Ok....now

[I-AM]

Hello Forum,

I have a question on mixing down to CD.
I've got all the tracks edited and volume changes correct from my software.
So now, before I record to my stand alone phillips CD burner, should I manually compress the sound a little before actually recording the CD.
I have also heard of using a little EQ before I actually lay it down.
What would anyone suggest? I don't want to say that I am getting a bad sound without doing this, but can I make it sound better or more crisp?
Thanks

[Skyline609]

Personally i think if youve made the levels consistant from wave to wave, then youve accomplished the hard part. I suppose you could put a bit of compression on them to make the signal just a bit hotter, but beware compression is distorting the sound somewhat, and you can also clip the signal level which is bad news because then youll wind up having to use a limiter or wind up adding even MORE compression in the long run. So its potentially dangerous if used the wrong way.

As far as the EQ, dont add anything! i would first spin down a copy, and play it around on alot of different systems. From that standpoint you will get an idea if the mix is pretty much consistant. If not, you know what will be needed to be done regarding EQ, and can always go back and edit the waves and record another cd. Its worth the 99 cents to experiement.

Also, i am pretty sure that adding these thing will not make it any clear or crisp as you suggested (maybe a bit louder if you use a bit of compression), but overall, i would just try to keep things the way they are, test em out, and go from there.
I hope this helps

Luke

[jamiecer]

I always treat EQ across the stereo mix as an effect. I wouldn't haphazzardly place a delay or reverb across the mix, why put an EQ there unless you are trying for something specific. You have recorded this song on x number of tracks. If the guitar sounds muddy re-EQ the guitar, check the phase, pan it to a new position, remove some of the compression . . .
What about your mix isn't crisp? Would adding 16k to the drum overheads fix it or do you need to add 16k to everything?

I also agree with Luke. Invest the buck on the CD and listen to your CD on everything you can get your ears on. This will help you understand your own speakers and the enviornment you are mixing in.

Good Luck,
jamie

[I-AM]

I really appreciate the info jamie and luke, may the force be with you.