The mix window

Welcome to Session Three: Mixing

In this session, we will focus on mixing. Let's switch over to the mix window.

Overview of the Mix Window

As you can see, the layout here differs significantly from the edit window. However, there are some similarities:

• Track List: Located on the left side
• Groups: We already have an existing drum group.

Working with Groups

• If I move one of the drum faders, you will notice that all of them move together.
• To reset the faders, use Option + Click.
• You can turn off the group by clicking on it.

Key Focus in Edit Window

We're always in group key focus when in the mix window. To activate or suspend:

• Press D for drums
• Hold the Control key for individual control
• Alternatively, use a right mouse click for independent control. This allows you to manipulate the entire group while maintaining flexibility.

Customizing the Mix Window

The layout of this page is adjustable in various ways:

• To reduce clutter, go to the bottom left and choose "All." While this option shows everything, it can become too crowded for the screen.
• You can scroll down if needed.

Removing Unnecessary Items

• To clear up writing on items, you can Option + Click as done in the edit window.
• For inserts:
  • Inserts A to E and Inserts F to J are where you put your plugins.
  • If you are using more than five inserts on a single track, you may have some issues.
  • Let's remove Inserts F to J for a cleaner view.

Managing Sends and Other Features

• I currently have five sends, which is likely sufficient.
• You can also remove unnecessary items like:
  • Mic preamps (if you don't have Avid mic preamps)
  • Instruments (since we're not doing MIDI in this course)
  • Object and delay compensation options.

Now that I've cleaned up the workspace, let's move to the edit window for some additional insights.

Preparing Your Track

Before starting your track, I want to highlight:

• The version provided includes a tempo map, which is essential for your track.
• I have placed memory locates on key points throughout the song.

Utilizing Memory Locations

Memory locations are very powerful in Pro Tools. Familiarizing yourself with the structure of your song and setting locates at significant points is crucial.

To bring up the locates window, use:

• Command + Numeric Keypad 5

To create a locate, the easiest method is to hit the Enter key (the one next to the numeric keypad, not the alphanumeric one with an arrow).

Naming and Navigating Locates

• Once you click, up comes the memory locate. You can give it a name.
• To navigate to a locate, simply click on it.

To delete a locate, hold the Option key, and a small eraser icon will appear, allowing you to remove it.

Organizing Locates

• I recommend using a systematic approach:
  • Verses: Locates 11 to 19
  • Choruses: Locates 21 to 29
• This system allows you to jump straight to specific parts of your project quickly.

Setting Locates Efficiently

To create locates:

• Press the Enter key.
• Customize the numbers accordingly.

Using shortcuts is efficient in Pro Tools. For instance, to go to locate 42, press Point 42 Point on the numeric keypad.

To create a locate 43:

• Press Point 43 Enter. This sets the locate number quickly in the memory location.

Next Steps

Play around with the mix window and customize it as you prefer. Then, familiarize yourself with the song's structure. Before you start mixing, it's essential to listen through the track and form a plan of action.

In the next video, I'll demonstrate how I start mixing a track.

See you then!