A good mixing level, particularly in professional settings, is often around 85 dB (decibels), as this is where frequencies tend to sound the flattest. However, what constitutes an optimal mixing level can vary significantly depending on your studio environment and equipment.
The Professional Standard: 85 dB SPL
For many audio engineers, 85 dB SPL (Sound Pressure Level) is considered a benchmark for mixing. This specific level is favored because it's where human hearing perceives frequencies in the most balanced, or "flattest," way, minimizing the influence of the ear's non-linear frequency response (as described by the Fletcher-Munson curves). This allows engineers to make more accurate decisions regarding equalization and dynamics.
- Why 85 dB? At this loudness, the ear's perception of bass and treble frequencies becomes more linear, meaning what you hear more closely matches the actual sonic content.
- Ideal Environment: This level is particularly relevant for larger, professionally treated mix rooms designed to handle such volumes without introducing problematic reflections or resonances.
Context Matters: Studio Size and Equipment
While 85 dB is a professional standard, it's crucial to understand that this number primarily pertains to larger, professional mix rooms. If you're working in a smaller space, such as a small bedroom studio with nearfield monitors, 85 dB can seem excessively loud and may not be the most effective or comfortable level for accurate mixing.
Studio Environment | Typical Mixing Level Consideration | Key Factors |
---|---|---|
Professional Mix Room | Around 85 dB SPL | Designed for optimal acoustics, allows for accurate frequency perception at higher volumes, reduced ear fatigue over time. |
Small Bedroom Studio | Often lower than 85 dB (e.g., 65-75 dB SPL) or "conversational level" | Acoustic treatment is crucial; high volumes can exaggerate room issues, lead to faster ear fatigue, and overwhelm nearfield monitors. |
Practical Mixing Level Considerations
Finding the right mixing level for your setup involves balancing ideal acoustic principles with practical considerations.
- Ear Fatigue: Prolonged mixing at excessive volumes (like 85 dB in an untreated small room) can quickly lead to ear fatigue, causing your hearing to become less accurate. This results in poor mixing decisions.
- Room Acoustics: In smaller, untreated rooms, high volumes can excite room modes and reflections, creating an inaccurate perception of bass and other frequencies. Mixing at a lower volume can help mitigate some of these issues.
- Nearfield Monitors: If you're using nearfield monitors, they are designed to be listened to at a closer distance and often at lower volumes to reduce the impact of room acoustics.
- Conversational Level: A good rule of thumb for home studios is to mix at a "conversational level," where you can comfortably hold a conversation without raising your voice. This often translates to around 65-75 dB SPL.
- Check Levels: While most of your mixing should happen at a consistent, comfortable level, it's beneficial to occasionally check your mix at different volumes (lower and slightly higher) to ensure it translates well across various playback systems. Always return to your primary mixing level for critical decisions.
Ultimately, a "good" mixing level is one that allows you to make accurate sonic decisions consistently, without causing ear fatigue, and that translates well across different playback systems, while being appropriate for your specific studio environment.