November 29, 2023
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Keinemusik, an innovative music-creator collective from Berlin, represents a distinctive movement in the electronic music scene. The group's name, which translates to "no music" in German, embodies...
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The music world is buzzing with anticipation as Kanye West, now known as Ye, and Ty Dolla $ign are set to release their joint album, a project enveloped in both excitement and controversy...
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There is no question that technology and the internet is changing the way in which many aspects of the world operate. The internet has rapidly accelerated the rate that information can be...
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People often say that music is a universal language. It is one of those things that all humans understand and enjoy, and it has an incredible ability to bring people together and create a sense...
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In a testament to the global nature of the music industry, Chaz Mishan, renowned producer and composer based in Los Angeles, has joined forces with YG Entertainment's talented songwriters...
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BABYMONSTER emerged from YG Entertainment’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in the music industry. Known for its ability to cultivate global sensations such as BLACKPINK and BIGBANG...
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The thrash metal genre emerged in the early 1980s. Characterized by intricate guitar use, lightning-fast tempos, and its overall bold, aggressive themes, thrash was groundbreaking and quickly became..
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Travis Scott, the Houston-born hip-hop sensation, has taken the world by storm with his innovative soundscapes and boundary-pushing creativity. His latest single, "Telekinesis”...
Read moreIn modern music production, one of the most common challenges is the clash of frequencies between instruments. For example, bass guitars and drum kits often compete for space in the lower end of the frequency spectrum, leading to a muddy mix. Traditional sidechain compression is a popular solution, but it typically reduces the entire sound of one instrument rather than targeting the specific frequency causing the issue. This is where multiband compression sidechaining comes into play.
Instruments like bass guitars and kick drums occupy similar frequency ranges, particularly in the low end (usually between 40Hz and 150Hz). When these elements overlap, it can result in a lack of clarity. Traditional sidechain compression helps by lowering the volume of one sound when the other is present, but it affects the entire frequency range of the instrument. Multiband compression allows for more precision by only affecting the clashing frequencies.
Multiband compression sidechaining gives you the flexibility to address frequency-specific issues while leaving the rest of the instrument untouched. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply it in your mix:
An excellent example of an artist using multiband compression sidechaining effectively is Skrillex. In his genre of electronic dance music, where bass and drums are central to the mix, frequency clashes can easily occur. Skrillex often layers multiple bass sounds, and through the use of multiband compression sidechaining, he ensures that these layers complement rather than compete with his drums. By carefully isolating and controlling specific frequency bands, he maintains both the punch of his drums and the power of his bass without compromising either.
The benefit of using multiband compression sidechaining is its precision. Rather than reducing the entire volume of an instrument, it only affects the problematic frequency bands. This approach ensures that other important characteristics of the instrument remain intact, resulting in a cleaner, more defined mix.
Multiband compression sidechaining is an essential tool for producers looking to achieve a more balanced mix. By focusing on specific frequency bands rather than the entire instrument, you can prevent clashes and maintain clarity. Famous producers like Skrillex rely on this technique to keep their mixes clean and impactful. Incorporating this method into your own production workflow can elevate the quality of your mixes, ensuring that each element stands out clearly while still fitting together cohesively.