🔊

Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing

IN LOGIC PRO

Chain Order (Start to Finish)

  1. Gain

    Set healthy peaks around -12 dBFS.

  2. Surgical EQ

    Remove mud and harsh resonances.

  3. Compression

    Control dynamics and add consistency.

  4. Tone EQ

    Shape musical balance and clarity.

  5. Saturation

    Add harmonics and perceived density.

  6. Space

    Use subtle reverb or delay if needed.

  7. Limiting

    Catch peaks and cap final level.

EQ, Compression, and Metering

EQ Targets

  • High-pass where possible
  • Cut boxiness first
  • Boost for intent, not volume

Compression Targets

  • Ratio 3:1 to 4:1
  • Attack 10-30 ms
  • Aim 2-6 dB gain reduction

Metering Targets

  • Keep peaks below -6 dBFS
  • Watch low-end buildup
  • Prioritize Balance and headroom clarity

EQ Moves

RangeMoveWhy
20-30 HzHigh-pass filterClean subsonic rumble
150-300 HzLow-mid cutReduce low-mid congestion
1-3 kHzPresenceImprove detail and definition
10-16 kHzHigh shelfOpen top end carefully
16-20 kHzAirOptional sparkle

Plugin Recommendations

EQ

  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing Channel EQ screenshotChannel EQ
  • Pro-Q 3

Glue Compression

  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing SSL style screenshotSSL style
  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing API 2500 light settings screenshotAPI 2500 light settings

Saturation

  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing J37 screenshotJ37
  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing Saturn 2 subtle screenshotSaturn 2 subtle

Limiting

  • Main Bus / Pre-Master Mixing Transparent limiter for peak catch screenshotTransparent limiter for peak catch

Quick Reminders

  • Leave target peak around -6 dBFS.
  • Do not normalize at mix stage.
  • Check mono and low-volume translation.
  • Avoid fixing arrangement issues on bus.