The evolution of computer technology has had a profound impact on the music production industry. The more recent advancements in modern computers, such as the Apple Silicon SOC, have reshaped the traditional approaches to audio mixing, bringing both efficiency and creative flexibility to audio professionals. Here, we explore three significant changes that modern computing power has introduced to the world of mixing.
Reduced Reliance On Track Freeze
Track freezing was once a vital tool for conserving CPU resources during the mixing process. The concept was straightforward: temporarily render a track (or a part of it) into an audio file, thus freeing up the CPU from processing that track's plugins. This technique was particularly crucial in the early days of DAWs, where CPU limitations were a significant concern.
However, with the advent of more powerful modern computers, the necessity of track freezing has diminished. It was almost the case that by the time it had arrived in some DAWs, the need was almost gone. Contemporary processors, boasting higher core counts and faster clock speeds, can handle larger projects with ease. Mixers now find themselves working with numerous tracks and plugins without the same concerns about CPU overload. The reduced need for track freezing means a more fluid and dynamic workflow, allowing mixers to make changes on the fly without constantly managing their CPU resources.
Decreased Use Of Aux Channels For Effects
Historically, mixing consoles and outboard gear were the norm, with limited hardware units like one reverb and one delay, they needed to be shared across multiple channels via auxiliary sends. This method persisted into the early days of 'in-the-box' mixing, primarily due to habit and the constraints of early digital processing power. It was in effect, the same workaround, but for a different reason.
Modern computers, however, have changed this. With the increased processing power available, it's become more common to apply effects like reverb and delay directly to individual tracks, rather than routing them through a limited number of aux channels. It’s no longer the case that using an AUX is for necessity, for some, it’s simply a preference.
This change allows for greater flexibility and individual tailoring of effects to each track. Mixers can now deploy multiple instances of the same plugin across a mix without significant CPU concerns. This shift not only streamlines the workflow but also opens up creative possibilities, allowing for more intricate and track-specific effects processing.
The Shift To More Real-Time Processing
In earlier times, the limited CPU power often meant that certain processing tasks had to be performed offline. For example, Pro Tools users would rely on AudioSuite processing for tasks like noise reduction. This method was necessary to manage the CPU load, but it also meant a less interactive and more time-consuming workflow. Testing the settings on a plugin was a matter of trail and error.
The power of modern computers has enabled a significant shift towards real-time processing. This development is particularly noticeable in post-production mixing, where tools like noise reduction can now be used in real time. The ability to hear the immediate impact of such processing greatly enhances the mixer's ability to make precise adjustments and creative decisions on the fly.
It's worth noting, however, that while real-time processing offers convenience and immediacy, there are situations where offline processing remains the better choice. Offline processing can sometimes provide higher quality results and helps to avoid issues related to processing latency. Therefore, while the capability for real-time processing is a valuable asset, the judicious use of offline processing remains an important part of a mixer's toolkit. It’s a case of, just because you can, it doesn't always mean you should.
We’ve Got The Power
The reduction in the need for track freezing, the shift away from relying on auxiliary channels for effects, and the move towards more real-time processing represent just a few of the ways in which modern computers have enhanced the mixing process. These changes have not only streamlined workflows but have also expanded the creative possibilities for audio professionals. As technology continues to advance, it's exciting to consider what further innovations will emerge in the realm of audio production.