How to avoid distracting volume changes when mixing?

[Soundsounds92]

For example, when I’ve got two mics on an instrument/amp and want to mix them together. Or any two channels in a session.

When I’m subtly adjusting their levels within the context of the mix (i.e. turn one up, then the other down to compensate), it’s hard to compare which mix is the most suitable because I can only move one fader at a time.

And if it gets louder at any point, my brain is there telling me it sounds better.

Any suggestions welcome. Trying to avoid buying a physical set of faders if possible.

 

[Peter Ostry]

As a basic rule: There are not more than one or two equally important sounds at the same moment. If you change one and then the other sound, then go back to the first and so on, this will never end. Decide which sound or player is most interesting and adjust others to just support this one.

Another good technique is, not to listen to the sound you are changing but rather to "the other" sound. For example, if you want a flute to sit perfectly within a guitar sound, don't concentrate on the flute. Listen to the guitar while you change the flute. This needs a bit of training but works pretty well.