Finish a muddy mix without stripping its body
Mud is usually an accumulation problem. Find which sources occupy the same low-mid region at the same time.
Diagnosis
- Check 120-500 Hz in context.
- Mute groups to locate the contributors.
- Compare low-mid energy against a level-matched reference.
Decision
- Remove unnecessary lows source by source.
- Use small arrangement or envelope changes before a broad master EQ cut.
- Recheck vocal/body balance after each low-mid move.
Measurement boundary
A spectral tilt can describe the symptom; the mix buses tell you where to act.
Common failure: A large master high-pass or low-mid scoop can hide the cause and thin every source at once.