Mixing with a reference
When we talk about mixing in music, reference material is used to describe a professional track that we use as a benchmark or point of comparison during the mixing process. These reference tracks work as a guide for achieving certain sonic characteristics, dynamics, loudness, stereo imaging, and overall quality of the mix. Usually, we pick a reference track by choosing a song that sounds similar to the one we are working on in terms of mixing.
How + why we might use reference material
1 After selecting our reference material, we need to make sure that it demonstrates the desired sound and production for the song we are working on. The reference track can be a well-mixed and mastered commercial release, a song from the same genre, or a piece of music that shares similar sonic characteristics.
2 We need to listen critically to the reference track and examine its:
- Frequency balance
- Dynamic range
- Stereo Imaging
- Overall tonal balance (a well-balanced mix ensures that no frequency range dominates or feels lacking)
Then, we pay close attention to how different instruments and elements are balanced in the mix and how the song translates across different playback devices like iPhones, MacBooks, and speakers.
3 Using the reference track as a guide, we make informed decisions about EQ, compression, frequency balancing, and other processing techniques. We should aim to achieve a sound that is on par in quality and aesthetic with the reference track while still keeping our uniqueness and own artistic vision of the song.
4 It’s important to match the playback levels of the reference track and our mix to accurately compare their sonic characteristics. We can use volume normalization and metering tools to do this.
5 It can be a tedious and repetitive process to achieve our desired mix. We may need to switch back and forth between both mixes repeatedly to ensure we are on the right track.
Examples of references + state what they might be good for
A few months back, while I was working on my original track “Watcher”, I decided to use Olivia Rodrigo’s “Deja Vu” as a reference track. Both being alternative pop songs, structurally, my song was also inspired by “Deja Vu”. The first verse and chorus of both songs are relatively soft and subdued, building up tension, and allowing all the energy to burst forth as the first chorus ends.
Using a reference track helped me recognize the areas in my mix that required improvement. It also motivated me to aim for professional-level results, even though I lacked the experience to do so.