Bedroom Producers

Mixing Reset Checklist - Simplify Your Mix Decisions

When your mix sounds muddy, cluttered, or just "off," it's time for a mixing reset. This checklist will help you get back on track.

The Problem

Most bedroom producers struggle with:

  • Muddy low-end: Too many elements competing in the bass frequencies
  • Cluttered mids: Instruments fighting for the same frequency space
  • Harsh highs: Over-processed or poorly EQ'd high frequencies
  • Poor balance: Elements that are too loud or too quiet

The Solution: Mixing Reset Checklist

šŸŽÆ Pre-Mix Setup

  • Set monitoring level to 85dB SPL
  • Check room acoustics (move away from walls)
  • Use reference tracks (3-5 similar songs)
  • Save a backup of your project

šŸ„ Drums First

  • Kick: Clear fundamental, no mud below 40Hz
  • Snare: Punchy mid-range, not too bright
  • Hats: Present but not harsh
  • Overall: Drums sit well in the mix

šŸŽø Bass Foundation

  • Bass: Clear fundamental, no mud
  • Kick + Bass: No frequency conflicts
  • Low-end: Tight and controlled
  • Sub-bass: Present but not overwhelming

šŸŽµ Melodic Elements

  • Lead: Clear and present
  • Pads: Supportive, not competing
  • Arps/Plucks: Defined but not harsh
  • Vocals: Clear and intelligible

šŸŽšļø Balance Check

  • Drums: Foundation level
  • Bass: Supporting drums
  • Melodic: Complementing rhythm
  • Vocals: Clear and present

šŸ”§ Technical Check

  • No clipping on individual tracks
  • No clipping on master bus
  • Stereo image is balanced
  • Mono compatibility check

Download the PDF

Get the complete Mixing Reset Checklist PDF ā†’

How to Use This Checklist

  1. Print it out or keep it open on a second screen
  2. Go through each section systematically
  3. Check off items as you complete them
  4. Don't skip steps - each one matters
  5. Use it regularly - make it part of your workflow

Pro Tips

Take Breaks

Your ears get fatigued. Take a 10-minute break every hour.

Reference Constantly

Compare your mix to reference tracks every 15-20 minutes.

Trust Your Ears

If something sounds wrong, it probably is. Don't ignore your instincts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

āŒ Solo mixing: Always check how elements work together āŒ Over-EQing: Subtle changes are usually better āŒ Ignoring phase: Check mono compatibility āŒ Rushing: Good mixes take time

Struggling with a specific mixing issue? Submit your track for feedback and get personalized mixing advice.