AI mixing for beginners is the process of using artificial intelligence software to automatically balance, process, and polish your audio recordings into a professional-sounding mix without requiring any prior mixing knowledge or experience. Traditional audio mixing requires years of ear training, understanding of signal processing concepts like EQ and compression, expensive software, and studio hardware. AI mixing tools eliminate all of those prerequisites. You upload your audio files, the AI analyzes and processes them, and you download a finished mix. This guide, part of our AI mixing tools series, takes you through the entire process step by step.
What You Need Before You Start
The requirements for AI mixing are minimal. You need audio files of your song (either individual stems or a stereo bounce), a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge), and an internet connection. That is the complete list. You do not need a DAW, plugins, studio monitors, or any audio engineering knowledge.
If you have recorded your song in any application and can export it as a WAV or MP3 file, you have everything you need. GarageBand, BandLab, FL Studio, Ableton, Logic Pro, or even a voice memo app on your phone can produce files that AI mixing tools can process.
Tip for Best Results
If possible, export individual stems (vocal, beat, bass, drums separately) rather than a single stereo file. Stems give the AI more control over each element and produce noticeably better results. But a stereo bounce works too, thanks to AI stem separation technology.
Step 1: Create a Free Account
Head to the signup page and create a free account. The free tier on Genesis Mix Lab includes three full mixes per month with no quality restrictions and no watermarks on the output. You do not need a credit card to sign up. Enter your email, set a password, and you are in.
Once logged in, you will see the project dashboard. This is where all your mixes live. Each mix is a project that you can revisit, adjust, and re-export at any time. Your first project is one click away.
Step 2: Prepare Your Audio Files
Before uploading, take a minute to organize your files. If you are uploading stems, name each file clearly: "Vocals.wav," "Beat.wav," "Bass.wav," "Drums.wav." Clear naming helps the AI classify each track and apply appropriate processing. Avoid generic names like "Track 1" or "Audio."
Ideally, export your stems as WAV files at the same sample rate and bit depth your project uses (usually 44.1 kHz / 24-bit or 48 kHz / 24-bit). MP3 files work but start with lower quality. Make sure all stems are the same length and start at the same point in time so they align correctly when the AI processes them together.
If you only have a single stereo file of your entire song, that works too. The AI will use stem separation to isolate the individual elements before mixing. The results are slightly better with pre-separated stems, but a stereo bounce produces good results for most music.
Step 3: Upload and Select Your Genre
Create a new project and upload your audio files. The upload supports drag and drop or file browser selection. Once your files are uploaded, the AI begins analyzing them and will suggest a genre classification based on the spectral characteristics of your audio.
Review the suggested genre and adjust if needed. The genre selection is important because it determines the processing profile: a hip-hop mix gets heavier bass treatment and vocal presence, while an acoustic folk mix gets a lighter, more dynamic approach. There are 50+ genre presets available, so scroll through and pick the one that best matches your track.
You can also select a reference track if you have one. A reference track is a professionally mixed song in a similar style that you want your mix to sound like. The AI uses the reference's spectral profile as a target for EQ matching. This is optional but can significantly improve results if you have a clear sonic vision.
Step 4: Review and Adjust Your Mix
After processing, you can play back the mixed version directly in the browser. Listen on headphones first, then check on speakers if you have them. Pay attention to the vocal level (is it clear and present?), the low end (is it tight or boomy?), and the overall balance (can you hear every element?).
If something needs adjustment, you can modify individual track levels, EQ settings, and effect amounts. Do not feel pressured to change things if it sounds good. The goal is a mix that sounds polished and balanced on most playback systems. Understanding what quality level to expect from AI mixing helps you evaluate the output with realistic expectations.
Step 5: Export Your Finished Mix
When you are happy with the mix, export it. Choose your format (WAV for maximum quality, MP3 for smaller file size) and download. The exported file is ready for distribution, upload to streaming platforms, or sharing with collaborators.
If you plan to master the mix separately or through the platform's mastering tools, export the mix as a high-quality WAV at the original sample rate. If you are uploading directly to a distributor like DistroKid or TuneCore, WAV at 44.1 kHz / 16-bit or 24-bit is the standard requirement.
Tips for Getting Better AI Mixes
Record cleanly
AI mixing cannot fix poor recordings. Remove background noise, avoid clipping, and record in the quietest environment available. A clean recording gives the AI the best starting material.
Separate your stems
Whenever possible, export individual tracks from your DAW. The more stems you provide, the more control the AI has over each element. At minimum, separate vocals from instruments.
Choose the right genre
Genre selection determines the processing profile. A mislabeled genre can result in processing that does not match your style. If your track blends genres, pick the primary one.
Use a reference track
Uploading a reference track that matches your desired sound gives the AI a concrete target. This is especially helpful if you have a specific tonal balance in mind.
Listen on multiple systems
Check your mix on headphones, earbuds, phone speakers, and car speakers. A good mix translates across all playback systems. If something sounds off on one system, adjust and re-export.
Where to Go from Here
Once you have completed your first AI mix, you are no longer a beginner. Here are the logical next steps to deepen your understanding and improve your results. Learn about the technology behind AI mixing to understand what the AI is doing to your audio. Compare AI mixing with human engineers to understand when each approach makes sense. And explore the best free AI mixing tools to see how different platforms compare.
As your ear develops, you will start making more intentional adjustments to the AI output. That is when the real learning happens. Use AI mixing as a teacher: compare its decisions against what you hear and build your mixing instincts over time. Many professional engineers started their journey with AI-assisted tools before developing the skills for fully manual mixing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready for Your First AI Mix?
Create a free account and upload your track. Your first professional mix is minutes away. No experience required.