Month: September 2022

Hope your production journey is going well! ?

?Ableton Vocal Chain?

In this weeks 60 second tip, we have a look at how to create a simple vocal chain using only stock Ableton plugins.

I understand that third party VSTs can get very expensive so I decided to create this video for those that are using stock Ableton plugins. Never underestimate the power of stock plugins!?

Let’s break the video down…

1) EQ8 – I’m using an EQ to clean up the low end a little and reduce room resonance with some surgical cuts. I like to make sure I get a great sounding recording from the get go & subtract more than boost to retain headroom in the mix. ??

2) Compressor – The aim with the first compressor is to slightly control the dynamics. I’m not looking to colour to add character here, it’s just purely for a little control.?

3) 2nd Compressor – Slightly higher ratio for body and character?

Disclaimer⚠️
This vocal was compressed slightly coming in and this is the reason why the attack on my second compressor is the same as the 1st. Usually, I will have a compressor compressing the peaks and another compressing the body resulting in 2 different attack & release settings on each compressor.

4) 2nd EQ8 – Another EQ to add a little presence at 2k. Nothing to magical here. ?

5) Saturation – Ahh, some warmth & addition of new harmonics to end the chain. ?

6) Reverb & Delay – These were on my send & returns. Used just for a little depth and interest.

Now…This is only one chain out of so many that can be used. Every vocal is different meaning it will have to be mixed differently every time. This is due to recording with different mics, polar patterns, different rooms, different artists etc etc. So this is only a guide to help you get started!

Some people may want to compress or saturate first and thats fine too. It just all depends on the vocal and on what sound you are trying to go for. ???

Hope this helps!

Much Love ❤️
Manny

p.s Don’t miss out on next weeks tip where I will be covering chord voicings for 7th chords