Compare Nine Professional Mixes

1. Choose a section of the song (for example, the main riff or chorus).
2. Start playback with one producer selected.
3. While the audio continues, switch between producers.
4. Focus on specific aspects, such as:
   • perceived heaviness and density,
   • drum impact and low-end control,
   • guitar texture and mid-range weight,
   • vocal integration.

There is no correct answer. The aim is to notice patterns in how heaviness is achieved and to relate them to the metrics shown.

Across all mixes, acoustic hardness (spectral-textural density) explains a large proportion of the variance in perceived heaviness (r ≈ .775, R² ≈ .60), with punch playing a secondary, asymmetrical role. Focus your listening on:

• Perceived heaviness and density: How "heavy" does the mix feel? Is it from sustained spectral density or transient impact?
• Drum impact and low-end control: How do kick and bass interact? Does punch come from transients or sustained low-frequency energy?
• Guitar texture and mid-range weight: Notice the "noise formant" (1.6-3.2 kHz) – the primary driver of perceived heaviness. How saturated and dense is this region?
• Vocal integration: How are vocals balanced against guitars and drums when heaviness is highest? Do they add clarity or get absorbed into the density?