Simple Mixing Tips Series – Tip number 5

August 26, 2026

Written by: Roland Rodas

In this Youtube short video, learn with Roland a fifth powerful tip that will make mixing a lot easier for you.

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Transcript

Hey everyone!
Today we’re continuing our mixing tips miniseries. And tip number 5 is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years.
And it’s this one

Get it right at the source

What do I mean by that?
Simple! The better your recordings are, the easier mixing is.

A lot of people try to fix problems during the mix.

But the truth is, it’s much easier to prevent those problems from happening in the first place.

If the guitar tone just isn’t right, fix it before you hit record.
If the drum tuning isn’t working, fix it before you hit record.
If the vocal performance is off or isn’t convincing, do another take.

Because no amount of EQ, compression, or fancy plugins can fix or replace a great performance.
And a great recording while we’re at it

Think of mixing as simply eliminating areas of the frequency spectrum that you do not need
Not as the process of rescuing something that was captured poorly

The best mixes I worked on have all started with great sources, great performances, great arrangements, and great recordings.

So, next time you’re recording and ready to mix: Slow down!

Pay attention to the details, pay attention to your sources.

And ask yourself: Can I improve this?

Is this “mixing itself”?

Your future self will thank you for it.

Hope this helps you out.
Follow for more mixing and metal mastering tips, and DM me for a free mastering sample.