If you’re a music producer, you probably know that sidechaining is a crucial technique for creating a clean and polished mix. Sidechaining allows you to make certain elements of your track stand out, such as the kick and 808, without sacrificing the overall balance of the mix. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to sidechain your kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X, one of the most popular DAWs for electronic music production.
To start, let’s briefly go over what the 808 and kick are. The 808 is a popular bass drum sound that’s been used in electronic music for decades. It’s known for its deep, booming sound and is often used in genres like trap, hip-hop, and EDM. The kick, on the other hand, is a more traditional bass drum sound that’s used in a wide variety of genres. When these two sounds are played together, they can create a muddy and cluttered mix, which is where sidechaining comes in.
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to sidechain your kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X. We’ll cover everything from setting up your tracks and routing, to adjusting the compressor settings to achieve the desired effect. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, this tutorial will help you take your mixes to the next level. So let’s dive in!
Understanding the Basics
If you want to create a professional-sounding mix, you need to understand the basics of sidechain compression. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started with sidechaining 808 and kick in Logic Pro X.
Compression and Sidechain Basics
Before we dive into the specifics of sidechain compression, let’s first talk about what compression is. Compression is a mixing technique that reduces the dynamic range of a track. This means that the quieter parts of the track are boosted, while the louder parts are reduced in volume.
Sidechaining is a specific type of compression that allows you to create a “pumping” effect in your mix. This effect is commonly used in electronic dance music (EDM) to create a rhythmic feel.
Sidechain compression works by using a separate source, such as a kick drum, to “trigger” the compressor on another track, such as an 808 bass. When the kick drum plays, it reduces the volume of the 808 bass, creating the “pumping” effect.
Understanding Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release
Now that we understand the basics of sidechain compression, let’s talk about the specific settings you need to adjust to get the effect you want.
Threshold: The threshold determines the level at which the compressor starts to work. If the signal on the track falls below the threshold, the compressor will not kick in.
Ratio: The ratio determines how much the compressor reduces the volume of the track. A higher ratio means more compression.
Attack: The attack determines how quickly the compressor kicks in. A shorter attack time means the compressor will start working faster.
Release: The release determines how quickly the compressor stops working. A shorter release time means the compressor will stop working faster.
When sidechaining 808 and kick in Logic Pro X, you’ll need to adjust these settings to get the effect you want. Start with a low ratio and a long attack time. Then, adjust the threshold and release until you get the desired “pumping” effect.
By understanding the basics of compression and sidechain compression, and how to adjust the specific settings, you’ll be able to create professional-sounding mixes that stand out.
Setting Up Your Tracks
Before you start sidechaining your 808 and kick in Logic Pro X, it’s important to set up your tracks properly. This will ensure that your sidechain compression works correctly and that your mix sounds balanced.
Setting Up 808 and Kick Tracks
First, create two tracks in Logic Pro X: one for your 808 and one for your kick. Make sure that both tracks are in the same key and tempo as your project. This will help your sidechain compression sound more natural.
Next, assign your 808 to its own channel strip and your kick to its own channel strip. This will allow you to adjust the volume and EQ of each track separately.
Input and Settings in Logic Pro X
Once you’ve created your tracks, it’s time to set up your input and settings in Logic Pro X. Here’s how:
- Select your kick track and go to the Mixer window.
- Click on the “I/O” button at the bottom of the window to open the Input/Output section.
- In the Input/Output section, select “Bus 1” as the output for your kick track. This will send the audio from your kick track to Bus 1.
- Repeat the same steps for your 808 track, selecting “Bus 2” as the output.
Now that you’ve set up your input, it’s time to adjust your settings. Here’s what you need to do:
- Select your kick track and go to the Channel Strip section.
- Click on the “Compressor” plugin to add it to your kick track.
- In the Compressor plugin, select “Bus 2” as the sidechain input.
- Adjust the threshold and ratio settings to your liking. This will determine how much the 808 is compressed when the kick hits.
- Repeat the same steps for your 808 track, selecting “Bus 1” as the sidechain input.
With your tracks set up and your input and settings adjusted, you’re ready to start sidechaining your 808 and kick in Logic Pro X.
Applying Sidechain Compression
Sidechain compression is a popular technique used in music production to create more space in a mix. This technique allows the kick and 808 to work together without clashing, making the low-end of a track sound more cohesive. Here’s how you can apply sidechain compression in Logic Pro X.
Setting the Compressor
The first step is to insert a compressor on the 808 track. In Logic Pro X, you can use the stock compressor plugin or any third-party compressor plugin. Once you have inserted the compressor, select the kick track as the sidechain input.
Adjusting Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release
The next step is to adjust the compressor settings to achieve the desired effect. Start by adjusting the threshold to determine how much of the kick’s volume triggers the compressor. Then, adjust the ratio to determine how much the 808’s volume is reduced when the kick hits.
The attack and release settings determine how quickly the compressor responds to the kick. A fast attack time will make the 808 duck quickly, while a slower attack time will create a more gradual effect. Similarly, a fast release time will make the 808 return to its original volume quickly, while a slower release time will create a more natural-sounding effect.
Dynamic Technique of Sidechaining
Sidechain compression can also be used dynamically to create interesting effects. For example, you can use a rhythmic pattern on the kick track to create a pumping effect on the 808. To achieve this, you can adjust the attack and release settings to create a more exaggerated effect.
sidechain compression is a powerful technique that can help you create a more professional-sounding mix. By adjusting the compressor settings and using dynamic techniques, you can create a unique sound that sets your music apart.
Fine-Tuning the Mix
When it comes to mixing 808 and kick drums, fine-tuning is essential to achieve a balanced and cohesive sound. In this section, we’ll explore some techniques to help you perfect your mix.
Ducking and Depth
One of the most effective ways to make room for the kick drum is to use sidechain compression. By setting up a compressor on the 808 track and triggering it with the kick drum, you can create a “ducking” effect that lowers the volume of the 808 every time the kick hits. This technique helps the kick drum cut through the mix without losing the low-end of the 808.
Another way to create depth in the mix is by using reverb. Adding reverb to the 808 can help it sit further back in the mix, while keeping the kick drum up front. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much reverb can muddy up the low end.
Balancing Bass and Kick Drum
Finding the right balance between the bass and kick drum is crucial for a powerful and punchy mix. One way to achieve this is by using EQ to carve out space for each element. Try boosting the kick drum’s low-end frequencies and cutting those same frequencies on the 808. This will help the kick drum stand out without overpowering the 808.
Another technique is to use volume automation to adjust the levels of the bass and kick drum throughout the track. For example, you might want to turn up the kick drum during the chorus to give it more impact, or turn down the bass during a breakdown to create more space.
Adjusting EQ and Sustain
EQ is a powerful tool for shaping the sound of your 808 and kick drum. Experiment with boosting or cutting different frequencies to find the sweet spot for each element. For example, you might want to boost the attack of the kick drum to make it more punchy, or cut the sustain of the 808 to make it tighter.
Finally, adjusting the sustain of the 808 can help it sit better in the mix. Too much sustain can make the 808 sound boomy and overpowering, while too little can make it sound weak and thin. Try adjusting the sustain to find the right balance between power and clarity.
By fine-tuning your mix using these techniques, you can achieve a powerful and cohesive sound that balances the bass and kick drum perfectly.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
If you’re looking to take your sidechaining game to the next level, here are some advanced techniques and tips to explore.
Exploring Plugins
While Logic Pro comes with a stock compressor that can be used for sidechaining, there are also third-party plugins that can offer more control and flexibility. Some popular options include:
- FabFilter Pro-C2
- Waves SSL G-Master Buss Compressor
- iZotope Neutron 3
These plugins allow you to fine-tune the sidechain settings, adjust the frequency range, and shape the envelope of the sidechain signal. Experimenting with different plugins can help you find the perfect sound for your mix.
Automation and Delay Techniques
In addition to using a compressor for sidechaining, you can also use automation and delay techniques to achieve a similar effect. For example, you can automate the volume of the bass track to duck whenever the kick drum hits. Or, you can use a delay effect on the bass track to create a rhythmic pulse that complements the kick drum.
Using Stock Compressor in Logic Pro
If you’re working with Logic Pro, you can use the stock compressor to sidechain your 808 and kick. Here’s how:
- Insert the compressor on the bass track.
- Click on the sidechain button to activate it.
- Choose the kick drum track as the sidechain source.
- Adjust the threshold, ratio, attack, and release settings to your liking.
- Use the gain reduction meter to monitor the amount of compression.
Remember to adjust the settings based on the tempo and rhythm of your mix. You can also experiment with different compression styles, such as opto, FET, or VCA, to achieve different sounds.
By exploring these advanced techniques and tips, you can take your sidechaining skills to the next level and create more dynamic and impactful mixes.
Common Issues and Solutions
Addressing Masking and Volume Issues
One common issue when sidechaining 808 and kick in Logic Pro X is masking. This happens when the 808 and kick occupy the same frequency range and clash with each other, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. To solve this issue, you can use EQ to carve out some space in the frequency range of the 808, allowing the kick to cut through the mix. You can also use volume automation to lower the volume of the 808 when the kick hits.
Another issue that can occur is volume imbalance. The kick may be too loud or too soft compared to the 808, making it difficult to achieve a balanced mix. To solve this issue, you can use a gain plugin or the fader in Logic Pro X to adjust the volume levels of the kick and 808. You can also use compression to even out the volume levels and add sustain to the kick.
Achieving Clarity and Pumping Effect
To achieve clarity in the low-end, you can use a high-pass filter on the 808 to remove any unnecessary frequencies that may be causing muddiness. You can also use sidechain compression to duck the 808 when the kick hits, creating more space and clarity in the mix.
To achieve a pumping effect, you can use a fast attack and release time on the compressor to create a quick and noticeable dip in the volume of the 808 when the kick hits. You can also adjust the threshold to control the amount of compression applied and the ratio to adjust the intensity of the pumping effect.
When sidechaining 808 and kick in Logic Pro X, it’s important to experiment with different techniques and settings to find what works best for your mix. By addressing masking and volume issues and achieving clarity and a pumping effect, you can create a professional and impactful sound.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking to learn more about sidechaining your kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X, there are a variety of resources available online. Here are a few places you can check out:
Tutorials and Guides
If you prefer to learn through step-by-step tutorials and guides, there are several great resources available online. Here are a few that we recommend:
- How to Sidechain Kicks & 808s in Logic Pro X | Mixing Tutorial: This video tutorial by Mixing With Mike is a great place to start if you’re new to sidechaining in Logic Pro X.
- How To Sidechain Kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X: This tutorial by Charles Cleyn is another great resource for learning how to sidechain your kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X.
Online Discussions and Subreddits
If you’re looking to connect with other Logic Pro X users and get advice and feedback on your sidechaining techniques, there are several online communities you can check out. Here are a few that we recommend:
- r/Logic_Studio: This subreddit is a great place to connect with other Logic Pro X users and get advice and feedback on your sidechaining techniques.
- Logic Pro Help: This online forum is another great resource for connecting with other Logic Pro X users and getting advice and feedback on your sidechaining techniques.
there are plenty of resources available online for learning how to sidechain your kicks and 808s in Logic Pro X. Whether you prefer step-by-step tutorials or online communities where you can connect with other users, there’s something out there for everyone.
