What is mixing and mastering?

[Pulver]

I've been producing for a couple years, tapping my hands and feet for 30 years.

"Mixing and Mastering," seems to be viewed as this Yoda-like practice that only a few can accomplish.

What exactly is "Mixing," and "Mastering," in separate terms? Quite frankly, the majority of the instrumentals I finish, sound superb to most that I hear from unheard talent. (Biased, assuredly.)

So, I'm curious to if there's a true definition (technical, frequency related, etc.) to mixing and mastering or if it's just the layman's terms of referring to 'final sound quality?'

I don't know half the stuff some people talk about in this forum, facebook groups, other internet posses or message boards. But, I've sold several instrumentals and made a living off of it.

So, FP, I'm curious, WTF EXACTLY.. I mean EXACTLY, is mixing and mastering? I'm beyond sick of hearing those terms and hearing no diference in before and after.

You either make good instrumentals or you don't.

 

[mitchiemasha]

Mastering...

the majority of the instrumentals I finish, sound superb to most that I hear from unheard talent. (Biased, assuredly.)

But if you were to commit that mix to vinyl would it sound the best it possibly could? You'd of needed someone experienced in pressing vinyls. Experienced at the specific press at that vinyl house to achieve the best possible results.

You've got to think about were these things evolved form, then it makes sense.

Mixing.
A drummer plays drums, a singer sings, guitarist... well you get it. Can they mix the song??? Each usually specialise in their field, that's how they excel. If you try to do it all. You'll only get half they way.

 

[rhythmgj]

Search the stickies, use Google. This has been covered hundreds of times here at FP and on the web (exactly!!). And please do not use rude language; it will not stand you on good stead here...

As to hearing the difference, you either need to train your ears, or find better examples of mixes and mastered mixes.

 

[rhythmgj]

Topics covered previously; question asked improperly...