From Mix Magazine, here’s a great interview with Andy Wallace, the engineer who essentially defined the modern rock mix (with bands like Nirvana, Linkin Park, and System of a Down.)
The Pro Tools thing is a mixed blessing. The younger guys who have never had to cut tape or edit by bouncing on analog have a different perspective and are more easily caught up in over-editing. Not so much to the detriment of the material, although that can certainly happen, but just taking up too much time. Editing stuff to a degree that doesn’t matter. You’re never going to hear it.
The article is peppered with lots of technical tips from Andy. One that stands out: He often rides the cymbals higher in his mixes during the chorus. As the author points out, this is never obvious to the listener, yet Wallace’s tracks have such a distinct sound it must be an important factor.
Tags: professional-engineers
