Guidelines for Critical Listening and Recording Evaluation

A Good Mix (dynamic balance, blend)

Wide Range (extended low- and high-frequency response)

Tonal Balance (balance of lows, mids, highs)

Clean Sound (free from distortion or noise from recording process)

Clarity (each instrument or sound is distinct, in space and frequency range)

Smoothness (not harsh, lack of excessive boosting)

Presence (sense of closeness of the instruments)

Sharp Transients (clarity in attacks--drums, cymbals, etc.)

Tight Bass and Drums (locked together, and equalized for presence and clarity)

Wide and Detailed Stereo Imaging (balanced left-right presentation, with some front-back depth)

Wide but Controlled Dynamic Range (noticeable changes between loud and soft, but not excessively boosted or compressed)

Interesting Sounds (choise of instruments, special effects--used with discretion)

Suitable Production (the sound of the recording should match the musical style)