Stereo & 5.1 Surround Mixing for Picture

Stereo remains the principal format for broadcast, streaming, websites, social media, presentations and most digital distribution. A successful stereo mix must maintain dialogue clarity and musical and effects balance across televisions, laptops, mobile devices, headphones and full-range playback systems.

A 5.1 mix uses separate left, center, right, surround and low-frequency channels to create a wider and more controlled listening experience. Dialogue is commonly anchored to the center while music, effects and environments can use the additional channels to support scale, movement and immersion.

MMS provides 5.1 mixing when required for theatrical presentation, festivals, broadcast, streaming or another supplied delivery specification.

The right format depends on where the project will be presented and what the distributor, network, platform, festival or client requires. Some productions need only a stereo master. Others require both stereo and 5.1 versions.

MMS reviews the supplied specifications before beginning the mix so the session and final deliverables can be organized correctly.

A mix should remain clear and balanced outside the primary mixing room. Dialogue, music and effects must translate appropriately between full-range systems and smaller consumer playback environments.

When stereo and 5.1 versions are both required, they are prepared and evaluated as related deliverables rather than assuming that one automatic conversion will satisfy every requirement.

• Trailers and promos
• Commercials and branded content
• Television and episodic programming
• Reality and competition programs
• Documentaries
• Independent feature films
• Concerts, awards programs and specials
• Featurettes and presentations
• Digital media

Depending on the agreed scope and supplied specifications, deliverables may include stereo and 5.1 full mixes, dialogue stems, music stems, effects stems, alternate versions and other required masters.

The exact deliverable package is confirmed before mixing begins.

Tell us where the project will be presented, which formats are required and whether you have a delivery specification. We will review the information and recommend an appropriate mixing and delivery plan.