Evaluate different mix bus processing techniques and discuss their impact on the overall sound and characteristics of an EDM mix, including the types of effects, the order they are applied and the settings.

You: Mix bus processing refers to applying effects to the main output bus, the final stage of the mixing process before mastering. These techniques are crucial for shaping the overall sound, glueing elements together, and achieving a polished and cohesive feel for an EDM mix. Different types of effects, their order, and the specific settings significantly impact the final sonic characteristics of the track. The mix bus is not the place to fix problems in the mix, but to add the final polishing touches that will elevate the overall sound. One of the most common mix bus processing techniques is the use of subtle compression. Unlike compression used on individual tracks to control dynamics, mix bus compression aims to glue the elements together, adding a sense of cohesion and fullness. A gentle compressor with a low ratio (around 1.5:1 to 2:1), slow attack (to preserve transients), and a medium-to-slow release (to avoid pumping) is often employed. For example, a VCA style compressor with a soft knee, a low threshold with a few dB of gain reduction might be used to subtly reduce the dynamic range, and to give a more cohesive and tighter feel, this is usually used to bring up the low-level details. Another approach would be to use a vari-mu type compressor for a smoother and more harmonic-rich compression with similar settings. This process will allow all the elements in the mix to work together in a more cohesive manner. EQ is also commonly used on the mix bus, but the focus here is on broad, gentle adjustments rather than precise cuts or boosts. The aim is to shape the overall tonal balance of the track. For instance, a subtle low shelf boost may ad....