Many engineers recommend mixing and mastering at 80-85dB listening level — this is a healthy volume level that our ears can tolerate for extended periods of time, and that provides for the most “flat” response from our ears. However, it’s a common mistake to simply set the volume level as you begin a mixing or mastering session, then to leave it at the same setting for the rest of the session. What happens is, as we add dynamics processing and EQ, the volume level of the mix or master begins to creep up.
Our advice: check and recheck your listening levels as the session progresses, adjusting the monitor volume to maintain that 80-85dB level. You’ll get more consistent mixing/mastering results, with less ear fatigue and better overall tonal balance.
