Building a mix by adding tracks in descending order of importance reduces processing artifacts on the most critical sounds

The order in which instruments are added to a mix determines how much processing each needs. Starting with the most important sound (often lead vocal or kick drum, depending on genre) means processing those tracks in an uncrowded mix where there is room to maneuver — they therefore end up with less processing and fewer artifacts. Each subsequent, less important track must negotiate for space in an increasingly crowded balance, and will need more heavy-handed processing as a result. This also optimizes CPU resource allocation: the best-quality (most CPU-hungry) plug-ins can be deployed on the most important tracks early on when computing power is abundant. Genre determines what to start with: rock engineers often begin with drums/bass; pop producers often start with vocals.

Examples

If you mix your lead vocal first while only the drums and bass are playing, you can find a natural fader setting with minimal compression. If you add it last, it has to fight through a crowded mix and may require heavy compression to stay audible.

Assessment

Explain why a lead vocal mixed early in the session might need less compression than the same vocal mixed after all other instruments are already placed. What does this imply about which instruments should get your best-quality plug-ins?