Analog summing is a mixing technique used in music production where the final mix of a song is combined or “summed” using an analog mixing console or hardware device rather than a digital audio workstation (DAW). This means that instead of relying on the internal mixing capabilities of the DAW, each individual track or stem is routed out of the DAW and into an analog summing device, which combines and balances the levels of the individual tracks to create the final mix.

The idea behind analog summing is that the analog circuits and components in the mixing console or summing device can add a certain “color” or character to the mix, which can be difficult to achieve with purely digital mixing. Some engineers and producers believe that this analog “warmth” can help to create a more natural and organic-sounding mix.

While digital mixing has become increasingly popular and capable in recent years, many professional mixing engineers still prefer to use analog summing for its perceived sonic benefits. However, analog summing can be expensive and may not be necessary for all types of music production, as digital mixing can achieve excellent results when done properly.