The Mixing Engineer’s Handbook by Bobby Owsinski

The Mixing Engineer’s Handbook by Bobby Owsinski is a comprehensive reference book for anyone interested or involved in the craft of audio mixing. It is organized as a step-by-step guide to the process, taking readers from opening the session in order to gain a better understanding of the song all the way to mastering the final mix.

The first section, “Gaining an Understanding of the Song”, encourages a wide range of theoretical and practical knowledge. Owsinski explains the popular concepts of waveforms and targets so the reader can understand how sound works, and provides basic topics like frequency, stereowidth, and panning to gain a better appreciation of stereo audio.

In the second portion of the book, Owsinski focuses on the actual mixing process. He starts off by explaining the basics of setting up the mix session and then moves slowly through each step of the process. He goes over how to use EQs and compressors, how to choose the proper microphone and pre-amp, as well as how to treat individual tracks in order to achieve the desired sound.

One of the most important sections of the book is the part on automation and effects processing. Owsinski discusses the effectiveness of automation and recommends when it should be used to masterfully shape the mix. He provides detailed instruction on the use of reverbs, delays, chorus, and other effects to inject energy into the mix.

Finally, the last part of book delves into the art of mastering and preparing the song for distribution. This section helps the reader to understand the fundamental differences between mastering and mixing, detailing how the song should be approached in order to best support the mix when played back in other environments.

All in all, The Mixing Engineer’s Handbook by Bobby Owsinski is a comprehensive resource for anyone trying to master the craft of mixing audio. The book carefully guides the reader from the basics all the way through the mastering of a finished product. It provides insights into the science of sound and simple yet effective methods to help achieve professional results. Anyone from novice to expert stands to greatly benefit from Owsinski's book and can trust that it will provide valuable information.