Great post.
One thing that I have always found to be extremely helpful with mixing and arrangement is listening away from the equipment - on your iPod or in a car if you drive, I don't so use the iPod on the bus. Anything that doesn't work will stand out like a saw thumb when listening like this.
Also, personally I find that leaving a mix for a few weeks (if you can) and then going back and listening to it gives me a better idea of weather it really works or not. Sometimes I get sick of something or too invested and judgement goes to the wayside so a reasonable break can help a lot in your evaluation. Of course this only applies if you are making music for yourself and have the luxury of all that time.
Thanks for your comment.
I try to listen away from equipment as well, oscillating between headphones, living room stereo, and especially car stereo. It never hurts to hear how the mix is translating outside a studio space.
I completely agree with taking a break from mixing and coming back to it with fresh ears. Like you said, judgement can get sketchy, and walking away for some time will help regain focus and objectivity.
I suppose if you're a professional with quick turnaround deadlines, you probably don't have the luxury of taking a break for weeks, or even a couple days. Even then, the ears need a break throughout the day. Maybe 10-15 minute breaks for every 1.5hrs; maybe a 30-60 minute break every 4 hrs; etc.
Respect the ears!
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