A Guide to Mixing Vocals

Mixing vocals can truly elevate your track. As a record producer, you want those vocals to pop and complement the music perfectly. Here’s a guide with some insider tips to help you get that professional sound, just like the best London record producers.

Getting Started

Understand the Vocal Style

Before mixing, get to know the vocal style and overall vibe of the track. This helps guide your EQ, compression, and effects choices. Top London Record Producers always start with a clear plan.

Create a Good Mixing Environment

A well-treated room and quality monitors are crucial. London recording engineers know that an accurate sound environment makes all the difference.

EQ: Shaping the Vocals

Remove Unwanted Frequencies

Start with a high-pass filter to cut out the low-end rumble below 80 Hz. This step is essential to keep your mix clean and crisp.

Add Presence

Boost frequencies around 2-5 kHz to give the vocals clarity and make them stand out. This is a common trick among London music producers.

Compression: Taming Dynamics

Set the Right Ratio

Use a compressor to smooth out the dynamics of the vocals. A moderate ratio (3:1 to 5:1) works well. Tweak the attack and release to fit the vocal style, just like London producer-engineers do.

Parallel Compression

Blend a heavily compressed vocal track with the original to add punch while keeping the natural feel. This is a secret weapon for many mix engineers.

Effects: Adding Space and Depth

Use Reverb

Reverb gives the vocals space. A short plate reverb can add subtlety, while a long hall reverb can create depth. London remixers often play with different reverb settings for unique sounds.

Add Delay

Stereo delay can add width and texture to your vocals. Use subtle settings to enhance the vocals without overcrowding the mix.

Automation: Dynamic Enhancements

Volume Automation

Automate the vocal volume to keep it consistent throughout the track. This keeps the vocals balanced and clear.

Effects Automation

Automate effects like reverb and delay to enhance different parts of the song. This adds interest and keeps listeners engaged.

Final Touches

De-essing

Use a de-esser to tame harsh sibilance. This ensures a polished, professional sound, a technique well-known among music arrangers.

Final EQ Adjustments

Make last-minute EQ tweaks to ensure the vocals sit perfectly in the mix. A spectral analyzer can help identify any problem areas.

Why Choose Record-Producers?

Record-Producers is a top name in the industry, representing influential producers, songwriters, mixers, and engineers. With over 20 years of experience, we have worked with leading artists globally and have won numerous Grammy and Brit Awards. If you need expert guidance or want to connect with the best in the business, Record-Producers is your go-to. Learn more at Record Producers.

Stephen Budd, director of Record-Producers.com, at RAK Studios on a recent project


These tips should help you mix vocals like a pro. Remember, every project is a chance to learn and get better. For more expert advice and services, check out Record Producers.

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