I agree with everything you say there randomguy.
I personally do it slightly different than than, but the basic principles i use are exactly the same....
I produce several different styles of music from pop (I'm producing tracks for Natasha Hamilton's new album) to scouse (donk like the 2 tracks i've just had on the new Hard Energy album from ministry) i'm also working with Soraya and Jason from Riff's n Rays on some funky house and i've got some original hardcore tracks on the go too.....
so i think it's worth pointing out that different styles require different methods....although the principles you laid out are all the same....the order you do them in can change, depending on your "Dominant Sound" ( eg....hardcore or trance, donk and most club based dance music the kick drum is dominant so should be level'd 1st as you described.......in pop music, the vocal is the dominant sound so they should be level'd 1st)
the best tip i can offer is when you have finished your track......listen to a track that you consider similar to yours (but make sure it's a tune from a reputable producer ) and listen to how loud they have certain sounds.......play the track very very quiet. see which sounds stand out, and which are in the background.......background sounds only appear as you turn the volume up......your mixdown should work the same way.
remember.....my tips are meant to enhance the technique's that randomguy has already laid out.......not replace them as they are the basic fundamentals which must be followed if you want your production to sound professional.
Rave Safe .!!
Mike.
