MIXING

Mixing is the technique of blending all of the individual tracks in a recording to create a version of the song that sounds as good as possible. This is called "the mix”.

The process can be comprised of:

• Balancing the levels of the tracks that have been recorded
• Fine-tuning the sound of each instrument or voice using equalization (EQ)
• “Panning” the tracks between speakers to create a stereo image
• Adding reverb, compression, and other effects to enhance the original recording

Mixing sometimes includes a bit of editing – choosing the best bits of every take of a song, and sometimes even building musical elements from scratch. Sometimes there is so much editing involved it forms a separate stage in between tracking and mixing.

MASTERING

Mastering is the process of turning a song or collection of songs into a final master for manufacturing so that it translates well across systems: CD player, radio, computer, car stereo, phone, etc. 

The process involves:

• Balancing the level and tonal balance (EQ) of songs
• Controlling the dynamic range - how loud and quiet each section is, for the right musical balance of variety and power
• Compressing, EQing, M/S Processing and Limiting so the song is polished
• Creating a secure, reliable manufacturing master, including PQ information, UPC/EAN codes, ISRCs, CD-Text
  
  This can vary from being a very subtle process, involving minor tweaks to polish the existing mixes, to occasionally being a complete rescue mission for problem songs, or where detailed restoration is needed.