We accept Pro Tools (preferred)

Cubase / Logic / Studio One sessions

or a Zipped Multitrack Folder

Form and Frequency – Mix Prep Guidelines

To ensure the smoothest possible mixing process, please follow these guidelines before submitting your files or session:

1. Track Timing & Consolidation

  • Ensure all editing is complete (timing, comping, trimming) before submission.

  • Remove all count-ins, chatter, and noise from the beginning and end of clips.

  • Apply fade-ins and fade-outs to every clip to eliminate digital pops or clicks.

  • After cleanup, consolidate each track into one continuous audio file that starts exactly one bar before the downbeat. All tracks should be the same length and line up at the same start time.

2. Comping & Tuning

  • Please finalize all comping for vocals, instruments, or takes before submitting.

  • If you've applied pitch correction or tuning, commit/render those edits unless we’ve discussed an alternate approach.

  • If you’re unsure about a comp or tuning choice, feel free to include alternate takes in a clearly labeled folder or send a reference mix.

3. Session File Prep (if sending a full DAW session)

  • Create a duplicate of your session file and rename it clearly, e.g., SongTitle_BPM_Artist_ForMix.ptx

  • Remove unused playlists, hidden tracks, and inactive takes to streamline the session and prevent confusion.

4. Multitrack Export Prep (if exporting WAVs or stems)

  • Rename all exported audio files with clear, simple labels (avoid default names like Audio_01.wav).

  • Use the following prefixes to organize your tracks:

    • D_ – Drums

    • P_ – Percussion

    • B_ – Bass

    • G_ – Guitars

    • K_ – Keys, Synths, Strings

    • V_ – Lead Vocals or Dubs

    • BV_ – Background Vocals / Harmonies

    • FX_ – Effects, Risers, Impacts, etc.

    Example: D_Overhead_L, D_KikIn, B_BassAmp, V_Lead, BV_HighStack

  • Export all files from bar 1, even if there’s silence at the start, to ensure alignment.

5. Track Organization & Cleanup

  • Organize your session or folder so that instrument groups are kept together (e.g., drums first, then bass, then guitars, etc.).

  • Delete empty or unused tracks to keep the session clean and focused.

  • If you’re unsure whether a track will be used, label it clearly (e.g., ALT_Take, Scratch, Do_Not_Use).

Quick Checklist Before You Send:

  • ✔️ Final edits and comps completed

  • ✔️ All tracks consolidated, clearly labeled, and equal length

  • ✔️ Session or folder is renamed clearly

  • ✔️ Unused or empty tracks deleted

  • ✔️ Tuning and pitch correction committed (unless discussed otherwise)

  • ✔️ Fade-ins and fade-outs added to all clips

  • ✔️ All files start one bar before the song

Following these steps ensures we can get to work right away and deliver the best possible result.

Questions? Reach out: marc@formandfrequency.com

Thank You 🙌