Audio Compression Basics | Universal Audio

Audio Compression Basics | Universal Audio

Compressors and limiters are used to reduce dynamic range — the span between the softest and loudest sounds. Using compression can make your tracks sound more polished by controlling maximum levels and maintaining higher average loudness. Here are some compression basics, different compression types, and some tips to try on your tracks.

Mason Hicks does an excellent job of describing compression, compressors, and why do it at all.

Note that the stock compressor in Logic Pro X can be used for each of the compressor types — tube, optical, FET, and VCA. The “Platinum” compressor in Logic is really none of the types listed, maybe more like a Distressor?

Mixing in Stereo: Adding Width and Depth to Your Recordings | Universal Audio

Mixing in Stereo: Adding Width and Depth to Your Recordings | Universal Audio

When it comes to discussing the fine art of mixing music, I tend to approach the subject with some trepidation. After all, compared to many of the topics I’ve written about, this one is rife with subjectivity — one person’s idea of a great sounding mix may be another’s sonic nightmare. And what works for one genre of music will be decidedly wrong for another.But all those variables aside, there are at least a few general theories, tips, and tricks that apply to most mix projects. So while the idea here is not to give a step-by-step tutorial on two-track mixing, hopefully we can cover at least a few concepts that are useful for everyone.

Daniel Keller’s mixing techniques. The images showing mic placement have decent starting points. The loudness contour frequency chart is especially useful.

Consider this panning of instruments as a preset…

Blog studio basics mixing stereo feat 1 2x

Ready, Set, Mix! Tips for Prepping Your Mixing Session | Universal Audio

Ready, Set, Mix! Tips for Prepping Your Mixing Session | Universal Audio

It’s time to mix, so let’s start to move some faders! Well, maybe not right away. If we really want a mix to go quickly and smoothly, there’s some preparation that needs to be done beforehand. Although many great mixers aren’t conscious about exactly how they’re going about prepping for a mix, they all cover basically the same areas: technical prep, session prep, and personal prep. Let’s take a look at each.

Excellent advice from Bobby Owsinksi.

Toggle Track Solo — Logic Pro X keyboard command of the day

Logic Pro X keyboard command of the day. #LogicProX @StudioIntern1

  Toggle Track Solo

Toggles the Solo state of the selected track(s) on and off.

Solo tracks — Logic Pro X

You can solo a track, silencing all tracks that are not also soloed. Soloing tracks is useful when you want to work on a track individually, or work on a few tracks, without hearing the other tracks in the project.

⇧ SHIFT – ⌃ CONTROL – ⌥ OPTION – ⌘ COMMAND