Understanding the Difference Between Mixing and Mastering Music

Mixing vs Mastering at a Glance

In the world of music production, two essential but often misunderstood processes are mixing and mastering. While they both play distinct roles in the creation of a finished song, each is critically important in its own right. As a professional mixing and mastering engineer, my goal in this article is to clearly explain the difference between mixing and mastering, and why both are vital to producing music that stands up to commercial releases.

Whether you’re an artist working on your debut EP or a producer learning the ropes, understanding these two stages can help you make better creative decisions—and ultimately, better-sounding music.

What is Mixing?

Mixing is the process of combining individual audio tracks—vocals, drums, guitars, synths, etc.—into a cohesive, balanced stereo track. This stage is where the song starts to take shape, creatively and emotionally.

A skilled mixing engineer makes decisions about:

• Level balancing – Making sure no element dominates unnecessarily
• Panning – Placing instruments within the stereo field
• Equalization (EQ) – Shaping the tone of each sound to avoid clashes and enhance clarity
• Compression – Controlling dynamics to maintain punch and consistency
• Reverb and delay – Creating space, depth, and atmosphere
• Automation – Adjusting parameters dynamically to keep the mix engaging

I personally work in Studio One and Pro Tools, but the DAW you choose isn’t nearly as important as learning how to listen critically and make effective decisions. A well-mixed song should sound balanced, emotional, and compelling—whether played on a car stereo, laptop, or headphones.

What is Mastering?

Mastering is the final step before distribution. Once the mix is finished, mastering ensures that the track is sonically consistent, polished, and ready to meet the loudness and tonal standards of streaming platforms, radio, or physical formats.

Mastering typically involves:

• EQ and compression – Used more subtly than in mixing
• Limiting – Maximizing volume while avoiding distortion
• Stereo enhancement – Ensuring spatial consistency and impact
• Loudness normalization – Meeting industry LUFS targets
• Format preparation – Creating files for digital, vinyl, or CD release

The mastering engineer provides an unbiased ear and a fresh perspective. More than just technical tweaks, mastering is about making sure the music translates well across every system—from earbuds to club speakers.

Mixing vs Mastering – Key Differences

To put it simply:

• Mixing is about the creative blend of multiple tracks.
• Mastering is about technical refinement of a finished mix.

Mixing:

• Adjusts individual elements
• Shapes the identity of the song
• Involves deeper, more detailed edits

Mastering:

• Works with the final stereo file
• Focuses on consistency and clarity
• Prepares the song for the real world

Both stages require different skill sets and environments. Mixing thrives on experimentation and detail. Mastering depends on precision and objectivity.

Workflow: From Recording to Final Master

1. Recording: Capture clean, dynamic performances.
2. Editing: Tighten timing and pitch, clean up noise.
3. Mixing: Sculpt the sound, create vibe and dimension.
4. Mastering: Final polish, sequencing (for albums), format delivery.

The better the mix, the less work the mastering engineer has to do. Poor mixes can make mastering feel like damage control. Good communication between engineers—or ideally, hiring a separate mastering engineer—helps preserve objectivity.

DIY vs Professional Services

Today’s tools make it easier than ever to try mixing and mastering yourself. There are cost savings and a sense of control. But there are trade-offs:

DIY Pros:

• Saves money
• Full creative control
• Learning opportunity

DIY Cons:

• Lack of experience can lead to poor translation
• Inadequate monitoring setup
• No outside perspective

Professional engineers bring trained ears, treated rooms, and high-end tools that can make a night-and-day difference. If budget is a concern, hybrid approaches (e.g., mix it yourself, hire a pro to master) are a great middle ground. Just remember: A second set of ears is invaluable.

FAQs About Mixing and Mastering

Do I need both mixing and mastering? Yes. Mixing makes your track sound good. Mastering ensures it sounds good everywhere.

Can I master a bad mix? Not really. Mastering can’t fix poor balances or muddy elements. It builds on a solid mix.

Should the same person mix and master? It depends. Fresh ears are ideal, but if you’re doing both, take a long break between them.

Final Thoughts

Mixing and mastering are not just technical processes—they’re creative stages that can make or break how a song connects with its audience. While technology has made them more accessible, experience, taste, and perspective still matter more than any plugin or preset.

If you’re serious about your sound, don’t skip or rush these stages. And if you want help bringing your songs to a professional level, I’m always here to assist.

Matty Harris is a professional mixing and mastering engineer based in Los Angeles with over 15 years of experience. He’s worked with major artists like Kelly Clarkson and Travis Barker, and has helped thousands of independent musicians take their songs to a professional level. When he’s not in the studio or creating content for his 40K+ YouTube followers, he’s helping artists around the world elevate their sound through his online mixing and mastering services. [Learn more here.](https://mixandmastermysong.com/)