Atmos Mix

Project Overview

For this project, you will create a Dolby Atmos mix in Logic Pro X. You have two options for source material:

1. Aiguille Rouge – Bebe Grand
   1. Or pick a similarly difficult multitrack of your choice.
2. The Film Lambs

Your task is to configure the session for Dolby Atmos, differentiate between bed and object tracks, and produce a technically compliant and creatively engaging immersive mix.

Learning Objectives

By completing this project, you will:

• Configure Logic Pro X for Dolby Atmos mixing at 24-bit / 48 kHz / 24 fps.
• Differentiate between bed tracks (static, ambient) and object tracks (dynamic, locative).
• Apply spatialization techniques to enhance immersion, narrative clarity, or musical impact.
• Meet Dolby Atmos loudness and technical delivery standards.
• Deliver a finished mix in both Logic Pro project format and ADM BWF format.

Creative Expectations

• Allocate tracks intentionally to beds or objects based on their role in the mix.
• Use at least four object tracks with panning automation that includes a variety of movement types (e.g., lateral, vertical, front-to-back).
• Ensure spatial decisions serve the arrangement’s clarity, emotional tone, or storytelling.
• Maintain a cohesive balance between static and moving elements to avoid listener fatigue.

Project Setup

Session Configuration

1. Set Project Audio Format
   • Go to Preferences -> Audio and set I/O to 24-bit, 48 kHz, 24 fps.
2. Enable Spatial Audio
   • Navigate to Project Settings -> Audio -> General.
   • Under “Spatial Audio,” select Dolby Atmos.
   • Set “Surround Format” to 7.1.2.
3. Bed Tracks
   • Use the Surround Panner for static, ambient, or foundational elements.
4. Object Tracks
   • Use the 3D Object Panner for moving elements or those requiring strong locative presence.
   • Automate movement to support creative goals.
5. Monitoring
   • Monitor in 7.1.4 via the Dolby Atmos Renderer plugin.

Mixing Guidelines

• Use panning automation on at least four object tracks, varying motion type and speed.
• Avoid stereo panning modes for object tracks—use full spatial controls for Atmos authenticity.
• On your Master track, meter after the Dolby Atmos Renderer plugin with the plugin’s monitoring format set to 5.1 — the spec measures a 5.1 render, not your 7.1.4 monitor mix. Match Dolby Atmos standards of -18 LUFS-I and -1 dBTP. See the Atmos delivery lesson for the full QC pass.

Submission Requirements

Submit the following:

1. Logic Pro X project folder with all media included.
2. ADM BWF export of your final mix, verified by re-importing it into an empty project.
3. Written reflection (1–2 paragraphs) addressing:
   • Your approach to bed vs. object allocation.
   • The reasoning behind your spatial automation choices.
   • Any technical challenges and how you solved them.

Holistic Rubric (60 points total)

Exceeds Expectations (54–60 points / 90–100%)

• Fully compliant technical setup and loudness standards.
• Spatialization choices are immersive, varied, and serve the mix’s creative goals.
• Seamless integration of beds and objects.
• Reflection is thorough, connecting technical decisions to creative outcomes.
• All files are complete, organized, and functional.

Meets Expectations (48–53 points / 80–89%)

• Minor technical or loudness issues that do not significantly affect playback.
• Spatialization is generally effective with some creative intent.
• Beds and objects are mostly well-integrated.
• Reflection addresses key prompts but lacks depth in some areas.
• Files are complete with minor organizational issues.

Approaches Expectations (42–47 points / 70–79%)

• Technical setup mostly correct but with occasional errors in format or loudness.
• Spatialization is functional but not consistently purposeful.
• Integration of beds and objects is uneven.
• Reflection is minimal or vague.
• Files are submitted but may be poorly organized.

Below Expectations (36–41 points / 60–69%)

• Noticeable technical errors in setup or loudness.
• Spatialization choices are inconsistent, ineffective, or distracting.
• Poor integration of beds and objects.
• Reflection is incomplete or fails to address major prompts.
• Missing or disorganized files.

Far Below Expectations (0–35 points / 0–59%)

• Incorrect technical setup or failure to meet loudness standards.
• Minimal or absent spatialization.
• No meaningful integration of beds and objects.
• Reflection missing or lacking substance.
• Submission incomplete, nonfunctional, or disorganized.

Grading Rubric (70 points total)

Total: ___ / 70