User's Guide

100
Volume and pan
Adjusting volume and pan is always a good place to start when mixing. One of the biggest benefits
of SONAR's Console view is that you can easily see the volume and pan controls for many tracks
simultaneously, in addition to large meters. Some people also enjoy working in the Console view
because it doesn't offer a graphical representation of what the music “looks like”. Since the final
outcome will be an audio file, the listener will not be distracted by the visual cues that are shown in
the project's Track view. You may find that you are better able to focus on the actual sound when not
seeing the clips.
To open the Console view
•Do one of the following:
• Click the Console view button in the Views toolbar.
• Click Views > Console.
• Press ALT+3.
Here, we'll be shaping the song's foundation. If you listen to the project as it is, you'll probably notice
that it sounds pretty “muddy” and bland. This usually happens because all of the instruments are
fighting each other for space in the frequency spectrum and stereo field. They're all trying to be
heard at the same level in the same location.
Normally, when recording a track, it is common to try to get a relatively loud signal. This is done to
achieve the best signal-to-noise ratio and knowing that you will eventually adjust levels during the
mixing stage.
Some people like to begin this process by turning down every track and then gradually turning up
one track at a time, starting with the rhythm section. Begin by increasing the volume of the bass
drum to the desired level. Continue with the snare, the rest of the drums and finally the bass guitar--
moving on in order of importance. If there is a lead vocal in the song, that would come last, so that it
sits on top of the instrumental foundation you've established.
Other people approach mixing the opposite way, turning things down a bit one at a time. If one
method doesn't seem more appealing than the other, try both to see which one is more comfortable
for you.
Important: Pay close attention to the main meter while mixing. You never want the main
meter to reach the very top, which will result in undesirable audible noise. This is called clipping.
Note: You can find the Mains meters on the far right side in the Console view. If you don’t see
the Mains meters it, click the Mains button .