Most people use basic volume automation to make the dynamics of the lead vocal consistent (the best way to do this is with a physical fader, using a control surface like the PreSonus Faderport)īut I propose an alternative – gain automation. Mutt Lange (AC/DC, Def Leppard, Lady Gaga, Muse, Shania Twain) has been known to spend a whole day just riding one vocal part. Check out Hardcore Music Studio for more advice on mixing hardcore music.ĭetailed automation can take some time, but it’s time well spent. Hardcore/Metal: Heavy compression (several rounds of 6-10dB gain reduction can be warranted) to make the vocals sound aggressive.Avoid obvious processing and leave the dynamics mostly intact. Jazz: Approach with subtlety and taste.Vocals can sit a bit further back in the mix. Rock: Less top-end, more body, and high mids.(Though the most mainstream of Hip Hop often has top-end shimmer more akin to Pop). More presence and aggression in the upper mids. Hip Hop: Similar to Pop, but with fewer effects and less top-end.Lots of top-end shimmer, noticeable effects, and highly consistent dynamics are the norm. In general, heavy processing is acceptable and often required. Pop, R’n’B, Electronic: These styles share similar traits.

Here are some basic vocal mixing guidelines to get you started: It’s important that you consider the style and vibe of the track before you apply compression. For some genres, though, you may only need to do one or the other. In most cases, the genre will require you do both of these things.

To shape and enhance the tone of the vocal.

You may be wondering, then, “why is compression so important on a lead vocal?” There are two different types of volume automation, which you will learn about soon. It takes time, but it’s a requirement if you want your vocals to sound professional. I wanted you to read that twice so you really take it in. You do this with automation, NOT compression. It might seem like this would sound unnatural, but it doesn’t. Modern standards of professional production require crazy levels of perfection and consistency in the vocal. Every word should be clearly audible, and every word should be a similar volume. They need to sit on top of the mix at all times. One of your aims when mixing vocals is to make them as dynamically consistent as possible. Let’s look at the anatomy of a compressor: It’s also important to have an understanding of how a compressor works. As with any mixing process, you should have a purpose behind every plugin and decision. It’s important to have an understanding of what you are trying to achieve with compression.

Garageband plugins for vocals free