I would like to thank everyone for their invaluable knowledge. Like I said, I have only been using cubase artist for a couple of weeks. But to answer SPLIT’s question…
I mix down a song on cubase. Meters all look good. I play a professional CD (steely dan, yes, etc) to compare if my volume levels are comparable. I know pro CDs use multi $$ equipment, but my volume is right there with the volume as a pro CD.
I export a mixdown to my desktop. I play back the mixdown and the overall volume is about half of what I originally heard in cubase. When I email the mixdown to band members, they all say it’s way too quiet and their media players levels are barely moving.
I am sorry if I am causing frustration with senior members, but I am just as frustrated. I really want to learn this. Maybe someday I’ll be able to help one of YOU!!