Introduction to DAW & Signal Flow
| DAW Interface – Understanding Session & Mixer Windows |
| Signal Flow – Routing in different DAWs |
| Session Setup – Setting up a mix session properly |
Working with Samples & Sound Selection
| Sample Selection – Understanding tonal characteristics |
| EQ & Compression – Applying EQ & compression |
| Plugins – Using third-party plugins |
| Parallel Compression – Introduction to the technique |
Understanding Sound & Acoustics
| Basics of Sound Waves – How Sound Travels |
| Frequency, Wavelength & Pitch – How They Relate |
| How Sound Behaves in Different Environments |
| Room Reflections, Absorption & Diffusion |
Understanding Stems & Arrangements
| Stem Management – Difference between stems, stereo, and mono |
| Arrangement – Organizing stems for better workflow |
| Stem Characteristics – Understanding different types |
Gain Staging & Leveling
| Gain Staging – Proper techniques |
| Levels & Balance – Setting levels for an optimized mix |
| Distortion Handling – Preventing unwanted distortion |
| Headroom & Dynamics – Managing dynamic range |
EQ & Frequency Balancing
| Frequency Spectrum – Understanding full range |
| EQ Types – Parametric vs. graphic EQ |
| EQ Techniques – Cutting vs. boosting frequencies |
| Mix Clarity – Using EQ for separation |
Compression & Dynamics Processing
| Compressor Types – Different compressor uses |
| Compression Settings – Attack, release, ratio, threshold |
| Mix Glue & Punch – Enhancing cohesion |
| Advanced Compression – Parallel & multiband compression |
Effects Processing & Spatial Mixing
| Reverb & Delay – Understanding different types |
| Depth & Space – Creating depth with effects |
| Modulation Effects – Using chorus, flanger, phaser |
| Automation – Automating effects dynamically |
Vocal Processing & Mixing
| Vocal Recording – Capturing clean vocals |
| EQ & Compression – Optimizing vocal balance |
| Noise Reduction – Removing breaths, hums, sibilance |
| Vocal FX – Reverb & delay techniques for vocals |
Ear Training for Mixing
| Critical Listening – Identifying frequency issues |
| Tonal Balance – Understanding mix balance |
| Reference Tracks – Analyzing pro mixes |
Mixing for Different Genres
| Hip-Hop & Trap Mixing – Punchy Drums & 808s |
| Rock & Metal Mixing – Guitar Tones & Heavy Drums |
| Electronic Music Mixing – Synth Processing & Sidechain Compression |
| Orchestral & Film Score Mixing – Layering Strings & Dynamics |
Automation & Creative Mixing Techniques
| Volume & Pan Automation for Movement |
| Dynamic Effects Processing (Reverb, Delay, Filters) |
| Automation for Vocal & Instrument Enhancements |
| Automating Plugin Parameters for Unique Sounds |
AI & Machine Learning in Audio Production
| AI-Powered Mixing & Mastering Tools (e.g., iZotope Ozone, LANDR) |
| AI-Based Noise Reduction & Restoration |
| The Future of AI in Music Production |
| Ethical Considerations & Human vs. AI Mixing |
Power & Current in Audio Processing
| Power & Audio – How power affects quality |
| Electrical Noise – Preventing ground loops |
| Studio Setup – Clean power practices |
Introduction to Mastering
| Mixing vs. Mastering – Key differences |
| Mastering Types – Stereo vs. stem mastering |
| Mastering Chain – Plugin order importance |
| Mastering Workflow – Step-by-step guide |
Loudness & Metering in Mastering
| Loudness Standards – LUFS, RMS, Peak |
| Clipping & Distortion – Managing digital distortion |
| Dynamic Range – Maximizing loudness |
Mastering Techniques & Best Practices
| Do’s & Don’ts – Common mastering mistakes |
| Export Settings – Streaming/CD optimization |
| Final Tweaks – Refining mastered tracks |
Analog vs. Digital Processing
| Differences Between Analog & Digital Gear |
| Hybrid Mixing & Mastering Techniques |
| Using Emulation Plugins for Analog Warmth |
| Understanding Noise Floors & Headroom in Analog Chains |
Advanced Mixing Techniques
| Mid/Side Processing for Depth & Clarity |
| Multiband Compression for Balancing Complex Sounds |
| Using Saturation & Harmonic Distortion |
| Stem Mixing for Greater Control |
Pricing Strategies for Mixing & Mastering
| Market Research – Understanding pricing |
| Cost-Based Pricing – Calculating expenses |
| Value-Based Pricing – Perceived client value |
| Per-Song vs. Per-Hour – Choosing the right method |
| Bulk Deals – Discounts for EPs/albums |
| Subscription & Retainers – Monthly service models |
| Upselling – Offering tuning, stem mastering, revisions |
Digital Portfolio for Audio Engineering
| Importance of an Online Portfolio |
| Choosing the Right Platform (Website, SoundCloud, YouTube, etc.) |
| Showcasing Before & After Mixes |
| Writing a Compelling Bio & Service Description |
| Pricing Transparency & Contact Details |
| Using Social Media for Promotion |
| Client Testimonials & Case Studies |
| SEO Optimization for Portfolio Visibility |
Studio Acoustics & Monitoring
| Understanding Room Acoustics & Treatment |
| Speaker Placement & Stereo Imaging |
| Using Reference Monitors & Headphones for Mixing |
| Calibration & Room EQ Correction |
Building a Career in Audio Engineering
| Freelancing vs. Working in a Studio |
| Setting Up a Home Studio for Clients |
| Networking & Collaborating in the Music Industry |
| Managing Client Expectations & Revisions |
Legal Aspects & Copyright in Audio Engineering
| Understanding Copyright Laws for Audio Engineers |
| Contracts & Agreements for Mixing/Mastering Services |
| Licensing & Royalties for Audio Work |
Networking & Marketing for Audio Engineers
| How to Pitch Your Mixing/Mastering Services |
| Collaborating with Artists & Labels |
| Using Social Media & YouTube for Lead Generation |