Mixing/Mastering process noob question

[Flei]

I'm new here, but I've been recording for a while. The method I use is similar to Gecko Zzed...

I try to do as much as possible within the DAW before I mix it down. Having said that, I never apply effects to the entire mix (it always sounded bad, and messed things up later on in the process), I only do that on a track by track basis... Heavy comp for the bass (I mainly make hip hop, but love all genres), maybe some reverb for the hi-hats. etc... If you take your time with that, and watch your levels, the mastering step becomes much less involved (usually). In essence, I "fix" any technical issues with the sound in the DAW to get an overall sound that I like. I then use a wave editor with various plugins, and tools to make the song a bit brighter, deeper, fuller, and louder. You have to be careful, and be able to detach from your song in order to do it justice. After your "done", listen to your track on every type of speaker you can - even and especially shitty speakers. If you can make your song sound good and full on some shitty speakers, then it will (usually) sound that much better on good ones. Just my 2cents...

[lurek100]

hi there.
I dont now much about mastering my self but im doing mixes for my songs and I wouldlike to get them sound better same like you
I use program called T-racks 3. it has lots of presets. you can get the one you will like and start twicking with it.
also you can see how the plugins are applied.
resultats are not professional but its pretty good.
thats what I do at the moment.
good point to start learning.

[AscendRecording]

At OP, I prefer the second method. I usually get my mix to a point where I really like it, then I'll start mastering it in the same project. Through out the whole mastering process I'll usually go back into the mix and change a few things. So I basically mix into my mastering chain.