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6.d. using the bx_control in an M/S MASTERING SESSION:
(other tools being “inserted” between 2 instances of the bx_control to
make THEM (the OTHER tools!) operate in M/S mode as well)
(mix files or master bus groups)
Mastering in M/S takes a little time to get used to because it´s just really
different to eq 2 separate mono-sums than eq-ing conventional L&R-
signals, but it´s a very musical way of working, and there IS a reason why
some of the top mastering studios in the world have been working like this
for ages with custom-made M/S-boards without really telling anybody…
M/S-mastering might be the key for your music to sound just as big yet
still open and clear as productions often referred to as being "BIG"…
☺
Many people who have used the M/S-mode for the first time told us that
they have the impression of a “3D-like” depth in their mixes after
processing the M- and the S-Signals individually. While using the M/S-
technique for mastering DOES affect your phases in the stereo-signal we
do not see this as a big problem. In M/S mode altering phases is done
INTENTIONALLY. Of course, though, M/S mode works best if you want to
correct small mistakes in your mixes… for adding or cutting away big
amount of general bass or treble signals you might be better off working
in L/R-mode…
DO NOT let anybody tell you that changing stereo signals in M/S mode
can´t be done or shouldn´t be done at all because of phase problems…
it´s like somebody telling you your MARSHALL is broken because it
distorts your guitar sound…
☺
Anyway, just like you wouldn´t turn all the
MARSHALL knobs to the right all the time be sensitive and reasonable
when using M/S technique with stereo mixes. Like any good drug it can
help A LOT when the dosage is right – and it can KILL when the dosage is
too high…
Once you are used to the basics in M/S you might easily get into more
sophisticated functions… try balancing out a mix that is not centered
100% (most mixes that come from an analogue desk with inserted
compressors, EQs, in the main stereo insert, etc. are not balanced 100%!)
by SOLOing the S-section and adjusting the BALANCE CONTROL until all
the things that SHOULD be centered (like bass drums, snares, lead vocals,
bass, etc.) in your mix disappear completely. If that´s the case you can
be sure that your mix IS balanced!
Make your whole mix or elements of your mix (subgroups, stereo
channels, etc.) sound wider than it originally was by setting the STEREO
WIDTH control higher than 100% - without losing the center of your
recordings! You will NOT lose bass drum power or vocals by making your
mix wider this way… and it will not sound different played back in MONO
at all!
