Chapter 6: Advanced Production Techniques

Using Sidechain Compression Effectively

Sidechain compression is a powerful production technique commonly used in electronic music, especially in genres such as Deep Wave that blend Synthwave and Deep House elements. This chapter will explore the fundamentals of sidechain compression, its applications, and how to use it effectively to enhance your tracks.

1. Understanding Sidechain Compression

a. Definition

  • Sidechain Compression: A dynamic processing technique where the output of one audio signal (the sidechain input) controls the compression of another audio signal. This allows certain elements in a mix to ‘duck’ in volume when another sound plays, creating space and enhancing clarity.

b. Purpose

  • Clearing Space: The primary purpose of sidechain compression is to create space within a mix. It helps avoid frequency clashes, notably between the kick drum and bass, by allowing the kick to cut through the mix while the bass ducks in volume.
  • Creating Movement: Sidechain compression can give a pumping effect that brings energy and a dynamic feel to the track, making it more danceable and engaging.

2. Setting Up Sidechain Compression

a. Basic Setup

  • Choosing the Source: Typically, a kick drum track is used as the sidechain input. This allows the kick to trigger the compression on other tracks (e.g., bass synths, pads) that you want to duck.
  • Applying the Compressor: Insert a compressor on the track you want to be affected (usually the bass or pads). Look for a compressor that allows you to set a sidechain input.

b. Configuring Compressor Settings

  • Threshold: Set a threshold that determines at what level the compression will engage. A lower threshold will result in more noticeable ducking.
  • Ratio: Use a higher ratio (e.g., 4:1 or higher) for a more aggressive compression effect that causes a pronounced ducking effect.
  • Attack and Release Settings:
    • Attack: A fast attack time (1-10 ms) ensures that the compressor responds quickly to the kick drum, allowing for immediate volume reduction on the bass when the kick hits.
    • Release: Set a medium to quick release time (50-200 ms) so that the volume returns to normal relatively quickly, creating a pumping effect that maintains the rhythm.

3. Creative Applications of Sidechain Compression

a. Not Just for Kick and Bass

  • Versatility: While the kick-bass relationship is common, sidechain compression can be used creatively on various elements. Consider applying it to pads, lead synths, or even vocal tracks to maintain clarity in the mix.
  • Pumping Effects: Experiment with sidechain compression on background elements like pads or effects to create a rhythmic pulsing sensation that contributes to the groove without cluttering the forefront of the mix.

b. Sidechaining with Non-Drum Elements

  • Vocals: Try using sidechain compression on vocal tracks against instruments to keep vocal clarity. Sidechain the vocal against the most prominent instruments during the verse.
  • FX Elements: Apply sidechain effects on atmospheric elements to give them movement and create space for melodic phrases, adding to the track’s flow.

4. Advanced Techniques

a. Triggering sidechain from different sources

  • Using Different Triggers: Instead of a kick drum, use other rhythmic elements or even audio tracks (such as snare hits or percussion loops) as the sidechain input. This can create unique rhythmic relationships and a less conventional pumping effect.
  • LFO-based Sidechaining: Some plugins allow for modulation of compression utilizing LFOs for rhythmically dynamic pumping effects that sync to the track’s tempo.

b. Using Visual Feedback

  • Metering: Use visual metering tools to observe how sidechain compression affects your audio levels in real-time. This can guide you in adjusting the settings for the desired compression effects and amounts of ducking.
  • Listen and Adjust: Always trust what you hear. Adjust the attack, release, and threshold to suit the track better, ensuring that the ducking feels musical and fluid rather than mechanical.

5. Practical Exercises

  • Create a Pumping Effect: Set up a simple kick, bass, and pad arrangement, then apply sidechain compression to the bass and pads. Adjust the settings to achieve a pronounced pumping effect with the kick.
  • Experiment with Different Sidechain Sources: Use non-percussive elements (e.g., synth stabs, vocal snippets) as sidechain triggers and observe how they impact the overall groove of your track.
  • Compare Effects: Create multiple variations of the same section with different sidechain settings and sources. Compare how these variations affect the dynamics and feel of the track.

Conclusion

Using sidechain compression effectively is crucial in creating space and enhancing the rhythmic dynamics of your Deep Wave productions. By mastering this technique, you’ll be able to craft tracks that maintain clarity while engaging listeners with rhythmic movement and energy. In the next chapter, we will explore arranging techniques that further enhance the structure and flow of your Deep Wave compositions, ensuring a polished and professional final product.