MIXING WITH HEADPHONES: 4 TOP TIPS

We have always been suggested not to mix on headphones for many reasons such as: spending too much time with headphones on is dangerous for our ears; the mix won't translate well on speakers; you are more subject to ear fatigue, etc. But there are some exceptions when headphones become very handy.

Here are my 4 Top Tips on using headphones while mixing for specific purposes.

Mixing with headphones: Check the low end

If you work in a not treated room, a good pair of headphones is useful to check your low frequencies.

With headphones, you'll take to room out of the equation.

Mixing with headphones: Check FXs

Turned up that headphones are handy when applying reverbs and delay. It's unbelievable how well they can give you a good understanding of the amount of FXs.

Mixing with headphones: Editing

Headphones are also suitable for editing purposes as noises, pops and clips become very evident.

Mixing with headphones: Check the entire song

Use headphones at the end of the mix to double-check the entire song/track. For this purpose, you should use both studio and commercial headphones/earplugs.

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Manuel Scaramuzzino is a mastering engineer based in London and founder of Master Your Track. He has worked with artists, producers and labels worldwide, helping them prepare music for streaming, physical release and broadcast.

Selected credits include artists and labels distributed by Sony Music, BBC and Tuff Gong.

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