What should a balanced mix look like?

What should a balanced mix look like?

A balanced mix (or flat, if you prefer) usually has a full range of frequencies more or less hitting 0dB on an FFT reader. You can go -/+3dB around it, but keeping it around 0 is the best. For electronic music, it’s pretty normal to have the low end sticking out by about +3dB though.

What can I do with a spectrum analyzer?

A spectrum analyzer is a device that measures and displays signal amplitude (strength) as it varies by frequency within its frequency range (spectrum). The frequency appears on the horizontal (X) axis, and the amplitude is displayed on the vertical (Y) axis.

How are spectrum analyzers used in music mixing?

Audio spectrum analysis is a useful aid in music production, mixing, and mastering processes. There are several ways to use a spectrum analyzer. Learn how to use a spectrum analyzer to improve your mix or listening environment with these five methods: 1. Identify Resonance Problems

How do I change the span of the spectrum analyzer?

Pressing the SPAN button brings up the frequency span menu. Here you select the frequency span displayed on the screen (as opposed to selecting start and stop frequencies), and you can select span zoom, zero span, and full span. At zero span, or no frequency sweep, the spectrum analyzer will display the time domain input – this is often useful.

How can I monitor the tonal balance of a mix?

Spectrum analyzers are the primary tools for monitoring the tonal balance of a mix. Insert a spectrum analyzer plugin at the end of the device chain on the mater channel. Then, set the spectrum response to a slow speed so it displays an average reading. A slower response time averages short-term peaks and shows a smoother frequency curve.

What are resonance spikes on a spectrum analyzer?

Addressing harsh resonance spikes is crucial. They cause several mix issues and are unpleasant sounding. Resonances are easy to spot on a spectrum analyzer. They show up as sharp, narrow peaks in the upper midrange or broader bumps in the lower mids and lows.