Final checks
Comparing with a reference
A reference is only useful at equal level.
Comparing your work with a reference track helps judge tonal balance, dynamics and space. But if the reference is louder it will always seem better: perceived levels must be matched.
The game makes the comparison at equal loudness: only differences in timbre, dynamics and space remain.
Get into the habit of comparing often and briefly: the ear quickly adapts to whatever it hears for long.
Listen for
- Each version's low / mid / high balance.
- Dynamics: which one breathes, which one is denser.
The classic mistake
Comparing at different levels: you will pick the louder version, not the better one.
Put it into practice
Reference comparison · Discovery
Reference comparisonThe lesson is complete when the level is passed (35/50).