The Importance of Balance: Build a Solid Mix

What Is Balance and Why Do We Need It?

There is a lot of incorrect information about mixing. It might seem logical to think that using thirty compressors, EQs, and a host of other effects makes up a mix, but that is not necessarily true. In fact, excessive use of effects can ruin something you have worked on for a long time (I admit I have overloaded channels with effects even when they were not really needed).

When an experienced engineer starts mixing for a client, the very first step is to listen to the song or track and consider the next steps. Immediately after making those decisions, the focus turns to establishing balance—the relative volumes of all the instruments throughout the track—before even applying any effects on the inserts.

By achieving balance, you create stability throughout the song so that no instrument overpowers another. This allows the listener to naturally focus on the key elements, whether that’s the rhythm or the vocal. Balance glues the instruments together and ensures that your mix translates accurately across home systems, large setups, or even in a car, just as it does on your monitors, speakers, or headphones.

It is a good idea to export your track before beginning the balancing process. This exported version serves as a reference, allowing you to compare how the mix sounded before and after your adjustments. Next, mute all channels in your project and start by unmuting the first instrument that feels right. For example, you might begin with the rhythm section by unmuting the kick drum. Adjust its volume until it sounds just right, then move on to the next element—whether it’s a snare, clap, or hi-hat. For each channel, lower its volume completely at first and then gradually raise it until you find the right balance with the kick drum. Continue this process until the entire rhythm section sounds cohesive.

Once the rhythm section is balanced, apply the same method to other elements such as bass, synths, and effects. The goal is to create a mix where every section sounds integrated and clear. You can always refer back to your exported version to perform an A/B comparison and better understand the impact of your adjustments.

Always remember that the listener does not notice compressors or EQ—they hear volumes and stability. The character added by compression, EQ, and other effects will come later and give your track its unique personality, whether it’s airy, dark, aggressive, or soft.

This balance stage lays the foundation for a strong and stable mix. If you have a track that lacks energy, even if you feel it has potential, try removing all the effects related to dynamics and color. Focus solely on adjusting the volumes. You may be surprised at how the track comes back to life and gains a cohesion that no other tool can provide.

Important Note: Do not delete anything related to sound design. If you have worked on a source and brought it to its intended state, simply lower its volume instead of removing its insert, and incorporate it into the mix using volume adjustments only.