Many producers know they should be using references but aren't exactly sure what they should be doing.
In this video, I’ll share what I’ve learned from using references on the last 25 tracks I mixed. I’ll explain why references matter, how to choose the right ones, and how to use them effectively without losing your originality.
00:05 Does using references mean copying someone?
00:27 Why producers don't use references
00:59 HOW REFERENCES HELP
1:00 Your ears are easily tricked!
1:34 Tuning your ears before starting work
1:55 Collaborating with someone
2:15 Stopping you going round in circles
2:27 HOW TO USE REFERENCES
2:28 Choosing the right tracks
2:34 References for aligning your ears
2:47 References for production and mixing
2:58 References for consistency
3:25 Checking whether you're making progress
4:05 USING REFERENCES
4:14 Level matching
5:07 Line up the arrangements
5:28 Using tools to support your ears
5:36 Listening to different frequency bands
6:29 Match EQ
7:26 Comparing waveforms
8:03 Listening for short amounts of time
8:19 WHAT HAVE I LEARNED
8:24 Getting the right references
8:41 Know what you're listening for
9:06 Know when to NOT use references
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Is your studio holding you back? Check out my video on "Sorting Your Studio's Acoustics": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iht3uqGGreA&t=433s