CMP Audio Mixing Techniques 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a high-pass filter (HPF) on most non-bass instruments during a mix?

Accepted Answer

To remove low-frequency rumble and muddiness

Answer

A high-pass filter removes low-frequency content that contributes nothing musically to non-bass instruments but adds mud and masking.

Question 2

In audio mixing, what does the term 'gain staging' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Managing signal levels at each point in the signal chain to avoid noise and clipping

Answer

Gain staging ensures every stage of the signal chain operates at an optimal level, minimizing noise floor issues and preventing clipping.

Question 3

Which mixing technique uses a fast attack and slow release on a compressor to help a snare drum punch through the mix?

Accepted Answer

New York compression

Answer

New York (parallel) compression blends a heavily compressed signal with the dry signal to add sustain and punch without squashing transients.

Question 4

What is 'masking' in the context of audio mixing?

Accepted Answer

When two sounds occupy overlapping frequency ranges and one obscures the other

Answer

Masking occurs when two or more sounds share similar frequencies, causing one to reduce the perceived clarity of the other.

Question 5

What does a de-esser primarily target in a vocal track?

Accepted Answer

Harsh sibilant frequencies (typically 4–10 kHz) caused by 's' and 'sh' sounds

Answer

A de-esser is a frequency-selective compressor designed to reduce harsh sibilance in the 4–10 kHz range on vocal recordings.

(CMP) Certified Music Producer Practice Test