5 Mixing Myths That Are Ruining Your Sound

5 Mixing Myths That Are Ruining Your Sound

When it comes to mixing, there’s no shortage of myths, misconceptions, and bad advice floating around. Whether you’re an indie artist, a producer, or just someone trying to get the best out of your music, you’ve probably heard a few “rules” that might be holding you back. Today, we’re setting the record straight by busting some of the biggest mixing myths!

Myth #1: “You Must Mix at the Same Volume Every Time”

While consistency in listening levels can help with accuracy, the idea that you should mix at one set volume is misleading. The truth? You should check your mix at different levels. Mixing at lower volumes helps prevent ear fatigue and ensures your mix translates well to quieter listening environments. Cranking it up occasionally can reveal hidden energy in your track, but don’t rely on high volumes to make a mix sound good.

Myth #2: “Fix It in the Mix”

This is one of the most dangerous myths in music production. Mixing can enhance and balance elements, but it can’t completely fix poor recordings or bad performances. If something doesn’t sound good in the raw recording, it won’t magically sound great in the mix. Always aim to get the best possible sound at the recording stage.

Myth #3: “You Need Expensive Gear to Get a Great Mix”

While high-end equipment can make a difference, a great mix is more about skill, technique, and understanding of the tools you have. Many incredible mixes have been created using stock plugins and budget setups. It’s not about what you have—it’s about how you use it.

Myth #4: “More Plugins = A Better Mix”

Layering plugins unnecessarily can often do more harm than good. Over-processing can introduce unwanted artefacts and make a mix feel lifeless. Instead, focus on using fewer, high-impact adjustments. EQ, compression, and reverb used wisely can do wonders without stacking plugin after plugin.

Myth #5: “Always Mix in Solo Mode”

Soloing a track can be helpful to identify specific issues, but mixing should always be done in the context of the whole song. A vocal or instrument might sound great on its own but could clash when everything is playing together. Mix with everything in context to achieve balance and cohesion.

Final Thoughts

Remember: Mixing is an art and a science. Always trust your ears, experiment, and focus on what serves the music best.

If you’re working on a project and want professional help bringing your mix to life, Studio Chaddy offers top-tier remote mixing and mastering services. Let’s make your tracks sound incredible—get in touch today!