Computer Mixing / Tips
Kylen, the rate depends greatly depending on various factors (mix location, # songs, # tracks, song length, # hours anticipated by client, available budget, etc). I would not expect a vocal guitar folk song to take as long as a full band, so the rates should reflect the amount of work needed.
The reason I ask artists to name the rate is because I actually try to accomodate all reasonable bids. I am in the middle of projects ranging from $30/hr to over $80/hr. I allocate my time according to budget, deadline and my particular mood (shall it be hardcore or reggae today).
And by the way, we are ALL cocky nobodies mixing away and you should never be afraid to try anything rather than be limited to what you read in EQ magazine. There are no golden rules, but there are some insights to making whatever you do a little more dynamic in the tips section of my site. People email me questions that I answer both personally and posted. Being a cocky nobody does not mean you should not be open to advise to either use or throw out as you will...at least be open to checking it out.
Um...gotten a haircut, but may be going back to the bush so I should not address Kevin's comment.
Son of Mixerman, 16 track demos can sound BETTER than stuff done on an SSL G (never liked the G eq's m'self) if they are recorded fully. And cheap mics can be more appropriate than expensive ones. I have used SM58's for studio vocals (even for Al Jarreau). Certain cheesy mics will have a cooler trashy sound than the pricey stuff...if that's what you are going for.
However, if you are going for clarity and depth you should try to get (even rent) a decent mic and mic pre, then send the signal into whatever you are recording to as cleanly as possible. Add compression or effects only if you need to, bearing in mind you can add more later. Try to both capture and preserve the dynamics of what you are recording.
Hey, I usually bypassed the SSL and send the mic > mic pre > directly into the tape machine. Less is more. I see no reason why you cannot do the same with lower budget equipment.
Besides, if you are more comfortable playing in the Garage (and who isn't), then of course you will get much better/cooler tracks there than in a room with a clock over your shoulder.
More opinions & tips at my site at
http://BruceAMiller.us