A few elements are as crucial as a standout lead vocal when mixing. A well-compressed vocal can elevate a track, giving it the polish and presence it needs to stand out in a mix. However, achieving the perfect vocal compression is both an art and a science that takes years of practice to master. In […]
Using the best vocal mixing plugins can make all the difference between an amateur and a professional-sounding track when mixing vocals. Waves plugins are a go-to for mixing engineers worldwide, and they are known for their intuitive design, exceptional sound quality, and versatility. Waves vocal plugins are trusted by top-tier mixing engineers like Chris Lord-Alge, […]
Having the right tools is essential when it comes to vocal mixing. The process usually involves an EQ, compressor, saturator, delay, and reverb. Waves is one of the most respected names in the audio plugin industry, known for delivering high-quality, user-friendly plugins that can improve any vocal track. However, with a vast selection of plugins, […]
At their core, both EQ (equalization) and dynamics processors share a common goal: to control and adjust the audio output to achieve the desired sound. EQs target specific frequency ranges, applying cuts or boosts to shape the sound. Dynamics processors, including compressors, limiters, and gates, manage the volume of an audio signal, either reducing peaks […]
Saturation is a powerful tool in audio production, particularly in vocal mixing. It can add warmth, depth, and character to vocals, making them stand out in a mix. In this article, we’ll delve into the best saturation VST plugins for vocal mixing and how they can enhance your tracks. Understanding Saturation First, let’s quickly explain […]
Sibilance describes the sharp, hissy noises produced when a vocalist articulates consonants such as “s,” “z,” “sh,” “ch,” and “t.” These high-frequency sounds can become overwhelmingly prominent and distracting in a recording, mainly if the singer tends to sibilance or if the recording equipment, like microphones and preamps, accentuates these frequencies. When left unchecked, excessive […]
As an audio engineer who’s relied heavily on Antares’ suite of tools, the announcement of their latest plugin, the Vocal De-Esser, has me genuinely intrigued. Known for their pioneering Auto-Tune technology, Antares has now stepped into the realm of AI-powered vocal processing with a de-esser designed to smooth out harsh sibilant sounds without compromising the […]
When it comes to adding analog warmth and saturation when mixing, Soundtoys’ Decapitator stands out as a top choice. This versatile plugin is more than just an effect; it’s designed to be inserted on every mixer channel, much like Slate Digital’s Virtual Console Collection or Sonnox Inflator, offering a level of analog authenticity that’s hard […]
The Teletronix LA-2A compressor is a legend in the music industry, known for its warm, smooth sound that has graced countless recordings over the decades. With its unique tube-driven electro-optical attenuator system that allows instantaneous gain reduction with no increase in harmonic distortion, the LA-2A levels audio signals like no other compressor ever made. Teletronix […]
Aiming for clarity and separation in a mix is a constant pursuit. One of the most effective audio mixing techniques I often use is “match EQ” and “inverse EQ”. These methods have revolutionized how I approach frequency management, helping me carve out distinct spaces for each element in a mix. In this article, I’ll guide […]