When I have to make a mix, first thing I do is identify the different tracks that the client have sent to me, gathering takes and grouping instruments according to their role in the mix (rhythm section, bass, solo, decorations, etc. .. .) to achieve an agrupation of tracks.

Thereafter I make a primal mix moving volumes and panoramic.

Then I begin to apply compressors and equalizers to all tracks. Broadly speaking, with compression I search a better integration of each instrument, and with equalization I remove unnecessary frequencies, conflicts between instruments and give personality to each one getting the better of them. I can apply these effects for separate and/or groups depending on the case and the number of instruments.

Following is applying reverb, if necessary, to give more dimension to the mix. Finally I also will use some special effect if its needed or requested by the customer.

Throughout the process I can detect noises, things out of tempo or out of tune wich I will fix on the fly. It may also occur a problem that has no remedy, for which I will request a rerecording of the particular track. Or it may be that it is necessary to record an additional track for a more finished work. Even I can record it myself.

Once at this point I apply a mastering process, essentially to increase the overall volume. I do it in a way similar to what I explain in "How do I master", but simpler because in this case I can intervene in the mix if I want to change anything.

The effects that I apply are all digital.

Once completed, I send the resulting file to the client so he can hear it and comment on the work. Normally there would be things to polish either because the client wants a change or have to re-record a track or because I have missed something, so I always have to make revisions until reaching the final version. This may take a few days depending on how long takes the client to respond and send me what is missing.