This step allows you to choose an external source like the vocals as a trigger. For example, to create a trigger by isolating the kick from a mixed drum loop.įor this example, enable the Sidechain button to access the sidechain routing parameters. This option is useful to isolate a frequency range from a loop.

Sidechain EQ: Enable the EQ button to trigger sidechaining by a specific band of frequencies, instead of a sidechain input track.

Here, you can choose an external source track to trigger sidechain compression.

External Sidechain: Enable the Sidechain button in the left section to select Live’s internal sidechain routing parameters.

The sidechain toggle button reveals two sections: External and EQ. Access the Compressor’s Sidechain SectionĪccess the Sidechain parameters by toggling the sidechain button in the title bar.

For simplicity, let’s use a single synth track causing frequency masking issues. You could also group all the instruments with interfering frequencies and apply sidechain compression to the group. Set up a sidechain compressor by first loading Live’s Compressor device on the instrument track clashing with the vocals. 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

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