Final Vocal Export Checklist
The Full Hierarchy, One Last Time
Hierarchy of Importance
Hierarchy of Importance
Before you export anything, zoom out.
Every great vocal mix follows the same hierarchy. If something feels off at the end, the fix is usually earlier, not later.
This checklist walks top to bottom through that hierarchy - from the most important decisions to the least.
Song & Performance
Highest Priority
Get this right before anything else
Note: No amount of processing fixes a performance problem. If something feels wrong here, moving forward won't fix it.
Recording Quality
Next layer of the hierarchy
Note: If the vocal doesn't sound at least 80-90% good raw, stop here.
Vocal Prep & Editing
This is where most producers rush - and where pros slow down
Note: If the vocal is prepped well, mixing becomes easy. If mixing feels hard, revisit this step.
Core Vocal Tone
EQ & Compression
Now we ask: does the vocal sound right?
Note: EQ decides where. Compression decides how upfront.
Depth, Polish & Movement
The 3d vocal sound that evolves
Note: Static vocals = static emotion. Impact comes from contrast.
Doubles, Harmonies, and Backing Vocals
Use these to add more energy, depth, and width
Note: Many great songs have more vocal layers then you think.
Mixing the Vocals
Context Check
Note: If the vocal feels "too loud" or "too quiet," the problem is often space or tone, not fader level.
Master Bus
Last in the Hierarchy
Mastering does not fix vocal problems.
Note: Song loudness is the *last thing* to worry about for the vocal sound
Reference Track
Vocal Perspective
Use reference tracks only for calibration.
Note: You're not going for an exact match, just in the ballpark.
The Vibe Check
Eyes Closed
Sounds crazy, but trust.
Note: If you don't feel the urge to tweak something, you're probably done.
The Final Question
Before exporting, ask yourself:
"Did I solve this at the highest level possible?"
If yes - export it.
Final Reminder
This Is the Real Lesson
The biggest takeaway from this course isn't a plugin chain. It's this hierarchy:
"Better decisions earlier
mean fewer fixes later."
If you trust the process, your vocals will mix themselves.
Export the song. Move on. Make the next one better.
Your progress is automatically saved as you check items.
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