How To Use Reference Mixes - Into The Lair #71

Mix Engineer Dave Pensado goes over some reference mixes he uses and why he uses them.

[DAPPADONTHADON]

when it comes to referencing and mixing the key thing to understand is the difference in levels... one thing that I personally do is that when I use a "commercial" track that is out as a reference to any song or genre that I intend to mix is that with the "commercial track" I will lower the levels by around -10db that way I can at least reference at that level to try and work my gain stage in that respect.. as well as listen to the placement of instrumentation and vocals in the stereo field. You generally would not reference a mastered commercial song at full level to a mix that you are working on in a daw primarily due to the differences in gain stage and levels so again turning down the level of a mastered commercial track by -10db will give you probably the best reference to work with.

[MrDonnyAir]

I use references all the time - as Dave said, not to copy a song, or even to clone the exact parameters of a mix, but as something to strive for in quality and overall sonics. It may be the way the bass is sitting, or the way it relates to the kick. It could be a certain reverb treatment of a vocal, or it could even be the sonics of a mix as a whole. It's also a good way to hear how mastered and commercially released mixes sound on your own monitoring, in your mixing environment. Choose something that is similar in style to what you are working on, and it will help to guide you - not only towards better mixing, but also to better arranging and recording, too.
FWIW

[johnchambers]

Using reference mixes with my DAW is something I'm trying for the first time today….for years I've avoided it for fear of copying something about the ref mix or that the ref mix would interrupt the creative flow when I'm really feeling the song that I'm working on. However, you've done a wonderful job of addressing those concerns and showing the advantages of a reference mix - not just for sonic comparisons but for building an arrangement as well. Thanks Dave, john

[MuchMooreEnt]

Man I wish I could love this joint. Almost anything Dave says is golden for all engineers!

[MrOliverTube]

Mr. Pensado
I thank you very much for all your teachings. It´s very generous of you and they are all very helpful.

[aeota]

appreciate you using dope contemporary tracks. it helps a lot!

[DCayce]

Dave... I’m new to your channel and just love your perfect “mix” of the technical and philosophical sides of this art & craft... and the relaxed delivery. Well done. I’m definitely a fan, much to learn. Thanks.

[seanmutlu]

"Metaphoric Competition", Pensado you are the man

[barryplem]

"Ebb and flow." It refers to the flow in and out of water, and is used in this context to refer to the dynamics of the song, louder or softer.

[DrDismal]

A treasure trove of advice, this is great!

[alandrew]

Thanks for the awesome Channel ! You passion and input into our daily work is so valuable !

[ampstudios]

I hear what you're saying though, Dave. I'm starting to get into more vocal mixing, so hearing a reference, kinda clears my head on the same level, to compete as you say with the mainstream sound.

[jtpinnyc]

No matter what kind of music I'm working on I always check it against some Steely Dan or Donald Fagen just to check I'm not going too over the top with the bass and drums lol....

[EnricoDePaoli]

Amazing thinking. I'm absolutely synced up to it. Thanks for the great video. Best, Enrico

[keepitlo]

Where has this channel been all my life?

[SimonLarkin-CSRecording]

Thank you for all your great advice. I have been learning so much from you for the last few years. You are a generous

[jazzli]

Dear Dave, Thank you so much for your great teaching and being master. I am learning a lot of skill but also learn philosophy of mixing.

[OKNOOOOOOO]

This may the most honest man in all of music lol

[mitchelldavid]

really enjoy watching your vids! lots of knowledge and encouraged experimentation!
THanks

[KingCoCo]

My current reference songs:

Celebration - Kool & the gang
Beyonce - Naughty Girl
Baauer - Fire like this
Eptic/Carnage - The End
Michael Jackson - Liberian Girl
Missy Elliot - Pass That dutch
Missy Elliot - Loose Control
RIhanna - BBHMM
Lil Wayne - A Milli
Kanye West - Clique
Brenda Russell - Piano in the dark
Simple Minds - Dont you forget about me
A flock of seagulls - I ran

i'll stop now.