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Diagnosis first
PluginScout Diagnosis Guides
Start with the sound problem, work through the likely checks, then consider tools only when the diagnosis points that way.
Mix And Balance
Start with balance, masking, width and arrangement before reaching for processing.
Why does my mix sound muddy?Check low-mid buildup, arrangement density, reverbs, kick and bass balance before adding more plugins.Why does my mix sound amateur?Check focal point, static balance, arrangement clutter, automation, and over-processing before adding more plugins.Why does my mix sound narrow?Check panning, arrangement width, center congestion, stereo effects, and mono compatibility before widening everything.
Vocals And Lead Parts
Check level, masking, tone and focus before adding another processor.
Low End
Diagnose impact, definition, sustain and kick relationship before changing tools.
Why does my kick sound weak?Check kick source, level, transient, bass masking, and mono balance before reaching for a plugin.Why is my bass too boomy?Check bass resonance, note sustain, kick balance, room translation, and compression before changing plugins.Why does my bass lack definition?Check bass articulation, kick masking, midrange detail, sustain, and arrangement space before adding more low end.
Instruments And Space
Listen for performance, tone, register, depth and space before plugin swapping.
Why do my strings sound fake?Check MIDI dynamics, articulation, timing, phrasing, register, and library limits before trying to mix realism into strings.Why does my piano sound dull?Check piano register, velocity, masking, filtering, and reverb tone before boosting the top end.Why does my reverb sound cheap?Check reverb level, decay time, pre-delay, return EQ, and source balance before changing reverb plugins.
Mastering
Separate mix-stage problems from final loudness and limiter decisions.