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Compressor styles

Like classic analogue synthesisers, the world’s most coveted analogue compressors are capable of fetching eye-watering prices on the second-hand market. Fortunately, though, the quality of software emulations of them has improved dramatically in recent years. The reason for analogue compressors being so popular isn’t only down to their ability to control dynamic range but also the non-linearity and distortion they bring to the signals they treat. However, this is where confusion often starts. You might know the names and model numbers of the most coveted analogue compressors of all time, but did you know that they all use different approaches to dynamic range control, resulting in dramatically variable sonic results? There are four main approaches to controlling dynamics in the analogue domain. VCA or ‘voltage controlled amplifier’ compression uses peak detection to control dynamics, so that when signals exceed a chosen threshold, the volume of the peaks is reduced to flatten the ...
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8 Mix Buss Compression, EQ & Saturation Tips

What are the risks and rewards to processing your mix buss (or master channel) during a mix? Get tips on how to become a master of mix buss processing. It’s the secret weapon in every mixing engineer’s arsenal, the secret sauce in every mixer’s collection of recipes. We’re talking about mix buss processing, and in this article we’ll cover what it is, how to use it (Rule One: Don’t abuse it!), and the best way to reap its benefits. We’ll also take a close-up look at a couple of the latest generation of integrated ‘final touch’ mix buss plugins. 1. What Is Mix Buss Processing and Why Use It? In a nutshell, mix buss processing is the application of one or more signal-changing processes (such as compression or EQ) to the stereo buss or master fader. Therefore, by definition, it affects all tracks, not just certain instruments. At first glance, this may appear counterintuitive. After all, the mix stage provides the last opportunity to adjust balances and fix any problems with individual...
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Avoid repetition

When you layer sounds to make them pop more, try using a different combination of layers each time. Keep your lead hit in place - let's say a kick or a snare - but then layer it with a snap, clap, or shaker in a different way every 4 measures or 16 measures. This will give you a more interesting overall mix and lets your mix evolve in more subtle ways than just the lead progression. Layer with loops. Start with a simple 4 bar loop. Duplicate the same loop but add some reverb or other effects to your duplicates. Keep the original present to keep the loop stable, but then layer it with your processed layer to give your loop some personality.
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Sunday select

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Subboom effect

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Take a sub kick. Stretch it by half the tempo, 4 times over. Add a down pitch bend . There's your subboom.  Reverse it to get a low sweep riser type effect. Adjust with filters and eq and fade-ins to your liking. 
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Mastering Chain

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Multiband Compressor: When mixing a track you tend to focuss a bit to much on the mid frequencies. cause that is one of the most difficult areas to mix. When applying a multi band compressor you can gain control over certain frequency bands and create what some people call a "Smiley" frequency curve. By adding gain reduction in the mid frequencies the track sounds more glued which listens more pleasant. Regular Compressor: Just to create a more overall glued effect. Equalizer: Nowadays with equalizers you can easily zoom in to little problem areas and fix them. Distortion: Some people use a bit of distortion on there mastering channel to add a bit of warmth. By using Exciters, Tape saturators, Tubes, Vintage warmers etcetera.. Limiters: Keeping your output levels under control. A Mono maker / Stereo Widener: Some plugins have the option to put all the frequencies below a certain point in M...
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Give Lead sound little extra spice

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Try to put a short hihat on every note of your main melody. This short tick sound will let your melody pop out even more. Instead of a short hihat you can also use white noise. This creates also some extra harmonics on top of your lead. Mix them in very gently. Just hard enough that you miss them when muted. 
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