miksaajat

Miksaajat (Finnish for "mixers" or "sound mixers") are professionals who create the final audio balance in recordings, broadcasts, films, and live events. The term can refer to production sound mixers on set as well as post-production sound mixers, and in music production to those who mix recorded tracks.

On set, a production sound mixer (äänimiksaaja) is responsible for capturing clean dialogue and on-location sound. They manage microphones, monitor levels, and coordinate with the crew to minimize noise and technical issues. In post-production, a re-recording mixer (re-recording miksaaja) combines dialogue, music, and sound effects to produce the final soundtrack, adjusting levels, equalization, dynamics, and space (reverb, ambience) for each scene and format.

In music production, miksaajat balance instruments, vocals, and effects to create the final stereo or surround mix. They work with multi-track recordings in studios or during live sessions, applying processing and automation to achieve the intended artistic effect.

Common tools include digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live, along with hardware consoles, equalizers, compressors, and effects processors. Skilled miksaajat possess strong listening skills, technical knowledge of signal flow, and the ability to communicate with directors, producers, composers, and editors. They often work as part of a larger sound department or production team and may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.