Yamaha EMX212S User Manual

Page 19

Making the Most of Your Mixer

EMX512SC/EMX312SC/EMX212S

BASIC

worry about a confusing multitude
of settings.

A common example of the use of
compression is to “tame” a vocal
that has a wide dynamic range in
order to tighten up the mix. With
the right amount of compression
you’ll be able to clearly hear
whispered passages while
passionate shouts are still well
balanced in the mix. Compression
can also be valuable on bass
guitar, producing a smooth bass
sound that stays solid through the
tune. Compression can also be
applied to guitar tracks to add
extra sustain. Too much
compression can be a cause of
feedback, however, so use it
sparingly.

Music First—Then Mix

In any case, the music comes
first. Think about the music and
let it guide the mix, rather than
trying to do things the other way
around. What is the music saying
and what instrument or technique
is being used to drive the
message? That’s where the focus
of your mix should be. You’re
using a high-tech tool to do the
mixing, but the mix itself is as
much art as the music. Approach
it that way and your mixes will
become a vital part of the music.