In the mixing process, I would see the following fundamental points:
- you want to make a mix for stereo listening, so first of all you will have to worry about how the stereo image is recreated based on the arrangement of the instruments. Imagine where the microphones are placed in front of the instruments while you look at them. Therefore, adjust the panning accordingly.
- mix the drums in stereo! this is a small but great secret that takes you away from the flatness of those who use sampled drums without even delving into this important point.
The ride is not near the hi-hat! and so on...
- try to focus the instrument in the mix based on its function. Bass, in the center without a doubt. Guitars, let's double them by playing the rhythmic parts twice...
- also check MONO compatibility
Other tips to generally follow:
1. keep your mix clear and simple. Don't make jams of keyboards written in the same range of extension. Separate the instruments as much as possible, clarifying them and giving them a precise role.
2. LOWER THE VOLUME!! You mix by proceeding with what is lower and generally you lower everything else, please...
3. go easy on the reverbs. Listen dry first and only then add reverb little by little
4. listen to the mix on different media (why not even in the car?!?!) and also listen to the mix from a distance
5. don't mix everything and only in headphones, this is one of the most common mistakes
6. compress the rhythmic tracks, you will be able to control the volume better
7. stay away from 0 dBFS, always.
