Sidechain compression is an effective mixing technique that will help you control the instruments competing with your vocals. These clashing frequencies affect the clarity, punch, and presence of your vocals. Instruments like synths, guitars, strings, and drums often have frequencies that interfere with vocals. Load Ableton Live’s Compressor on a Synth Track Note: You can use this exact sidechaining technique to reduce masking and clashing frequencies between any two sounds. This technique will make the vocals sound more present in the mix. You’ll learn how to use a sidechain compressor to make space for vocals being masked by a synth sound. This guide takes you through the steps of setting up sidechain compression using Ableton Live‘s Compressor device. This technique gives the kick drum space to cut through the mix. Sidechain compression creates separation by quickly reducing the volume of the bass when the kick drum plays. Creating space for important elements in the mix will improve clarity, presence, and punch.įor example, use a sidechain compressor to control competing low frequencies between the kick and bass. Sidechain compression is an essential mixing technique that creates groove and separation between two sounds. The most common use of sidechaining in electronic music and pop music is sidechain compression. How to Sidechain in Ableton Live Using a Sidechain Compressor
