There are so many DAW tutorials for mixing out there, but honestly most of them feel like they're just rehashing the same basic information. I'm looking for tutorials that actually dive deep into specific DAW features that can really improve your mixing process.
For example, I've seen some amazing Logic Pro tutorials that show you how to use the stock plugins in ways you wouldn't think of, or Pro Tools tutorials that reveal hidden workflow shortcuts that save hours.
What DAW tutorials for mixing have you found that actually taught you something new? I'm especially interested in tutorials that focus on the unique strengths of each DAW rather than just generic mixing advice.
For DAW tutorials for mixing, I think it really depends on which DAW you're using. Some DAWs have unique features that can completely change your mixing workflow.
For Pro Tools, the Avid Pro Tools YouTube channel has some surprisingly good tutorials that show you how to use the built in tools effectively. They have this series on using Clip Gain for mixing that completely changed how I approach level balancing.
For Logic Pro, the Why Logic Pro Rules" channel does deep dives into specific features like the stock compressors and EQs. He shows you how to get sounds that compete with expensive third party plugins using just what comes with Logic.
The key with DAW tutorials for mixing is finding ones that focus on the strengths of that particular DAW rather than generic advice.
I completely agree about DAW specific tutorials. What drives me crazy is when someone does a mixing tutorial" but they're using some obscure plugin that costs $300 and only works in one DAW. That's not helpful for most people.
The best DAW tutorials for mixing I've found are the ones that use stock plugins. There's this Ableton Live tutorial series called "You Suck at Producing" that's actually amazing. The guy uses only stock Ableton devices and shows you how to get professional results. It forces you to learn the tools you actually have rather than chasing after the latest plugin.
Also, tutorials that show you how to set up custom key commands or workflow shortcuts specific to your DAW can save you so much time in the long run.
One thing I look for in DAW tutorials for mixing is whether they teach you how to use the DAW's routing capabilities effectively. So many mixers underutilize things like aux tracks, busses, and VCAs because they don't understand how powerful they can be.
There's a Reaper tutorial series by Reaper Mania" that's incredible for this. Kenny Gioia shows you how to set up complex routing for parallel processing, sidechain compression, and other advanced techniques using Reaper's flexible routing system.
Even if you don't use Reaper, watching those tutorials can give you ideas for how to set up similar routing in your own DAW. The concepts translate even if the specific implementation differs.
As someone trying to learn, I get really frustrated with DAW tutorials for mixing that assume I already know where everything is. Like just go to the mixer view" but they don't show you how to get there or what it looks like.
The most helpful ones for me have been the "from scratch" tutorials where someone starts with a blank session and builds everything up step by step. There's this FL Studio tutorial series by "In The Mix" where he starts with raw recordings and mixes an entire song, explaining every single step.
Also, tutorials that compare how to do the same thing in different DAWs are really helpful. Like "here's how you set up a bus in Pro Tools vs. Logic vs. Ableton." It helps you understand the concepts rather than just memorizing steps.
What I appreciate in DAW tutorials for mixing is when they focus on the unique features that can give you an edge. For example, Cubase has this feature called Frequency that's like a spectral analyzer built right into the EQ. There are tutorials that show you how to use it for surgical EQ moves that would be much harder in other DAWs.
Similarly, Studio One has this great drag and drop workflow for effects and routing that can speed up your mixing process significantly. Tutorials that show you how to leverage these unique features are much more valuable than generic mixing advice.
Also, any tutorial that shows you how to customize your DAW for mixing workflow is worth watching. Setting up templates, screensets, or custom workspaces can make you much more efficient.