Use a second mic to fill in gaps during aggressive processing
Problem: loss of detail during aggressive processing
When applying aggressive processing like heavy multi-band compression or EQ, having a second mic (such as a ribbon) can help fill in any gaps or loss of detail that might occur. This technique ensures that the overall…
Use the ribbon mic as a backup for full-bodied sound during processing
Problem: loss of vocal body during aggressive processing
When processing a vocal track aggressively, the ribbon mic can act as a backup to maintain the full-bodied sound of the vocal. This is especially useful when using EQ or multi-band compression that might remove some of…
Be specific with small details in processing
Problem: bass lacks polish and refinement
Focusing on small details in processing, such as filter type, resonance, and drive, can significantly improve the overall sound of the bass. These small changes may seem minor, but they contribute to a more polished and…
Mistake: Over-relying on AI vocal processing
Problem: over-reliance on AI
AI tools can make vocals sound artificial if used excessively. Producers often forget that subtlety is key — the goal is enhancement, not transformation. This is especially problematic in genres like trance where vocal…
Use AI tools like Audemy to modify vocals
Problem: bland or generic vocals
AI vocal processors can alter timbre, pitch, and texture for creative effects. This is useful for making vocals stand out or adding unique character. Overuse can lead to unnatural results, so moderation is key.
Use saturators to shape sample color without over-processing
Problem: samples sound lifeless or overly processed
A good sample can handle heavy saturation (up to 33dB) without losing realism. This allows creative tonal shaping while maintaining the sample's natural character. The key is selecting samples with enough headroom to…
Group and process atmospheres separately for better control
Problem: lack of control over atmosphere layers
Grouping atmosphere layers together allows for more precise processing and control over their overall sound. This is especially useful when applying effects like saturation or EQ to the entire group at once. It helps…
Apply modulation to PD with a filter for dynamic bass shaping
Problem: static or muddy bass frequencies
Modulating the PD (likely a plugin like a filter or modulator) with a filter adds movement and texture to the bass. This technique introduces subtle frequency shifts over time, preventing the bass from sounding static.…
Bounce audio to finalize processing and simplify the session
Problem: complex session with multiple plugins and automation
Bouncing audio is a key step in finalizing the processing of a track. It converts all the plugins, automation, and effects into a single audio file, which simplifies the session and makes it easier to work with during…
Add OTT to claps for rhythmic interest
Problem: claps feel static, lack movement
Applying OTT (likely a modulation plugin) to claps adds movement and avoids monotony. This technique is common in trance to keep percussion elements dynamic. The OTT might introduce subtle pitch modulation or vibrato,…
Prioritize proper vocal processing for quality results
Problem: poor vocal clarity despite effects
Even with advanced effects like vocoder and gating, vocals must be properly mixed and processed using a dedicated vocal chain. This includes EQ, compression, and reverb tailored to the vocal's frequency range and…
Use a Skippy Loop for rhythmic, glitchy effects
Problem: bland, predictable rhythmic patterns
Calvin uses a Skippy Loop plugin to create rhythmic, glitchy effects on his hi-hats and percussion. The plugin's settings are adjusted to create a stuttering, fragmented sound that adds energy to the track. This…
Use OTT multi-band dynamics before compressor
OTT (a multi-band dynamics plugin) is used before the compressor on the bass track to shape the sound. This adds punch and intensity, which can be balanced by adjusting the mid and high bands. It helps the bass sit…
Freeze and flatten tracks for easier processing
Problem: high CPU usage from complex plugins
Ethan freezes and flattens tracks to simplify processing and reduce CPU load. This technique is useful during the mixing stage when working with complex arrangements or heavy plugins. Freezing converts audio to a static…
Group layered sounds for easier processing
Problem: inefficient processing of layered sounds
When layering multiple sounds, grouping them together in your DAW allows you to apply effects or processing to all of them at once. This is efficient and ensures that the layered sounds remain cohesive. This technique is…
Use overdrive to add warmth and character to mid-range layers
Problem: thin or lifeless mid-range
Applying a small amount of overdrive to mid-range layers can add warmth and character to the sound. This is especially useful for sounds like steel drums or palm guitar, which can benefit from a subtle amount of…
Use band split for frequency-specific time-stretching
Problem: overly extreme time-stretching effects
Restricting HalfTime's effect to specific frequency ranges via band split allows precise control over time-stretching artifacts. This technique lets producers apply slowed-down effects only to lows/mids or highs,…
HalfTime re-pitching trick (Beatles-inspired)
Problem: limited sound variation, sterile timbres
Pitching a sound up an octave then half-timeing it back down creates a unique re-pitching effect. This technique replicates the vintage tape-speed manipulation used by the Beatles, producing a distinctive timbral shift…