What is the difference between mixing and mastering?

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j4j

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I am new to the forum and to recording music so forgive my ignorance. I have some pretty basic questions for you pros out there to answer:

1. What is the difference between Mixing and Masterting? And what is involved?

2. I created a couple of songs using Reasons, Cubase and Protools. They sound pretty good, until you compare them to "Professional" Cds. What dont mine have that crisp snapping snare and fullness?

3. For you R&B lovers - you will feel me on this one: Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire and Quincy Jones all have a unique sound. If you listen to Michael Jackson's Off The Wall and compare it to Quincy's "The Dude" they both have this "sound" that is the same, although different music. Does that have to do with the way it was Mixed or Mastered? Or Both?

4 And finally - are there any "GOOD BOOKS" for the "handicaped mixer" (for dummies) that really break down what mixing and mastering is all about? A tutorial would be nice - like - this is what it sounded like before I added X, and so on.

Thanks
 
Mixing is the process of blending the many tracks of a multitrack production into a more user-friendly format, such as a 2-channel stereo mix. If you didn't mix a song then people would have to adjust the bass, drums, vocals, guitars, etc, along with the effects by themselves, everytime they wanted to hear it... not very practical.

Mastering is the process of adding "polish" to the mixed version of song in preparation for its release to the general public. (Kind of like the grocery store shining-up an apple before putting it on the fruit cart for sale... sure, the apple was delicious and tasty before, but with it all shiny and glossy, it's even more appealing!)

As to the reason you're not having the same results as professionals -- the biggest reason is probably the fact that you aren't a professional..... just because you have the gear doesn't mean you know how to use it. As well, there's usually far more to it than slapping up a couple of mics and hitting Record button.

Go to the Articles page at my studio site (URL is in my sig) - there are some articles there as well as a list of recommended reading... that will give you some additional info and references.
 
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