The Mixing Mastery of Michael Brauer

Michael Brauer is a highly acclaimed mixing engineer whose career has spanned over three decades. Known for his unique approach to sound and an impressive discography, Brauer has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, earning recognition for creating lush, dynamic mixes that resonate with listeners. In this blog post, we’ll explore Michael Brauer’s mixing philosophy, his favorite plugins and gear, and an in-depth overview of his extensive discography.

Mixing Philosophy

At the core of Michael Brauer’s mixing philosophy is the belief that every mix should tell a story. He aims to create an emotional connection between the music and the listener. His approach is characterized by several key principles:

1. Storytelling Through Sound

Brauer believes that every song has a narrative, and his goal is to enhance that narrative through mixing. He often immerses himself in the lyrics and the overall vibe of the track, allowing him to intuitively understand how to shape the sound to support the story being told. This holistic approach means that every decision he makes in the mixing process is informed by the song’s emotional arc.

2. Balance and Depth

Brauer emphasizes the importance of balance and depth in his mixes. He strives to create a soundscape where each element has its place, contributing to an overall cohesive experience. To achieve this, he meticulously adjusts levels, panning, and EQ, ensuring that no single element overshadows another while still allowing standout moments.

3. Dynamic Range

One of Brauer’s defining characteristics is his use of dynamic range. He believes that dynamics are crucial for maintaining listener engagement. By using various compression techniques, Brauer creates contrasts between quieter and louder sections, which helps to build tension and release throughout the track.

4. Layering and Textures

Brauer often employs a technique of layering different sounds and textures to create depth. This involves using multiple instruments, vocal takes, and effects to build a rich sonic tapestry. He pays close attention to how these layers interact, making subtle adjustments to ensure clarity and separation.

5. Embracing Imperfection

Brauer advocates for embracing the imperfections in recordings. He believes that the unique quirks of a performance can add character and authenticity to a mix. Rather than trying to achieve a sterile, perfect sound, he allows the natural variances in a performance to shine through, adding a human touch to his mixes.

Mixing Equipment

Michael Brauer’s mixing setup is a harmonious blend of analog and digital tools, allowing him to achieve his signature sound. Here are some key components of his mixing equipment:

Analog Gear

1. Neve Consoles

• Brauer is known for using Neve mixing consoles, particularly the Neve 8068, which is celebrated for its warmth and depth. The analog circuitry contributes to a rich, full-bodied sound that is difficult to replicate in the digital realm.

2. SSL Compressors

• Solid State Logic compressors are a staple in Brauer’s arsenal. He often uses the SSL G-Series Bus Compressor, which is known for its ability to glue mixes together while retaining clarity and punch.

3. Pultec EQs

• Pultec equalizers are legendary for their musicality and are integral to Brauer’s mixing process. He uses them to enhance the tonal quality of his mixes, carefully boosting and cutting frequencies to achieve the desired character.

4. API Modules

• API preamps and EQs are favored by Brauer for their punchy sound and ability to cut through a mix. He often utilizes API 550 EQs to shape the sound of drums and guitars.

5. Vintage Effects Processors

• Brauer sometimes incorporates vintage gear like the EMT 140 plate reverb and Lexicon 480L digital reverb to add depth and richness to his mixes.

Digital Plugins

In addition to his analog gear, Brauer incorporates a wide range of plugins into his mixing process. Some of his favorites include:

• Waves SSL G-Master Buss Compressor

• This plugin emulates the hardware SSL G-Series compressor and is often used for achieving the signature “glue” that holds a mix together.

• FabFilter Pro-Q 3

• A versatile EQ plugin that offers precise frequency adjustments. Brauer appreciates its clean interface and powerful features, allowing for surgical corrections without compromising the mix’s integrity.

• Soundtoys Decapitator

• This plugin is a go-to for adding warmth and character through subtle saturation. Brauer employs it to enhance vocals and instruments, giving them a more analog feel.

• iZotope Ozone

• A comprehensive mastering suite that Brauer sometimes utilizes for its powerful processing capabilities in the final stages of mixing. Its suite of tools allows for detailed adjustments and enhancements.

• Valhalla VintageVerb

• Brauer uses this reverb plugin to create lush spatial effects that contribute to the depth and atmosphere of his mixes.

Discography Highlights

Michael Brauer’s discography is a testament to his versatility and skill as a mixing engineer, showcasing a range of iconic albums that have achieved significant commercial success. Below are ten of the top-selling albums he has worked on:

Top 10 Albums Based on Sales

1. Coldplay – A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002)

• Estimated sales: 8 million copies worldwide. This critically acclaimed album features hits like “Clocks” and “The Scientist,” showcasing Brauer’s ability to blend emotional depth with sonic clarity.

2. John Mayer – Continuum (2006)

• Estimated sales: 3 million copies in the U.S. alone. This Grammy-winning album features soulful guitar work and emotionally charged lyrics, perfectly captured through Brauer’s mixing.

3. Bob Dylan – Modern Times (2006)

• Estimated sales: 2.5 million copies worldwide. This album marked Dylan’s return to form, with Brauer’s mixing enhancing the timeless quality of his songwriting.

4. The Strokes – First Impressions of Earth (2006)

• Estimated sales: 1.5 million copies worldwide. Brauer’s mix helped capture the raw energy of The Strokes, making it a defining record of the 2000s.

5. The Black Keys – Turn Blue (2014)

• Estimated sales: 1 million copies in the U.S. This album showcased Brauer’s ability to blend blues-rock with modern production techniques, earning critical acclaim.

6. Morrissey – World Peace Is None of Your Business (2014)

• Estimated sales: 500,000 copies worldwide. Brauer’s mixing brought out the intricate arrangements and emotional weight of Morrissey’s lyrics.

7. Maroon 5 – Songs About Jane (2002)

• Estimated sales: 10 million copies worldwide. While Brauer only mixed a few tracks, his influence on the sound of this album contributed to its massive success.

8. Kings of Leon – Only by the Night (2008)

• Estimated sales: 3 million copies in the U.S. alone. Brauer’s mix helped elevate the band’s sound, leading to chart-topping hits like “Sex on Fire.”

9. Train – Drops of Jupiter (2001)

• Estimated sales: 1.6 million copies in the U.S. This album features the iconic title track, with Brauer’s mixing enhancing the emotional resonance of the band’s sound.

10. Sheryl Crow – C’mon, C’mon (2001)

• Estimated sales: 2 million copies worldwide. Brauer’s mixing on this album contributed to its commercial success, featuring hits like “Soak Up the Sun.”

These projects showcase Brauer’s ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his distinctive mixing signature.

Conclusion

Michael Brauer’s blending of technical skill and artistic vision has made him a sought-after mixing engineer in the music industry. His unique philosophy, combined with a carefully curated selection of analog and digital tools, enables him to create mixes that are not only sonically rich but also deeply engaging. For any aspiring mixing engineer or music enthusiast, studying Brauer’s techniques and gear can provide invaluable insights into the art of mixing.

Whether you’re a fan of his work or interested in the mixing process, Michael Brauer’s contributions to music continue to inspire and influence artists and engineers around the world. His dedication to storytelling through sound, along with his mastery of both modern and vintage equipment, makes him a true luminary in the realm of audio mixing.