A well-organised project not only saves time but also allows me to focus entirely on sound rather than fixing avoidable issues and troubleshooting. Following these preparation guidelines for mixing and mastering give you everything you need to know about file formats, labelling and organisation so your project is ready for collaboration.
1. File Types
- Export each individual track as a WAV file.
- Avoid combining multiple elements (e.g. vocal harmonies or guitar layers) into a single track. Instead, separate each element onto its own track.
- Most production software (DAWs) allows you to bulk export all tracks as individual WAV files—refer to your DAW’s manual or do a quick Google search to find out how.
2. Track Labelling
- Clearly label each track with the instrument name and track type. (e.g. “Vocals Lead”, “Vocals Harmony”, “Drums Snare”, “Drums Kick”. Labelling makes it much easier to organise and identify each track during mixing so please take the time to do this.
3. Crossfades
- Add short crossfades to the beginning and end of all audio regions and between any edits. This prevents unwanted pops or clicks caused by abrupt audio transitions. There is usually a way to do this for all audio regions in your DAW.
4. Programmed Drums
- Export each drum (e.g., kick, snare, overheads) as separate audio tracks.
- Provide the MIDI file of the drum performance.
- Let me know which drum library or software you used (e.g. Superior Drummer 3).
5. Bass Guitar
- Include the unprocessed DI (Direct Input) track of the bass guitar.
- Include your amped tone as a seperate track (if applicable).
7. Guitar Tracks
- For electric guitars, include both the DI track (if available) and the amped tone.
- Ensure that any amp simulations or effects applied are rendered to separate tracks.
8. Vocals
- Provide raw, unprocessed vocal tracks. Avoid adding reverb and delay unless it is essential to the sound.
- Include separate tracks for lead vocals, harmonies, doubles etc
9. References
- Provide a professionally mixed reference track that reflects the sound and style you’re aiming for.
- Provide your rough mix for me to understand any creative decisions.
10. Mix Notes
- If there are specific effects you want on certain tracks or at certain time please make note of them and the time stamp or bar number it should occur.
- Provide the tempo (BPM) of the song. This is critical for time-based effects, quantisation, and alignment.
- If applicable, provide the key of the song for pitch correction or tuning purposes.
By following these Preparation Guidelines for Mixing and Mastering you’ll allow me to focus on your music rather than troubleshooting issues and wasting time navigating your session, leading to a smoother and more efficient workflow.