Over the years, the art of music mixing has changed dramatically as technology has advanced and industry standards have changed. Today, music mixing is a dynamic field where creativity meets cutting-edge innovation, allowing engineers to craft increasingly complex sounds. Today I will explore the current state of music mixing and highlight popular trends, techniques, and technologies in conjunction with what I have learned this semester.
Immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio are becoming increasingly popular. These formats add height channels to traditional surround sound, creating a three-dimensional listening experience. This trend is particularly prominent in film and gaming, but it is also making its way into music production, providing listeners with a more engaging and enveloping audio experience (Holman, 2020). Additionally, many engineers are combining digital and analog techniques to take advantage of the strengths of both. Analog gear, such as outboard compressors and EQs, is valued for its warmth and character, while digital tools offer precision and flexibility. This hybrid approach allows for richer, more textured sounds (Pensado’s Place, 2018).
The current state of music mixing is characterized by a fusion of advanced technology and creative artistry. Digital tools and artificial intelligence are making the mixing process more efficient, while trends like immersive audio and hybrid mixing are pushing the boundaries of the space. By staying abreast of these developments and incorporating best practices from industry leaders, mixers can continue to craft compelling and innovative sounds.
As someone who produces music, being aware of these trends and techniques will help strengthen my own mixing practice. Embracing new techniques, experimenting with creative effects, and learning from the insights of established pros will help me make music that is both technically proficient and artistically appealing.
References：
Holman, T. (2020). Immersive Audio: The Next Frontier. Audio Media International. Available at: https://www.audiomediainternational.com/technology/immersive-audio-next-frontier [Accessed 29 May 2024].
Pensado’s Place. (2018). Creative Effects in Modern Mixing. Available at: https://www.pensadosplace.tv/episodes/creative-effects-modern-mixing [Accessed 29 May 2024].The current state of music mixing