Herb,

I use a very similar process. Almost identical. If I solo each channel and they don't sound exactly right, with different EQS and tools on almost every channel, and if I look at my meters and I don't see:

LUFS 12-14 (at least)

RMS 12 (at least)

DR 9-12 (at least)

I start over.

I only use the mastering tools when it sounds good enough as a mix, just to add polish.

If it does not sound good enough as a mix, I know I have done something wrong that "mastering" will never fix--because the cake is already baked.

This is a blank template, and nothing is playing, but it is to your point that I also use templates with carefully built presets for all the instruments and meters loaded ahead of time.

I also use separate busses for instruments and vocals because it makes things so much easier in mixing.


Attached Files (Click to download or enlarge) (Only available when you are logged in)
David Mixing Board.jpg (142.96 KB, 61 downloads)
David Snyder
Songwriter/Renaissance Man
Studio + Fingers

https://davidsnydersongs.com/
https://spoti.fi/359Gigs
www.davidsnydermusic.com/
www.reverbnation.com/davidpsnyder
www.soundcloud.com/davidsnyderchannel
https://www.songtradr.com/user/profile/david.snyder