I am on Ableton and have tried to mix a track. The peak levels differ slightly every time I give it a go. I assume the effect chains cause it. Is that correct?

 

If you have some kind of randomization there, then yes. It depends on the effects in the chain.

 

Assuming you're talking about subtle variations,
I think reverbs/delays in the fx chain can cause this type of behavior too. Good quality harmonic distortions would have some amount of randomness to it.

If you're having huge fluctuations, then maybe some sort of automation is to blame.

Remove all FX and try to recreate the issue.

 

Last edited: Jun 28, 2023

Depends on what you mix and with what. Audio, EQs compressors only, shouldn't happen. Choruses (and the like), free running oscs in synths, round robins, very likely.