Panning left or right may be the answer to the question some sound engineers have been asking about their mix.

We talk EQ, compression, reverb, and levels—but many overlook one of the simplest, yet most powerful tools in live and studio mixing: panning.

Let’s talk about it.

What Is Panning?

Panning is short for panoramic control. It lets you place a sound anywhere between the left and right speakers (or ears if you’re on headphones). Think of your mix as a wide stage—panning helps decide where each performer stands.

With good panning, you can turn a crowded, muddy mix into a clear, dimensional experience.

Why Is Panning So Important?

Creates Space Without EQ Instead of cutting frequencies to make room, you can simply move instruments apart across the stereo field. Mimics a Real Stage Setup In live sound or worship environments, panning can match the physical position of the musicians. If the keyboardist is on the left of the stage, pan them slightly left—it helps the audience’s brain connect visually and sonically. Improves Clarity and Width When everything is centered, your mix feels “mono” and flat. Panning spreads instruments across the stereo image, helping each one breathe.

Real-World Example with a Keyboard

Say your keyboard has strings on the left and piano on the right. If you pan your keyboard LEFT, you’ll hear mostly strings. Pan RIGHT, and you’ll get mostly piano.

This is intentional stereo programming—some keyboards are layered this way to help you sculpt your live mix right from the source.

So, if your keyboard has two outputs (L/R), make sure you use both. If you only use one, you’re likely missing part of the sound!

What About Guitar Pedals?

Many stereo guitar pedals (especially delay, reverb, chorus) also output different signals to the left and right. When used correctly, you get a wider, more ambient tone. If you’re running mono (just one output), you’re only hearing half the effect.

Live Sound: How I Do It

Personally, I never underestimate panning in my mix:

I keep lead vocals and bass dead center. I pan background vocals, keys, guitars, and FX returns tastefully left and right. For live bands, I mimic the stage layout in my panning. This not only sounds better but looks and feels more natural to the audience.

Stereo Isn’t Optional—It’s an Advantage

Even in mono systems (some churches or budget venues), understanding panning helps you plan your mix better for when you do upgrade.

Final Tip:

Before reaching for EQ, reverb, or even volume, try panning first. You’ll be shocked how clean your mix becomes when sounds have their own space.

Until next time

Olayinka Adebayo (Mixedbydrcrack)

Sound Engineer | Educator | Consultant