What I do is have a compressor on the master channel (reason for this,is it gives you a true impression of your final sound) Don't compress everything,and learn to pan, use the EQ8 , reverbs ,etc for space,learn to read your meters for levels Use those ears ,too he,he Make groups for say drums,put a compressor on that group (buss compression) .The ability to have parallel compression is great as there is a dry wet control now! Also the new Live 9 Glue compressor, is excellent for the master channel,as it to has a dry wet control too!! make use of the new EQ 8 too,and that superb graphical display. And have a look at Olav's mixing and mastering tutorials for great tips and techniques

Thanks Spencer. Olav's new Ableton tutorial is a great example of how to mix and apply mastering processes to your projects. I'm really enjoying the new Glue Compressor. I put it on everything and rarely jump to other compressors now.

One of Olav's tips is to not have your kick too loud. Also, carve away anything you don't need from your tracks with EQ. This is very true on the low end. Watch your highs too. Carve away the highest of the highs. Choosing the right elements during the production process is important too. Make sure your not trying to make your timbres sound right with eq. They should sound how you want them to sound without over processing. (eg. Forcing a kick or hi hat to sound differently with eq). A big sound starts with a judicious use of elements and a good mix.