Chapter 12 - Posted on 2014-05-14 by James Gazzola

A stereo image is created by adjusting panning, the left to right attenuation, and volume, the relative loudness of tracks in a mix. Loudness determines proximity: quiet things are interpreted psychoacoustically as distant, loud as close. The Pan Law states specific loudness will change from -3dB to 0dB, while perceived loudness stays the same. Everything in a mix affects everything else, so in separating tracks in stereo to right and left a balance is acheived; for example bass guitar and bass drum can be separated to right and left as they have similar frequencies, likewise with two electric guitars jamming in tandem.