Podcast 006 How To Achieve Loud Mixes

On this episode we tackle how to make mixes sound louder: compression layers, limiting techniques, the use of mid frequencies, the loudness war, iTunes Mastering dos and don’ts.

On episode 6 you will learn about:
– loudness vs perceived loudness
– loudness war
– when a mix is too loud
– dynamic range
– layering compressors
– iTunes Mastering
– loudness and Mp3 files
– inter-sample clipping
– Mid/Side techniques

On this episode we mention the following gear:

– Prism Sound ADA-8XR
– Izotope Ozone 7
– Massey 2007
– Steinberg Wavelab
– Slate Trigger 2.0

Related Articles:
– How Can I Make My Mixes Louder
– How Can I Make My Mixes Sound Professional?
– How To Mix The Kick Drum (Podcast)
– How To Make Your Kick Drum Sound Better

Summary:

00:27 – Introduction to Loudness War
02:50 – Concepts behind Loudness
04:24 – Loudness & Perceived Loudness
09:07 – Gain Staging
14:12 – Loudness Regulations
15:00 – Mastering for MP3 and iTunes
22:53 – Impact vs Loudness
24:36 – Round Table Tips for Loudness
25:10 – Overloading good quality converters (Prism Sound Dream ADA-8XR)
35:50 – Q&A

Questions:
35:58 – Q1 Should I look at a real time analyser or should I trust my ears?
38:02 – Q2 What is your take on the loudness wars?