufactured for regular listening) :D

[@FireWalkMusic]

Better than nothing! :)

[@electrohouse363]

I'm also this type of situation 🤗

[@cloudscape5996]

Wow, I assume you must be really talented now.. It's been only 3 or 4 months for me tho.. Still a lot things to do..

[@rikkistarrett307]

Whoop whoop! Another great video

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks! Indeed, I've heard good things about those myself. :)

[@mokylarry1525]

I have a problem and a dumb question and fetish maybe if I can say First off I want to know this question or making beats (pre-production) making the beat from start I have HS8 good speakers but my room is not treated right (in my amateur opinion of judging a room because when I stand and move back corner room or .. I like beat better ) I like making loud But I did try headphones for one week and ..... Or made with HS 8 low sounding little better but ..... Idk but What do you think I should do in your opinion...... What I think in back my mind is Buy foam for my walls and bass traps for trap beats And then I’m future add a sub woofer to my HS8 What do you think in your opinion anyone help me And please in detail in lame terms Ps Also with my HS8 I hear a slight buzz I cannnnnnnnn notttttt Get rid of Through the month I have reduced the hum/buzz but I want gone I hate it .... I have tried tried different cables XLR, quarter inch etc......... I want gone I use focusrite 2...... Help me thx nice videos sir

[@FireWalkMusic]

I have a 12" active subwoofer myself, but I rarely use it. The HS8's don't really require a subwoofer. If you introduce too much bass into your system, especially if you also don't have a perfect room with the right dimentions and proper acoustic treatment, you'll have a hard time getting your mixes to sound right since there will be far too much bass, which will cause you to make poor mixing decitions, and the mix will sound very different on other systems later on. I only recommend using the HS8 in medium to large rooms. Make sure that you keep them away from the rear wall and the corners. Also, I recommend getting some foam to treat the walls. It won't really do much for the bass, as it's really just canceling out the mid / hi frequencies, but it's better than nothing. Also, I recommend mixing on low to medium volume. Don't mix on very high volume as that will cause ear fatigue, which will also cause you to make poor mixing decitions.

[@mokylarry1525]

FireWalk thank you last thing I don’t know if I mentioned but I can’t get rid of a slight buzz it was louder but now I still here bothers me I tried 3 different cables quarter inch and the other one I think XLR Cables regular and gold tip ...... I here the hummmm in back round My girlfriend ca t really here it but she can slightly but to me it’s loud (but it’s not just I can hear good and it bothers me .... I’m using focusrite..... any suggestions I have an idea where coming from or a little of the noise I have a external monitor hooked up hdmi when I unplug the hummm gets lower but still there ..... is a that the nature of the beast because I have those connections? (To many wires) and no the wires aren’t touching at all Oh yeah dumb question Why do people use control R to manipulate volume dynamics but others use I can’t remember the shortcut but the other way is I think control E is same volume dynamics I hope you understand I’m saying Now I know the one control R is simple the other way I have to push more buttons and deactivate the other things it can do So do tell me are they the same thing just the other more options or ......... 🎹🎹🎹🎹 Thx for your help

[@AlexejShak]

"Monitors for beginners" - I have no money for such monitors. I don’t even have headphones, but I really want to write music! In my opinion, monitors up to 1000, for example KRK Rokit, can be used by both beginners and professionals! Expensive monitors are needed unless in the studio you still have to spend a lot of money, but in the home studio, it seems to me that monidotra for $ 300 is quite suitable! Of course, I want monitors, otherwise my ears get tired in the headphones, but so far I have only the usual acoustics 2.1. Can you please tell me whether it is possible to do something worthwhile using only such acoustics to create an idea, and then building the levels in the headphones?

[@FireWalkMusic]

Acoustic treatment is important in order to get a decent monitoring environment. For someone starting out, monitors for a couple of hundred bucks will do just fine. Far better than nothing. It doesn't make sense to spend thousands of dollars on monitors if you don't have an optimal monitoring environment (like a typical bedroom for example). :) it's possible to learn to mix on headphones only, but it's hard when you don't have a monitor reference. It's also possible to mix on standard speakers of course, but it's not ideal since they don't have a flat curve. If you have cheap speakers, and a poor mixing environment then headphones might be your best bet.

[@jaxfernandez3684]

In other words, get both, and profit from the advantages of both. Thank you, sir.

[@FireWalkMusic]

pretty much, if you can afford it.

[@IVCMusic]

I have Monitors and headphones, but I mainly produce on headphones because my monitors sound so muddy. I guess I cant place them well. Perhaps I have to buy smaller ones, because I once bought a pair of KRK 10-3 RPG. I make trance music and I dont find my monitors very helpful at this moment :( . Headphones I have beyerdynamic dt 880. But it seems like my interface from Steinberg UR 22 is not strong enough to provide energy for the 250Ohm Headphones. And I dont know how to use or connect a headphone amp. Or which one is good. Also these headphones dont give me much lowend that I need. Im thinking to switch my gear.

[@republicofcasuals]

Always remember, the crowd isn't wearing headphones!

[@FireWalkMusic]

If your monitors are too large for the room then you'll have bass buildup. If you have problems with bass buildup then front ported monitors are recommended. If the room is simply too small, or have too many flat surfaces etc then you'll also get bass buildup. The shape of the room is also important. There's many videos about this available on KZbin. :)

[@IVCMusic]

@@FireWalkMusic thank you lord firewalk!

[@funkerfogt1869]

Bro! Do you really mean that HPS3000's are good for mixing EDM music?

[@FireWalkMusic]

They have gotten some good reviews, but not all headphones are great for all genres. They all have their pros and cons.

[@funkerfogt1869]

@@FireWalkMusic Just I use this phones (HPS3000). Sound great but I don't know what about mixing with them

[@Kwipper]

I live in an apartment, so I have no choice to use headphones. Otherwise, I'll be getting noise complaints.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Valid point. I used to have this problem myself. Some places have very thin walls and I used to be able to hear my neighbors talking all the time. Every time I used my monitors they would complain, even at very low volume, so I was forced to use headphones.

[@furtakdominik5508]

So which option will be better: Buy budget headphones with monitors for example at20,30x with presonous 3.5 Or buy one of the best headphones - beyerdynamic dt 770 pro? Without monitors

[@FireWalkMusic]

That depends. If you're in an apartment with thin walls and sensitive neighbors for example, then investing in headphones might be the way to go. However, if you are able to use monitors then I would start with that, and then get headphones later. As I said, you CAN learn to compensate for any issue related to headphones, but it takes time and you need a good reference. It's generally easier to get good results quicker when starting out with monitors.

[@furtakdominik5508]

@@FireWalkMusic I got you but i have worst acoustic my room include only 3 furniture. It is still worth to buy monitors than headphones in your opinion?

[@furtakdominik5508]

I am also recording in headphones so I cant go in open construction

[@FireWalkMusic]

@@furtakdominik5508 Acoustic treatment doesn't have to be expensive. You could just buy something cheap off ebay for example. That will do the trick nicely. However, if you're also depended on headphones for recording, and you can only afford one, then it seems like you'll have to go for headphones. Just make sure to go for closed headphones though, since they don't bleed into the mic. For mixing, ideally you should use open headphones, but again, that's not ideal for recording.

[@denzel5331]

Dude all you need is span analyzer and gullfoss and your set... as long as you can identify your problems

[@michaelwilliams8781]

That’s easy ... headphones give you tinitus! 🤣

[@FireWalkMusic]

Hearing damage is definitely more of an issue with headphones, so that's definitely something to be mindful of. Tinnitus is something you DON'T want to get... :)

[@Gamervidsman2000]

@@FireWalkMusic What if you already had tinnitus ;''''''''')

[@jordanmiles8615]

JBL MKii 3 series 5” monitors for shape/tone Seinheisser HD600s openback headphones for crystal like details/corrections Dt 770 80ohm closeback headphones for an extra reference Shitty earbuds for hearing what the average person will hear 😂 Computer speaker without enhancements- to check low end presence

[@MrFree-vj8qj]

I'll mix on anything, even the cheapest wallmart gear

[@FireWalkMusic]

:D

[@rapidfiremuzik_official]

Iv had my Beyer DT-770 Pro cans forlikeEverrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr lol, i should get me another pair - the low End is starting to sound distorted and ruff even at low levels LMAOOOOOOOOOOO BUT - in saying this?.........iv always referenced my Mixes across my Cans/Yamaha HS50/Alesis M1 mk2/Auratone ( 1980 model 5c cubes )/Mobile phone/Car & crappy Logitech Speakers everytime im always trying to get better, im NEVER satisfied

[@FireWalkMusic]

Having an optimal monitoring environment and good monitors will make mixing much easier. That said, it IS possible to mix even on crappy gear, as long as you know how things translate to it. I recommend listening to a lot of commercial music, that way you learn how it should sound on that particular piece of gear. :)

[@user-yo1cv2me5l]

How It's Made-Music

[@jthrilla84]

Both in mono

[@Reav.]

Wow I appear in the video! I'm in 1:55, because I'm trash

[@FireWalkMusic]

😂

[@JoaoVictor-er9yw]

I prefer headphones!

[@1linkjimmy]

I use headphone

[@808mike]

2:59 is this Poppy or am I seeing things? 😲

[@Foxy994Anime]

For me "if" i have monitors i go with that it lessen to stress my ears resulting for more hours in mixing and feel the sounds in an room environment.... but yeah cons is for adjusting small details in mixing... and Fuck neighbors they only do is listen on ur mixing from their home they will just complain if they are not in EDM or not like ur tracks Dont forget that our ears have a fatigue that resulting more confusion on mixing.... thats why bassjacker said "always take a break for 30-1 hour so that ur ears can be rested and regain its neutral hearing"

[@FireWalkMusic]

Very true. It's important to take frequent brakes. Especially when using headphones. Neighbors and thin walls can indeed be an obstacle. It's no fun when the neighbors are constantly knocking on the door, telling you to turn down the volume. That can certainly kill any creative vibe you might have there and then. Unfortunately there are some things you just don't have control over. :) That said, there's no rule that says that it has to be 100% quiet at all times. At least where I live, at least some noise has to be tolerated between 07:00 and 23:00 :)

[@Suchitttt]

I prefer headphone because my mother is religious and I don't have a separate room to bang the noise.

[@FireWalkMusic]

Good point! :)

[@zocc116]

monitors. my tinnitusssssss agrees...

[@FireWalkMusic]

Sorry to hear that. The problem with headphones is that you tend to get used to the volume after a while, and then you turn it up and up until you eventually get gradual hearing damage. Not to mention the risk of the volume being set too loud by accident, and you press play while wearing them. Monitors are much safer overall.

[@zocc116]

@@FireWalkMusic i could add damage from those sony walkmans in the 80's, riding bikes without a helmet, loud concerts like motorhead (four times:), 20 y of print industry (40meters long news print machines are loud, man), loud music in the car (those subs were rippin' holes in the space-time continuum), laptop remixing (headphones!), dj-ing in bunkers (so-called "clubs" with horrible equipment), a decade of shooting and editing music videos for mostly punk and metal bands. and endless nights fruity loopin', which i still do and love every second of it. constant high pitch white noise is always there, can't filter it out :)

[@giulioboobzilla]

Cool Video, but don’t support da Amazon Mafia

[@FireWalkMusic]

Thanks. It's the one store that's available to everyone everywhere. It's just too difficult to find local shops to link to that will be relevant to everyone. :\

[@giulioboobzilla]

FireWalk if U really want it U could get it from sumwhere without amazon

[@selevabeats]

I use my jbl bluetooth speaker 😭😭lmao

[@FireWalkMusic]

Not ideal, but better than nothing! :)

[@DanielEstrada-nr1pb]

Lmao

[@Pixeltruppen]

Mastering is an art in itself. You should never use headphones.

[@FireWalkMusic]

It's funny, we said the exact same thing in our "mixing and masteirng explained" video. Mastering is something you have to learn to do over time, by trial and error. It's not a simple set of instructions like: if this do that and so on. Every case is unique and it takes a trained ear to know what's needed in every situation. I mostly use monitors myself, as this will give the most realistic reproduciton of the music that translates well to most other systems and environments. That said, there are cases where headphones are preferable, such as fine-tuning / editing, vocal tracking etc. :)