mixing question

[xtraman]

has anyone heard of mixing the bass drum at -10 db and the bass at -12 to -13 db, then mix everything around them?
it seems to work pretty good but i would like to know a lil bit more.

[Tarekith]

Not a bad starting point, but it really depends on the sounds. All bass drums and basslines are likely going to be a little different, so it makes no sense to hold them to strict rules like that IMO. Start there though, and then adjust to taste.

[mholloway]

agree with Tarekith, def remember that strictness like that is more likely to screw you up then do you any good. The idea is to keep levels lower (not clipping etc) and allow headroom in the overall mix, but certainly you don't want to be thinking "it has to be set at this value" -- because material always differs and needs lots of wiggle room. Watch your meters and trust your ears.

-M

[mihai]

i wouldn't try to hold myself to that too much. as long as your master doesn't clip [and hopefully shows a good amount of headroom] simply set your levels as you go.

[xtraman]

thx for the advice i will keep it in mind