Final answer:
To eliminate unwanted sounds when mixing vocals in a studio setting, techniques such as using a pop filter, applying a de-esser, using a high-pass filter, and using a noise gate are commonly employed.
Step-by-step explanation:
When mixing vocal in studio recordings, several techniques work best to eliminate unwanted popping, sibilance, and breath sounds. Firstly, using a pop filter is effective in reducing pops, which are caused by bursts of air when pronouncing plosive letters like 'p' and 'b'. A pop filter is a simple screen that is placed between the microphone and the vocalist. Secondly, applying a de-esser helps control sibilance, which occurs with 's' and 'sh' sounds, by attenuating high-frequency content when the level exceeds a certain threshold. Thirdly, a high-pass filter can be used to roll off low-frequency rumble and reduce breath sounds that are typically low in frequency. Lastly, a noise gate can help eliminate unwanted sounds by only allowing a signal through when it's above a certain level, effectively gating out sounds like background noise or quiet breaths between phrases.