A Mindset for Mix Engineering - with Carlos Ruiz / Ruez (NYC), Ep. 24
Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapCarlos Ruiz / Ruez Linkshttp://www.carlosruiznyc.com/https://www.instagram.com/ruez_nyc/https://www.traxsource.com/artist/151183/ruez?ipp=100https://www.facebook.com/carlos.ruiz.31945SummaryCarlos Ruiz, an audio engineer and DJ based in New York City, shares his journey in the music industry and his love for house music. He discusses how his day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business. Carlos also talks about the evolution of music production technology, including the use of AI, and the importance of maintaining the human essence in music creation. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously from an engineering business standpoint about six or seven years ago. He had been doing mixing for a long time before that, but it took him a while to feel comfortable charging for his services. He learned through trial and error and listened back to his early work to improve. Carlos believes that creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song. He uses visual references, such as films and artwork, to inspire his mixes. He also emphasizes the importance of balance and using techniques like reverbs and delays to create dimension in the mix. In this conversation, Carlos Ruiz shares his insights on the importance of taking breaks, physical activity, and mental health in the music industry. He also discusses some of the highlight reels of his career, including working with Ted Patterson and achieving vinyl releases with Rissa. Carlos emphasizes the importance of recognizing that as an engineer, you are there to assist and support the artist's vision, rather than taking ownership of the project. He also provides tips for aspiring mix engineers, such as focusing on learning how to listen, investing in good speakers and a well-treated room, and utilizing resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place.TakeawaysCarlos Ruiz has been involved in the music industry for over 20 years as an audio engineer, DJ, and label owner.His day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business, as he applies operations skills and creativity to both.Carlos discusses the evolution of music production technology, from vinyl records to digital formats, and the use of AI in music creation.He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the human essence in music, even with advancements in technology. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously about six or seven years ago, but had been doing it for a long time before that.Creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song.Visual references, such as films and artwork, can inspire the mix.Balance is crucial in mixing, and techniques like reverbs and delays can create dimension.It's important to constantly learn and improve in mixing, and collaboration and communication are key skills to develop.Finding a balance between work, music, and personal life is a challenge, but taking breaks and engaging in physical activity can help. Take breaks and engage in physical activity to break up the monotony and prevent feeling overwhelmed.Recognize that as an engineer, your role is to assist and support the artist's vision, not take ownership of the project.Invest in good speakers and create a well-treated room to ensure accurate monitoring and improve the quality of your mixes.Train your ears by listening in a flat and accurate environment, and learn how different tools and techniques affect the mix.Utilize resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place to enhance your knowledge and skills in mix engineering.
