Can you further breakdown what you use each component in the chain for? This thread is a godsend. It's very informative. I initially viewed advanced mixing and mastering as something that's a little out of my league, because the jargon and technical aspect was overwhelming, but I've received a lot of tips and resources in this thread to give me confidence that I can engineer. I understand that it will still take years to master or become an expert, but that's perfectly fine with me. I'm currently reading the mixing concepts PDF you posted. Also, I managed to find Ozone Isotope 5 and Fab Filter, so I have that i my arsenal now
Also, I have a few other questions:
You stated earlier to mix everything together. Are there any exceptions to that rule?
From a little research, I'v learned that, in general, the sample or main melody should be in the center, the baseline should be in the center, the hats and cymbals should be on opposite side of each other, and the crash should move from left to right ore vice versa. From this diagram, it looks like the snare should be slight right or left, am I correct? Also, do you have anything to add to this? I know it's just a general guideline, but I'm just trying to get some core principles down.
What's the difference between stereo separation and panning? When should I use one over the other, or do I use them both?
I'm a little confused on when to put a compressor, eq, etc.. on a individual or master track. I really don't know what should be put on each instrument, and what should be put only on the master track.
Any rules or tips on mixing via headphones vs studio monitors. I have a decent set of monitors, but I can always hear the panning a little better on headphones. Do people generally use both, or just one?
For the record, I make sample based hip hop beats, so these questions are for beats only, without vocals.
Just saw this today, I'm halfway through and one of the tips already improved a mix I'm working on rn 
definitely some new info though