Mixing is more than EQs and compressors—it’s about how you apply them. And in the world of DAWs, there are three fundamental ways to do it: Series, Parallel, and Group Processing.
Let’s break each one down with metaphors, real-world uses, and DAW-friendly applications. 🎛️
🧩 1. Series Processing
“One effect feeds into the next.”
Think of series processing like a chain of filters on Instagram. Each one affects the result of the previous.
✅ What it means:
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Audio flows linearly from one processor to the next.
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Common with EQ → compression → saturation.
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Used to sculpt and control a single audio signal.
🎯 Common Tools:
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Insert slots in your DAW (EQ, compressor, limiter).
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Used on individual channels (like vocals or kick drums).
🧠 Why use it?
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You want a step-by-step approach.
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You need precision control over tone, dynamics, and color.
Example: Apply subtractive EQ, then a compressor, then a saturation plugin on a snare.
How EQ Works: Types, Bands & Filters
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🌊 2. Parallel Processing
“Mix the original with a processed version.”
This is like layering your raw vocals with an over-the-top, compressed version. You get control and energy.
✅ What it means:
🎯 Common Tools:
🧠 Why use it?
Example: Send vocals to a delay and blend it at 10–15% wet to add space.
Delay or Reverb: What’s the Difference?
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🧱 3. Group Processing
“Process multiple sounds as one.”
Picture a band where the drummer, bassist, and guitarist all wear the same color jacket. Group processing gives cohesion.
✅ What it means:
🎯 Common Tools:
🧠 Why use it?
Example: Send all backing vocals to a group and EQ them together to remove mud.
🚀 Final Thought
You don’t need a fancy setup to make your mixes sound professional—you just need to understand where your signal is going and how it’s being changed.
Master these 3 paths—series, parallel, and group—and you’ll unlock an entirely new level of creative control in your DAW.
⭐️ Download my Free Magic Delay settings Guide ⭐️
⭐️ Download my Free Magic Reverb settings Guide ⭐️
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Also read:
How to Start Your Own Online Business Teaching Music
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