Optimize MIDI tracks by editing performance data. This may control external MIDI keyboards or sound modules or internal virtual instruments. Data can be quantized, deleted or added until the performance you want is achieved.
Complete rough edits on audio tracks. This can include muting or deleting tracks where no performance is taking place. "Compositing" is a method of taking pieces of multiple passes of a performance, usually a lead vocal or instrumental solo, and making a final performance from those pieces.
Create a frequency spectrum sound stage for your tracks. Create space in the range of frequencies from low to high for each voice or instrument to be heard and interact with others without clashing or cluttering. Typical tools used for this are the Sonitus:equalizer, available on each audio track in the console view, and the Cakewalk Compressor/gate, which can be added to the "FX" section, also in the console view.
Create a spatial sound stage in the stereo image. This can also help define individual instruments and voices and should be used in conjunction with the previous step to open the mix. Panning is the first level of control, setting sounds from left to right. Time delay can be used to move instruments back. Cakewalk Tempo Delay and StudioVerb 2 can be added to the "FX" section of each track in the console view.
Add additional effects like modulation, amp and tape simulation, many of which are included with SONAR 8. SONAR 8 also supports VST and DirectX plug-ins to further increase your options.
Adjust levels of instruments, voices and effects until you have a result you are happy with. You may want to apply a mastering effect like Boost 11 to the output bus on the mastering section to treat the entire mix. Select all tracks to be included in the final mix by clicking the track icon on the left of the track view, and use "CTRL + F9" and "CTRL + F10" to set the start and finish points of the song.
Click on "File" from the toolbar, select "Export" from the drop-down menu and "Audio" from the pop-up window. In the dialog box, select a location for your mix, name it and define any other parameters needed, if they are different than the defaults. Click "Export" and SONAR will create your mix file.