From Good to GREAT: How to Unlock That Final 10% of Your Mix

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of transforming your audio mixes from good to great using the Waves Infected Mushroom Pusher plugin. This all-in-one tool helps refine your mixes by adding depth, enhancing low-end weight, sparkling highs, and dynamic energy. By following these steps, you'll unlock the full potential of your audio projects.

Step 1: Setup the Plugin

• Open your digital audio workstation (DAW) and load the Waves Infected Mushroom Pusher plugin on your master bus or individual tracks.
• Adjust the Input Control to set the initial gain level. Aim for a level that maintains a good signal without clipping.

Step 2: Dial in Sweet Highs

• Navigate to the High Control section of the plugin.
• Gradually increase the high frequency boost until you achieve a sparkling quality in the mix without causing harshness.
• Listen for clarity in vocals and instruments, ensuring they shine through effectively.

Step 3: Make the Mix Wider

• Access the Stereo Width control.
• Increase the width to create a more spacious mix. This can be particularly effective for synths, pads, and backing vocals.
• Be cautious not to overdo it; too much width can lead to phase issues. Aim for a balanced sound.

Step 4: Add Midrange Focus and Dynamic Punch

• Use the Magic Control to enhance the midrange frequencies.
• Increase this control to bring out the presence of key elements in your mix, such as vocals and snare drums.
• Pay attention to the dynamics; you want to add punch without sacrificing the overall balance.

Step 5: Add Thickness to Low-Mid Energy

• Adjust the Body Control to add thickness and warmth to the low-mid range.
• This is especially useful for bass instruments and kick drums. Increase the control until you feel the mix gaining depth.
• Ensure that the added thickness does not muddy the overall sound.

Step 6: Push Extended Low-End Tone

• Engage the Sub Control to enhance the low-end frequencies.
• This will help in giving your mix a fuller sound. Use this control sparingly to avoid overwhelming the mix with bass.
• Focus on maintaining clarity while adding the necessary weight.

Step 7: Clipper vs Limiter Example

• Understand the difference between the Push Control settings: Clipper and Limiter.
• The Clipper setting allows for more aggressive dynamics, while the Limiter will smooth out peaks.
• Experiment with both to find which best suits your mix. Adjust accordingly to achieve the desired loudness and punch.

Step 8: Final Mix Enhancement

• After applying all controls, play your mix in its entirety to assess the overall sound.
• Make any necessary adjustments to each control to ensure everything is cohesive.
• Consider doing a side-by-side comparison of the mix before and after using the Pusher to hear the improvements.

Conclusion

By following these steps using the Waves Infected Mushroom Pusher plugin, you can elevate your mixes to a professional level. Remember to adjust each control carefully, listening critically to maintain balance and clarity throughout your audio. For further refinement, consider exploring other mastering plugins by Waves to complement your mixing process. Happy mixing!