
Sidechaining has a number of different uses, so today we’ll explore just a few of its most common applications. Therefore, providing a pulsating, and rhythmic dynamic to the sound. Allowing the kicks to dominate the mix without clashing with the sound of the bass and creating a muddy signal. Therefore, both sounds can keep cutting through the mix. So, when your kick drum sounds, your bass becomes more compressed. For example, the compression level of your bass track may be controlled by the volume of your kick drum. It works to control the level of a particular sound, relative to other sounds within your mix. Sidechain compression differs slightly from compression. While a higher knee placed on vocals can make your voice sound smoother and more natural.įurthermore, using a multiband compressor can isolate multiple frequencies and compress them, while leaving other frequencies alone. Using a low knee on instruments like drums and guitar generally sounds better. The Knee determines the onset of your compression. While the Release parameter will determine how quickly it shuts off. Using the attack parameter on your compression allows you to determine how quickly the compressor engages. PeakĪdjusting the peak parameter determines how your compressor perceives the loudness of the sound.


It’s worth experimenting to find the ratio that works best for your sound. Therefore, the higher the ratio, the harder the compressor will work. While at a ratio of 10:1, the sound will be reduced by 1.8dB. Therefore, at a ratio of 2:1, any sound 2dB above the threshold will be reduced by 1dB. The ratio determines the intensity of compression for sounds sitting above the threshold. While leaving sounds sitting lower than this level alone. Setting the threshold means that any sounds on the track louder than this will be reduced according to the ratio. Perhaps the most important parameter on your compressor. So, we’ve outlined some of the most common terms to help you out! Parameters on your compressor Threshold So, your instrument will always be heard within the dynamic range you specified.Įven after reading this, you might still be a bit confused when you’re staring blankly at a compressor on your FL Studio project. Resulting in every note played too quietly to be boosted into your volume range, and every note too loud to be softened to fit the range. Then, you’ll set a compression level to determine how sensitive your effect will be. Using a compressor on your FL Studio audio track starts by picking a volume level you always want your instrument to sound at (never louder, never softer).

Resulting in a much cleaner, and more enjoyable mix. So you can boost the overall level of a track while narrowing the dynamic range. It’s a dynamic processing tool that’s used to keep your audio signal within a specific dynamic/volume range.Įssentially, compressors are useful for making your loud sounds softer.

Compression originated in the early days of recording with the goal of maintaining a consistent output from vocalists.
BASSLINE FL STUDIO HOW TO
To understand Sidechaining and Sidechain Compression in FL Studio, we must first cover the basics of Compression, and how to use a compressor. Sidechain in FL Studio using Automation Clips.Sidechain in FL Studio using Fruity Limiter.As well as a step by step guide on how to sidechain within FL Studio! In this article, we explain everything you need to know in terms of compression and sidechain. This is because the producer has utilized sidechain compression in order to “duck” the clashing low-end frequencies on the bassline whenever the kick You’ll notice that even though they have hard-hitting and catchy bassline synths, the kick drums always shine through and punch on every beat. If you’re still a bit confused, think of your favourite dance music tracks. In laymen terms, sidechain helps your leading elements stand out while ducking the volume of other sounds that get played at the same time. Sidechaining works a little bit differently, by making sure a particular sound is compressed, relative to other sounds or channels in your mix. Generally speaking, most compressors work on their own and focus on controlling the output of a single channel in your mix. So no matter what genre of music you listen to, your favourite songs are sure to use some sort of compression.
BASSLINE FL STUDIO PROFESSIONAL
Compression is one of the most popular tools used in professional audio recording, producing, and performances. If you’re just getting started with music production in FL Studio, chances are you’ve heard the term sidechain or sidechain compression thrown around.
