Use plugins in the hybrid domain for easy recallability
Problem: outboard gear recall issues
In the hybrid mixing setup, Marc Urselli primarily uses plugins instead of outboard gear for recallability. This ensures that all processing is digital and can be easily saved and recalled within the DAW. While the…
Use external distortion plugins for more flexibility than Serum's built-in options
Problem: limited distortion options in Serum
Serum's built-in distortion options can be limiting, so using external distortion plugins like Saturator or Overdrive in Ableton provides more flexibility and control. This allows for more creative and nuanced distortion…
Mistake: Assuming analogue gear is essential for mastering
Stefan Brown clarifies that gear (analogue or digital) is not inherently superior. The key is whether the tools help achieve the desired sound. Many successful masters are done entirely digitally. This challenges the…
Stock plugins are sufficient for mastering when combined with good monitoring
Problem: over-reliance on specialist plugins
The speaker confirms that stock plugins in DAWs like Ableton, Reaper, and Pro Tools are capable of high-level mastering. Specialist plugins are only necessary when stock tools hit a creative or technical bottleneck. The…
Technique: Use Kickstart to minimize ARP density
Problem: ARP too dense
The speaker suggests using the Kickstart feature (likely a plugin or sequencer function) to reduce the number of notes in the ARP. This technique helps maintain a delicate, background role for the ARP rather than letting…
Use a gain plugin instead of faders to maintain unity gain
Problem: inconsistent signal levels
Inserting a gain plugin allows precise level adjustments without affecting the signal's dynamic characteristics. This technique preserves the original signal's integrity while achieving the desired volume matching. It's…
Use analog emulation plugins for digital summing to mimic analog console behavior
Problem: digital mix lacks warmth and cohesion
Digital summing can sound lifeless compared to analog consoles. By routing stems through an analog-style mixer plugin (like Analog Observation or Waves NLS), you introduce subtle saturation and frequency shaping that…
Use vintage emulation plugins for texture
Problem: sterile modern production
The producer employs the Chow Tate Model plugin to add a 'vintage-y' character to the track. This technique demonstrates how specific tools can be used to achieve desired sonic textures and historical authenticity.
Use multi-effect plugins for modular processing
Problem: inefficient effect routing
Using a plugin with interchangeable 'tiles' (e.g., saturation, stereo widening) allows flexible, non-linear processing. This approach streamlines workflow by consolidating multiple effects into one interface, reducing…
Use utility plugins for flexible volume automation
Problem: volume automation becomes inflexible later in the process
Using a dedicated utility plugin for volume automation provides greater control over the final level of automated elements. This is crucial when introducing new sounds that need precise balancing within the mix. The…
Automate EQ Eight with Endless Smile for dynamic build-ups
Problem: Flat, static transitions
Using the Endless Smile plugin with EQ Eight automation creates rising tension effects. This technique is demonstrated during the build-up to the second drop, where low-cut automation and intensity modulation enhance the…
Use Pitch Monk to deepen vocals without altering pitch
Problem: vocals lack depth or presence
The free Pitch Monk plugin allows vocal performances to be made deeper by shifting formants without changing the pitch. This is useful for creating vocal textures that sit better in the mix or add character to choruses.
Mistake: Assuming all plugins are available in the Producer Edition
Problem: unavailable plugins in lower editions
Many producers assume that all plugins are included in the FL Studio Producer Edition, but in reality, some advanced tools like the new Mastering Limiter are only available in the All Plugins Bundle. This can be a common…
Mistake: Not considering the cost of the All Plugins Bundle
Problem: unexpected cost of advanced plugins
Producers may not consider the significant cost increase of the All Plugins Bundle, which can be over 270 pounds more than the Producer Edition. This can be a financial burden, especially for those who are not ready to…
Mindset: Value the importance of free updates and cost-effective tools
Problem: overpaying for features
It's important to value the cost-effective nature of FL Studio and its lifetime free updates. Producers should be mindful of how new features and plugins are introduced, ensuring that they are accessible without…
Mistake: Assuming the All Plugins Bundle includes future plugins
Problem: unrealistic expectations about plugin inclusion
A common mistake is assuming that the All Plugins Bundle includes all future plugins. However, the bundle does not guarantee access to new plugins released after purchase. This can lead to disappointment when new tools…
Mistake: Not considering the FL Studio Cloud subscription model
Problem: unaware of FL Studio Cloud costs
Producers may not consider the FL Studio Cloud subscription model, which offers access to additional plugins and AI features but requires a monthly or yearly fee. This can be an overlooked cost when trying to access…
Mindset: Be open to feedback and community discussion
Problem: closed-mindedness to feedback
Producers should be open to feedback and community discussion when it comes to mastering tools and plugin availability. Engaging with the community can provide valuable insights and help shape the future of DAWs and…
Don't dismiss digital emulations of hardware
Problem: producer feels limited by not having real hardware
Digital emulations of hardware can sound better than the original hardware in some cases. They are a cost-effective alternative to real hardware and can provide high-quality results. Many professional producers use these…
Explore and experiment with different plugins and settings
Problem: producer is hesitant to try new plugins
Don't be afraid to try different plugins and settings to find what works best for your mix. Experimentation is key to discovering new sounds and techniques. This approach helps producers develop their own style and…
Use EQP1A with no knobs turned for subtle warmth
Problem: mix lacks warmth and character
Even with no knobs turned, the EQP1A plugin can add subtle warmth and character to a track. This is a great option for producers who don't have access to high-end tape or console emulation plugins. It's a simple and…
Use snap back layering with MIDI out for instant effects
Problem: limited layering options
The snap back instant layering effect in ShaperBox includes a MIDI out feature, enabling seamless layering of sounds. This allows producers to trigger additional layers or effects in real time, enhancing the complexity…
Automate chord ducking with sidechain plugins
Problem: Chords not syncing with the beat
Using a plugin like Kickstart2 to automate ducking on chords during kick/snare hits ensures rhythmic clarity and prevents frequency clashes. This is a time-saving alternative to manual automation.