Navigating the mix-space : theoretical and practical level-balancing technique in multitrack music mixtures

TLDR: In this paper, a method of transformation from a gain-space to a mix-space using a novel representation of the individual track gains is introduced, and an experiment is conducted in order to obtain time-series data of mix engineers exploration of this space as they adjust levels within a multitrack session to create their desired mixture.

Abstract: The mixing of audio signals has been at the foundation of audio production since the advent of electrical recording in the 1920’s, yet the mathematical and psychological bases for this activity are relatively under-studied. This paper investigates how the process of mixing music is conducted. We introduce a method of transformation from a “gain-space” to a “mix-space”, using a novel representation of the individual track gains. An experiment is conducted in order to obtain time-series data of mix engineers exploration of this space as they adjust levels within a multitrack session to create their desired mixture. It is observed that, while the exploration of the space is influenced by the initial configuration of track gains, there is agreement between individuals on the appropriate gain settings required to create a balanced mixture. Implications for the design of intelligent music production systems are discussed.