MIX TECHNIQUE - DEPTH & SPACE

This blog is all about tips on how to create depth and space into a mix without simply relying on reverb! 

Sound is to be thought of in 3 parts. 

1. Level (how loud or soft) 
2. Frequency (where it occupies tonal space) 
3. Physical space (room, hall, outdoor, and so on) 

In our real world, the perception of sound is that sounds that are far away from us sound quieter than sounds that are closer to us. This is a very important concept and knowing this, you have two very powerful tools to help you create that depth and space in your mix for your listener.  

1. The Fader 
   
   You can use the fader to turn the level of the elements you want to be pushed further back into the mix, or the converse is true. 
   
   This may seem quite obvious, but your simple balancing of the sounds using faders only can really establish the image and help you achieve the depth and clarity you need in your mix. It’s really as simple as turning levels up and down. 
    
2. Your EQ 
   
   Using your EQ to boost higher frequency will also create the sense of the sound being more ‘upfront’ or ‘closer’.  
   
   You need to be really careful here though as a small change of even 2dBs can make a huge difference and completely change the perception and balance of your mix, especially in mastering sessions! 
   
   And the final cool trick: 
   
   
3. The HAAS Effect 
   
   You can also use the HAAS effect (working with delay) to add a sense of width or space to your mix. 
   
   Check out the previous blog and video on the HAAS effect if you haven’t seen it yet! 

And there you have it. Some quick-fire techniques to get your mix to have some depth and space without using reverb or delay. 

We’ve asked Bronwen from RAPPONLINE to demonstrate these techniques in a video for us. 

Have fun! 

r-loops team