After all voices, sounds, and instruments have been recorded on individual tracks, a mixing engineer creates the final version of a song or other type of recording. The engineer combines these individual elements until the desired volume and frequency balance of vocal and instrumental elements is achieved. Mixing engineers work on large, complex audio consoles that are commonly found in recording studios. A mixing engineer might work in the music, radio, television, or film industries, as well as live events like concerts and Broadway shows. Years of hands-on experience are typically used to hone the skills of these engineers.
Modern sound recordings are typically made with a digital audio system that allows for the simultaneous recording of dozens of different tracks in a single session. Typically, instrumental and vocal tracks are recorded separately and then blended together a mixing engineer. Before starting the recording process, the engineer must make sure that all of the recording equipment is in good working order and that the session is properly set-up. The mixing engineer must monitor the audio being produced from both a musical and technical standpoint once the recording session begins in order to produce a final version that is as perfect as possible.
A mixing engineer may also make use of specialized equipment to create sound effects such as rain, sirens, or explosions. A recording’s engineer can also add delays or echoes, as well as slow or fasten the tempo. A mixing engineer will sometimes add sounds like laughter or applause to a television recording to help direct the viewer’s attention to specific parts of dialog.
Mixing engineers are an important part of the recording process, and they frequently consult with recording artists to help them fine-tune and improve their musical arrangements. During the course of a recording session, an engineer must not only adjust the recording equipment, but also the recording artist’s performance in order to achieve a better finished product. To help shape the sound of each track, musicians frequently rely on a mixing engineer’s extensive knowledge and wide range of recording experience. Mixing audio is generally regarded as an art form that takes many years of practice to master, and a skilled engineer is always in high demand.