Crest Factor Explained: How Much Compression Your Track Actually Needs

You’ve sat in front of a compressor plugin for 20 minutes, nudging the threshold, second-guessing the ratio, and trying to decide if 4 dB of gain reduction is “too much” on your vocal. You’re not alone. Most producers have been there. But there’s one number sitting in plain sight on your peak meter that answers … Read more

Michael Brauer Multibus Compression (ABCD Method Explained)

michael brauer multibus compression (abcd)

Michael Brauer’s multibus compression uses four separate buses (A–D), each with its own compressor and tone. You send different groups (drums, strings, guitars, vocals) to each bus. This gives you control over tone and dynamics in each group, so nothing fights for space.  This type of bus compression adds energy, color, and polish without squashing the whole mix.What … Read more

Andrew Scheps Mix Bus Chain (Step by Step Breakdown)

Andrew Scheps Mix Bus Chain

Andrew Scheps has a strange but effective trick. He glues and shapes his entire mix without using compression. Instead of squashing the sound, he lets it breathe. This mix bus chain keeps the energy alive, makes the chorus hit harder, and gives the mix a nice lift in both width and tone.  It works with any genre and … Read more

Jaycen Joshua Trueverb Trick: Depth Panner

Jaycen Joshua Waves Trueverb Trick (Front to Back Panner)

Jaycen Joshua’s Waves Trueverb trick is a smart way to add depth using reverb, but not the usual way.  Instead of creating a wash of space, it helps you place sounds exactly where you want them – front or back – without losing punch. You get cleaner mixes and more control. No need to automate volume or EQ. … Read more

Andrew Scheps Vocal Trick: Parallel Compression

Andrew Scheps Vocal Mixing Trick

Andrew Scheps is a legendary audio engineer known for his work with artists like Adele, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Jay-Z.His mixing style is recognized for its clarity, depth, and unique character. Among his many techniques, one that stands out is his vocal mixing trick.It allows vocals to cut through even the densest mixes without sounding … Read more

Brauer Parallel Vocal Compression: Step by Step

Michael Brauer’s approach to vocal mixing relies on compressors not just for dynamic control but as tone-shaping tools.Instead of using EQ to sculpt the vocal, he prefers to let different compressors emphasize certain tonal characteristics – adding warmth, excitement, depth, and presence.Michael Brauer’s parallel vocal compression technique involves sending the vocal to multiple aux tracks, … Read more

Michael Brauer Vocal Chain (Step by Step Settings Guide)

michael brauer vocal chain

The Michael Brauer vocal chain is a renowned mixing technique that aims to enhance the clarity, warmth, and presence of vocals within a mix.Implementing this chain allows engineers to enhance the vocal performance, making it more prominent and emotionally resonant with the listener.The goal is simple: to create a vocal sound that is both powerful … Read more

Jaycen Joshua Low-End Mixing Secrets (Step by Step)

In my previous post, I shared the complete vocal chain that Jaycen uses to get those crisp and punchy vocals.Today, I’m breaking down three of Jaycen Joshua’s low-end mixing secrets. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your kick and bass (or 808) work together seamlessly, you’re in the right place.The Secrets, Step by Step … Read more

Jaycen Joshua Vocal Chain (Step by Step Plugin Settings)

jaycen joshua vocal chain

Jaycen is renowned for his impeccable mixes. Jaycen Joshua’s vocal chain incorporates some of the most powerful tools and techniques in modern audio production. If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that industry-standard vocal sound, you’re at the right place. This step-by-step guide will show you how to replicate his chain and understand the choices behind each plugin.The … Read more

Best Vocal Chain Order (Blueprint for Clarity and Punch)

Best Vocal Chain Order

Understanding how to organize the elements in your vocal processing is crucial for achieving a professional sound. The way you arrange the different parts of your vocal chain has a big impact on how your voice sounds in the final mix. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of vocal chain order. We’ll explore why it matters … Read more