frequently asked questions

Audio Mixing FAQs

What does audio mixing involve?

Audio mixing is the process of combining multiple audio sources into a mono, stereo or surround sound product. The sources in studio mixing are typically recorded on a multitrack system. The sources in live mixing (concerts, broadcasts, etc.) are just that — LIVE.  

While mixing, each source or track can be enhanced and manipulated by adjusting it’s level, frequency content, dynamics and panoramic position.  

Whether mixing a film, a tv show, a commercial, a song or a live broadcast, our philosophy is the same — to tell our clients’ stories with emotion and clarity.

Everyone has a story to tell. Some stories are told verbally and some are told musically without a word ever spoken or sung. Audio mixing is the art of using science and technology to tell audible stories. 

How is audio mixing different from mastering?

Audio mixing is creating a “hopefully pleasant” mono, stereo or surround sound product that is made up of multiple audio elements. For television, film, audiobooks and social media, these elements can include dialogue, music and sound effects. For music production, the elements are the vocal and instrumental performances of each song.

Audio mastering is a form of audio post-production where the final mix is processed and prepared for duplication and distribution across a variety of platforms. A single mix may go through multiple masterings in order to meet the distribution standards of the various platforms that exist. At LHV Audio Services, we follow the standards for the platforms that our clients’ are going to use for their distribution.  

Especially in music production, mastering will bring a more consistent and cohesive sound to not only a single song but to an entire album. This is crucial if the songs on that album have been produced at different studios with different producers at different times. Mastering engineers will often apply equalization and dynamic range compression in order to optimize sound translation on all playback systems. Music mastering is an art form that requires very critical listening in a highly specialized environment.

Can LHV Audio Services mix audio I recorded at home or on-location?

Yes. As long as your recordings are clean and well-recorded, we can deliver a professional mix from home-recorded or on-location tracks.

What are the benefits of audio mixing?

Audio for film, television, audiobooks and social media is quite often subliminal and expected to just be there and be good. In our business, there’s an old adage: no one pays attention to the sound… unless it’s bad.

Audio mixing is the combination of art and technology with the goal of engaging your audience with your story. That story will sound clear and balanced with a professional mix.

What types of mixing projects does LHV Audio Services work on?

LHV Audio Services mixes for film, television, radio, audiobooks, podcasts, live broadcasts and music productions. Our mixes are always tailored to enhance our clients’ stories.