The Importance of Mix Bus Processing – A Mastering Engineer’s Perspective

Hey y'all!

After a wild NAMM holiday season, I’ve been reflecting on the cool conversations I’ve had and wanted to feature some insights. I had a blast getting to connect with Grammy Nominated Mastering engineer Nicholas Di Lorenzo (NLE Choppa, Inas X, Summer Dennis) and wanted to dive in with him to the world of mix bus processing from a Mastering Engineer’s perspective.

Should You Remove Mix Bus Processing Before Mastering?

I asked him:

“What is your take on mix bus processing? Do you prefer broad moves on the mix bus prior to receiving a mix for mastering, or do you favor more granular adjustments, and why?”

He said:

“My take on mix bus processing is that you should NEVER take it off for a mastering engineer!

Mix bus processing, in the digital domain, like in the analog domain, is the sonic fingerprint that helps glue the intention of the mix. 

It informs your mix decisions, and it helps shape the sound; when mixers drive into the bus, it reacts uniquely based on their processing and how hard they drive it.

This is all part of the character a client signs off on when they approve a mix.

Leave this ON for the mastering engineer because that sonic fingerprint the client approved. Those decisions you made BECAUSE of how that bus was dialed in are all part of the sound of the record.

Taking it off is a sure-fire way to have your mastering engineer start chasing their tail.”

Why Mix Bus Processing Matters for Mastering

Nicholas’ insights reinforced the shared responsibility between me, as a producer, and the mix engineer: ensuring the mastering engineer receives a mix that fully embodies the artist’s approved aesthetic. I definitely won’t be turning my mix bus processing off anytime soon! As simple as this concept may sound, it can absolutely make or break a track if the initial vibe and aesthetic suddenly disappear.

Let's all process responsibly ;)

Thanks Nicholas for your insightful answer!