Amateur vs. Pro: 5 Tricks That Make Pro Mixes Sound Deep

Depth in mixing is created by adjusting four key parameters: loudness, reverberation, reflections, and brightness.

A clap sound is played three times at different distances to illustrate how these parameters change the perception of depth.

• Loudness • Reverberation • Reflections • Brightness

The video will demonstrate these concepts in Ableton with real project examples.

Creating a dark room effect using return channels glues the mix together while adding depth.

Using FabFilter Pro R reverb as the primary tool, with parameters applicable to other reverbs as well.

• Decrease room size to a very low value • Adjust EQ and decay to darken reflections • Cut super lows and reduce highs • Add stereo width adjustment and resonance limiting

Don't rely on a single return channel; create multiple layers including a darker whole sound layer and a bright room layer for realistic depth.

Feedback verbs create long depth and dimension in a track, especially effective on synth sounds.

• EQ with band pass filter that darkens sound with each delay • Multiple delay layers with varying delay times for contrast • Side chain from original sound to control delay levels • Compression for pumping effect

Using inserts instead of returns allows for more aggressive effects processing and creates a corridor-like effect.

Produces a realistic, spacious dimension that enhances the perceived depth of the mix.

• Take harmonic content from vocals or lead sounds • Apply long decay reverb • Freeze the sound using the freeze button • Resample and EQ to create a simpler, darker drone

Using synthesizers like Pigments with heavy unison settings to create oscillators that phase in and out, producing similar warm effects.

Add reverbs and EQ to match the desired sound; multiple pad layers can be combined for richer results.

Layer with kick using light pumping to glue the warm drone seamlessly into the mix.

Start with mid-low toms and thumps placed sparsely to emphasize the room effect and create initial depth structure.

• High pass filter to remove super lows • Route through the dark room reverb created earlier • Use maximizer/clipper to balance and squash the sound

Add deep hits with existing reverb content, then layer slightly brighter but still dark percussion hits with chamber-like tail for breathing effect.

Optional syncopated percussions fill empty spaces and glue all layers together cohesively.

Create a dark, modulated artificial ambience using multiple effect layers similar to reverb techniques but more experimental.

• Chorus to modulate and open up the sound • Reverb for spatial depth • Clipper to control transients • Flanger for additional modulation • EQ and side chain from kick for responsiveness

Embrace experimentation with effects combinations to create unique, modulated background sounds that enhance the mix's depth.

A responsive, dark background that integrates with the track while maintaining the overall depth aesthetic.