Mixing Synths
(Three Steps to Better Sounding and Standing Out Synths)
Finding sounds to virtual instruments such as synths can be a hard task of its own, but what comes after that? How can you make them fit in the mix and sound awesome? In this video I show you three steps to make synths better sounding and stand out in the mix. Mixing synths after this will be a lot easier.
As you can hear in the video, the synths sound much more exciting and they stand out from the mix. The first step to achieve this is EQ.
EQ – Step 1
Mix in mono while using EQ. This way you hear better where to boost and cut frequencies. You can cut some of the lows and highs with low and high cut filters and boost some high end from around 8 kHz upwards.
The main thing however, is to boost presence frequencies somewhere from 1 – 2,5 kHz. Find a frequency that makes the synths pop out of the mix while listening in mono and boost it a bit. This will help the synths to cut through mix.
Compression – Step 2
Step two is compression. Compression makes the synth more even as it reduces its dynamics. This will make every note audible for the listener. Not a single note gets lost in the mix. You can use any compressor for this.
Saturation / Distortion – Step 3
Saturation or subtle distortion can create wonders. It fills up the sound making it fuller, warmer and more unique. The listener doesn’t perceive it as distorted synth, but rather as more interesting sound.
The point of distortion / saturation is not to be an obvious effect, but rather add fullness and character. You can use any saturation, distortion, bitcrusher or harmonic exciter plugin for this purpose.
All of these steps alone are pretty subtle, but together they add up quickly – especially once you apply all three steps to every synth track. The next time you’re mixing synths, try the three steps: EQ, compression and saturation / distortion.
Hopefully you found this post helpful. If there’s anything you want me to cover in the future videos let me know. Send me an email or leave a comment below. Ask if there’s anything unclear or if I left something out. Cheers!
