Top 10 Mix Mistakes (Part 1) - Into The Lair #54

[@RomanTTBelow]

I love the internet and this generation. The information is just out there and you can really become anything you want if you're looking. Great points as always.

[@frostmutant4882]

Ⓡomans Ⓜess Exactly what I wanted to comment here! I always said I should have been born like before 1970 or so that I would have lived the 80´s with full power but the possibilities of today with all this knowledge being just a few click away is just so amazing! But it wouldn´t be there without these amazing guys like Dave :)

[@NastyHigh]

+Roman TTB +Ⓡomans Ⓜess - Yes bro! Good comment!

[@RickDrift]

its always inspiring to think that way, but you will never have the edge on a music theory student who studies music through and through.

[@davidparkes1391]

Roman TTB So true!!

[@RickDrift]

thats called marketing

[@nicholasriley4729]

"Don't set levels based on a text book... set levels by your feelings, by your emotions." So true. Excellent piece of advice for any engineer in today's world.

[@BillWhite]

Thank you Dave. I can't come close to expressing how much appreciation for how much knowledge you convey in these videos, and how much I've grown from them.

[@LilAngelRebel]

As soon as the second mix played, I immediately thought, "Wow!" Subtle changes can make a night and day difference in a mix. (I've used the low volume and walking out of the room techniques for years, now. I lifted it from "The Mixing Engineer's Handbook", but I don't think I have the ear or the experience you do to really help me prevent the muddy mess my mixes always become.) Thank you for this informative video! These tips will definitely be joining the post it notes that line my equipment.

[@ZergMazter]

God I just love how much brighter his mix sounds. Its a change from heaven to earth. At least thats my personal taste. And the delay on the guitar I also loved!

[@RishyCupTV]

So good! And I love how you can feel his passionate frustration with his students 😂😂😂

[@xXxTHEBEATMAKERxXx]

You helped out so much, I love my mixes now and people love them too now from all the stuff i learned watching you. Thanks so much for your vids keep up the great work!

[@mattsdf7261]

Finally some clear and concise information. Favorite channel along these lines so far.

[@filardo9617]

I have watched this a handful of times in the morning before I mix. A legitimately priceless resource for me. Sincere thanks. Love The PLACE!!

[@AdamTheAd-vanc3d]

I have always sworn by the rule of listening with your ears and not your eyes. Also good to hear that technique of leaving the room and getting diffrent persrpectives. Really helps with balance big time.

[@AdamTheAd-vanc3d]

+chaoslink20 very very true. I think the tendancy with digital and mixing in the box is to be heavily reliant on visual assistance.

[@Deshcordon]

Thank you! I've been mixing for years and this one video changed the game for me.

[@JemileDancer]

so good ..i learn so much watching these videos ....we are lucky to have someone helping us like this

[@andreacaccese]

I actually have to say that I enjoy the kick in the first draft more. I know it's muddier and less clear, but in a way it complements the relatively weak low end of that particular part of the song and the brightness of the guitars. Plus, it gives a slightly lo fi vibe to it that I enjoy. Either way, I understand the decision and, your mix concept is still awesome!

[@JStolarski]

Great vid, I'm watching this for a second time, and it's one of those little gems on youtube, thank you

[@ballenonlocation]

I agree Andrea

[@CurtisGabrielMusic]

The rough mix sounds more impressive in the low end, but boring. Daves mix has emotion and energy.

[@cristhianbedoya2034]

sometimes we just listen to many producers and many other people´s thoughts, but you feel and know when someone has been doing it right for quite a long time, thanks man right from COLOMBIA LATAM

[@Spoolz07]

Superb considered advice as always, Dave. I count my generation extremely fortunate that we can benefit from top-notch experience and insight like yours in this way.

[@D1rtyraver]

These videos are all GOLDEN. I wish I had these when I was starting out. Thank you, Mr Pensado.

[@JaydotBeats]

This is very super helpful! Im aboout to take in Part 2! A Big Thank you to Pensado & Pensado's Team!

[@FabioPoianMusic]

Thanks for all you do Dave!!I watch all your videos religiously, love learning from you! You are the man!!

[@monsterjazzlicks]

Very interesting to hear of an 'emotional' approach to Mixing as opposed to just being 'textbook' or 'theoretical'.

[@tpthai2]

My first thought even before listening is about Dave. Dave sharing his passion and expertise with anyone that cares to listen. All good things to you Dave.

[@AngryOscillator]

Energy and EMOTION. A sensitivity to the musical content/"narrative". It's lost, it's detached, it's reflective. Its rather 80s IMO; can almost smell the dry ice! The kick gives it a back bone, keeps it rooted. Its not a 'typical' mix and as such it stands out. Sure its like marmite - you'll either love it or hate - but you'll certainly notice it. I'm not sure about the vocal, but the kick and guitar I could listen to for hours! Most important part of this video. The 'Balance' section. A balanced mix is my No.1 struggle at the moment.

[@BoomMediaOfficial]

We all came here to listen to his fine knowledge and understanding not to compare his former and latter workpieces. His BALANCE technique may just be what i need, thanks for that good sir. youre agood teacher

[@newburyportvideo]

I really envy most of you mixing guys that can do a good job. I lost about 60% of my hearing in my right ear and about 20% in my left ear due to explosions. I depend on my Izotope plugins and meters a lot for the audio book editing I do for my wife. The one little point you mentioned about going out in the hall and listening to your mix can make all the difference in the world. If I can hear it out there I'm pretty dam sure you can hear it in the same room with your speakers. If you have any more subtle suggestions like that one I would love to hear them. Thanks and best regards.

[@jackpaice]

"clock!" love it ahahah

[@TexasJackdaw]

I always pick up something I can use from your videos. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience.

[@LRCProductionsTV]

Those drums made a big difference and the ruff mix had the vocal past the back of my head. Sounds great and thanks for the video!

[@davida6421]

Dave !!! The best sound and master class tutorials 👍 👍 👍 👍 👍

[@dreaminginnoother]

dave, you are awesome for posting all these videos. What a wealth of information you have provided. I keep adding more of your videos to my watch later list, but there's too many! I gotta pick and choose for the sake of time, but thank you.

[@ishagshafeeg]

Fantastic and quite smart! Thank you for your invaluable information.

[@dunlapmusic8850]

I'm still learning, but I find the part about going into the next room useful. I'll do that, walk around the room I'm mixing in, or sit at the far end of the room with my back to the speakers and cup my ears.

[@gerryaire]

when i play my mixes, i sometimes leave the room -- and never come back

[@thomas-vk4vc]

:D :D D

[@bhargavdobhal5327]

Thank You Mr Dave Pensado 🙌🙌 Vey Helpful Video🔥🔥.

[@zoqyrecords9716]

Thanks for the tips! They help a ton! I actually liked the first mix a lot, but it gets fatiguing after a while, and the second one sounds amazing!

[@JustK009]

Excellent! That little bit helped me in this project..Thanks!

[@1927bluesrob]

Some excellent advice here, thanks for sharing.

[@hisroyalness2]

NOV of 12 - Top 10 Mix Mistakes (Part 1) Nice conversational info that transcends equipment and applies to projects from starting concept to finished product.

[@MrROTD]

Dynamics is how I describe a mix that sounds good to me, a bad mix sounds flat and a good one is dynamic

[@sirvaant]

Great job! I personally liked the energy of the kick and the vocal presence in the first mix although the second sounded a touch cleaner, to me it sounded like the second mix lost it's energy and presence but if the sculpture is happy with it then I can dig it, thanks again for vids and info!

[@shees66]

I think you have a problem with your ears :D

[@xMiyazakiAkira]

Best advice ever is setting levels based on feeling

[@deetgeluid]

Talking about balance, I once learned a trick to now and again listen to the balance on a real low level. When there's something missing, it is probably to soft on a louder level, due to the non-linearity of your hearing. This might be a bit extreme, but I heard some mixes, and caught myself doing a mix, where if you played it really softly, certain stuff would almost disappear. So yeah, listen at different levels, and different environments.

[@romenpheonixx7005]

Great mix! You sat the vocals in very well.

[@j.g.195]

Very good information, So how do I enter the mixing contest ?

[@DenisG7]

That convenient "Clock!" message on the table..) you are so true _)

[@joeyblack174]

Too much reverb on the vocals, as for me. Or I would say, not entirely successful choice of the reverb.

[@ATMA_STUDIO]

True ! Too much reverb on the voice...it sounds way far in the back and the guitar is too muddy... it doesn't have that top freq's to give it a clear sound. I have lot of respect for old engineers but guys... we are in 2016 !!! Keep up with the times !

[@Petekhalil1]

I'll trust Dave pensados judgement over you guy. You should too.

[@mminjarez]

Mixing hits is about finding the energy, thats why his mix sounds like a hit and their demo sounds like well a demo.

[@Rexl12]

yes too true. i produce, and ive only recently realized that the EQ is the most powerful tool i have, so many of the trippiest, most enjoyable sounds i've made were pretty much just the result of intelligent EQing. It's also allowed me to stuff my productions with more synths than i thought possible (or reasonable) without them muddying anything up or taking away from each other.

[@steveb7714]

Thanks Dave, I believe you're right in saying that it's not some stock formula or textbook process, but rather how the mix and the levels on each instrument impact the feeling of the song. Hey, where can I get one of those cool spectrum analyzers like the one in your video?

[@HOGGBEATZ]

Great advice sir! I've been making beats (HipHop) for a few years now just as a hobby. a few artist liked my style and so I've taken a more professional outlook on the process. I recently learned how to "Balance" my sounds and pan them. I Love how you broke down a "Target(s)" for mixing. things to pay attention to the most. That's great advice!! And mostly I Love how you said Mix from the Heart, feelings>> THUMBS UP! Keep these videos coming man!

[@mlisunep]

feelings and emotions. YES!!!! Thank you Sir

[@WillyFranklinOnBass]

Dave.... I LOVE your videos!! Thanks!!!

[@ginotarabotto]

Super helpful topic. Thanks!

[@yougotta2505]

you cleared up a lot for me with this video. thank you so much.

[@Saskiequelle]

A 2:13 UnMixed B 2:37 Mixed

[@mikemiller290]

+Saskiequelle I think you have it the other way around man

[@Kharrari]

I agree

[@V12_smoke]

The rough mix sounds better to me 🤷‍♂️

[@moyah88]

hi there yes going into another room or further ..away ... for listening certainly gives u a good clue if the balance is good

[@matrixate]

zeo bas +1 You know...that secret tip has other incredible uses as well. :)

[@bubbles6044]

+TheChosenOne like..?

[@gregoryiscrazy]

great advice, I will def be using these tips! thank you for this video!!!

[@JamesRossMusicdotcom]

All this opinionated negativity out there for nothing... I prefer your remix and I prefer the kick you're using... Dave, you can mix for me any day and twice on Sunday!!

[@j2j_5675]

Awesome tips Dave

[@Cyge240sx]

How the fuck have I not heard of this channel before? This guy is absolutely legit!

[@JNpMusic1]

real skill here for sure. that song was very nice.

[@catinahat93]

Great video, I've learnt so much from u'r videos! Is there any chance you could tell me what band/artist this is?

[@JMKInstrumentals]

why did you take away the awesome bass at 2.40??

[@nutsosix7930]

for sure. been doing stuff on chaingang for time to time i mix it up. same bass, vocal, guitar, synth, backup vocal,pad, sound fxs. balance. balance balance. you want the cleanest takes you can get. but what is your take on the new stuff coming out now like effects atl to the audio region on the file itself. in the right hands, i think it would be wide in dimension. i think it would be tight on guitars. what do you think. example it bitwig and studio one 3.2.2 in bitwig theres this drop onto fx and you can eq the bass line. how do we do that with any other daw? Its just a chain, anything special behind that???

[@abstractg9589]

I pretty much do all of these things before I even come up with the first chord. I tend to have a visual of the song (video, movie scene, situation, etc), then i build from there. As soon as I can think of a "plot" to the song I pretty much know how I wana mix it. Whether it be dark with some warmth, or sparkly with lots of intensity, I pretty much mix the beat in my head before I've even started making it. I think thats how I choose what sounds I want to work with as well. I have to know that I can fit it in the mix perfect before I can use it

[@jdubmuzic1]

I have a question. You said you didn't touch the vocal, but on the ruff mix when the vocal comes in with that "How come im.." i hear the high end being a little harsh (maybe around 10k+), but on your mix, that subtle kind of harsh sound completely goes away. Is that simply changing the balance of the guitar or what?

[@MartinRyleOShea]

This man is a god of mixing (and seems to be a lovely guy), can mix anything!

[@08whaley]

This guy is the truth!!!!!!! Love it!!!!!

[@MontanaJoeMontanaJose]

THANKS KILLLA KILLA. Your tips are helpful. If you put in the work, you can make it really shine. Thanks so much again and again. - MONTANA JOSE, MJ

[@JayPeek]

I have to save this under a different name- but the title got my attention! This is great stuff- along the lines of Booby Owsinski.

[@br1anhuh]

I always misread it "Pensado's Palace," which it should be, considering how much knowledge this guy shares. Palace of knowledge

[@AndrewValdovinos]

This is amazing! Thank you so much for your professional help!

[@karakta2262]

..this guy is awesome....dam...thanks! much respect!

[@darrenvegasmusic]

love your vids man always great info thanks

[@LowveeCole]

Love your videos! I'm just starting to produce my own material, and your vids have been a huge help! Thanks! x

[@PRSOne]

Funky enough, initially I agreed that adding the room to the kick took out too much energy. Then I realized his point; no one's going to hear that low frequency thump on laptop speakers, and by adding room, he maintained an energetic feel that transcends speaker capabilities (or lack thereof.)

[@markcoffield6876]

This is a great great great video. Thanks Dave!

[@EclipseSound]

he's right about the balance the same thing applies to spectral edits on synth waveforms.

[@kromanoidx]

00:00 Look at his right hand LMAO

[@PatchInAudio]

Kroma CSGO made my day 😂

[@tutubeos]

Great man!!! As always!

[@aljamesproductions]

Superb tips! Thanks Dave!

[@petecatt]

Just listen at a classic level.

[@ArthurXandTheScars]

Yes, hear a great difference 🐵. Specially when the synth sounds cut in. That is turned into magic. And the voice is also a little more separated.

[@PeteWojMusic]

He's a genius.

[@deejaydmx303]

Good stuff and insight

[@bergg2009]

Thanks, I allways check this sort of videos to get different oppinions or common ways to do stuff. A list of the 10 Mistakes (text) would've been nice, just to save some time for some people.

[@shine2699]

Audio technica m50 x or beyerdynamic 770 Pro 250 ohm which headphone is better for mixing and mastering??? Please answer me

[@hamidalatas1280]

The best from youtube.. can you share how to EQ all of the instruments to fit great in the mix?

[@wonekawa]

Again great advice, but honestly I hate the sound of that kick. I suppose it's a personal taste thing, but I do really appreciate your videos, as they are filled with valuable tips and approaches for recording and I will continue to watch them. Many thanks!

[@ravipatel89]

Very usefull video..thanks .. Can u pls tell me how u mixed background strings...i m not able to achive quality of strings like u...plss help me out...

[@WhoresOfBabylon]

not keen on the new bass drum, would have gone for something more `Electronic`, just my opinion mind

[@tynickxo2273]

i love the new bass drum personally!

[@Hitrate]

Thanks man. Psyked to have "found" your channel :)

[@Psqwall]

I really want to know what that tin can on the desk is ? I really hope its an echo chamber

[@RicardoSilva-jj6rg]

what are those boxes, guys? Avatones ? or the classics auratone ? Thx for the great input !

[@sweliam1]

Ricardo Silva looks like Avatones. Auratones are usually brown.

[@J1Z06]

Mixing, my nemesis!! I spent $11,000 on my debut cd "Anything for you" and never got to the 100% satisfied level. Sooner or later, you have to let it go.....it was a hard thing to do! This is a great video. We hear the song differently than an engineer will. Fact.

[@SamBorgman]

I'm so torn! Original mix had more presence in vocal but volume too high. Your mix makes the vocal sit better but takes some life and clarity out of it. Your kick is better but original was warmer, as soon as the music started it gave me that oomphy feel, yours didn't but it sounded more pro? I have no idea which I would go with.

[@sirlordcomixx1]

That,s why it still about personal ideas, take in what people say but make your own mind up also.

[@DJURBANBG]

great one

[@demodeiowa]

What's are the small speakers sitting on top of his NS10m's with the Pensado logo on em n what purpose do they serve

[@bmusician08]

@5:26 do you mean reverb when you say echo? Thank you very the videos.

[@leandrolehart8847]

pretty cool, important advices my man. blessing

[@danjwalker]

I think people's perception of the second mix is interesting. I see a lot of comments about how the vocals are too far behind the music/quite. I think that's because the demo version had the vocals way too high. Then when the A/B comparison was made, the vocals in the second mix sounded much more quiet. If you were to listen to the second version without immediately comparing, it would sound much different. :)

[@freddifree]

This is great, I really wanted to learn how to make more mistakes! My mixes always tend to sound too good! ;-)

[@CabooseNor]

I just bought myself a high quality set of headphones (Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro), and I'm hearing some clipping in this video, especially in the first mix. Is this a limitation of youtube or is something wrong on my end? Could it be my soundcard? I'm using a standard built in Realtek sound card on my motherboard. Could that be the reason, or does everyone get this? (it's really annoying)

[@DajuOnYoutube]

I could hear it on 30$ speakers on normal volume, barely but i heard it before i read this and thought that would be one of the problems or something lol.

[@LilyArciniega]

i'm pretty sure it's youtube.

[@SamBorgman]

yeah heard it too, good to know its not my speakers!

[@JasonFerguson1283]

Great advice! Thanks, Dave!