Automatically turns down loud peaks, allowing you to raise the overall level of a track so it sits firmly in the mix [5].
Simulates physical spaces. Reverb adds glue and lushness; delay adds depth without washing out the clarity [6]. Mixing Audio: Concepts, Practices and Tools
Remove unwanted noise or harsh frequencies. Automatically turns down loud peaks, allowing you to
Periodically comparing your mix to professional tracks in the same genre to stay objective about your frequency balance and loudness [9]. Remove unwanted noise or harsh frequencies
Controlling the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of a signal to create a consistent, polished sound [5].
Label tracks, color-code, and group similar instruments (e.g., all drums to a "Drum Bus").
Some engineers start with the "money" tracks (vocals/drums) and build around them, while others mix the entire bus first before diving into individual tracks [8].