Mastering the Art of Sidechaining: A Comprehensive Guide to Sidechaining Kick into 808

Sidechaining is a powerful audio processing technique used in music production to create a balanced and engaging sound. One of the most common applications of sidechaining is ducking the low-end frequencies of a track, typically an 808 or a bass sound, under a kick drum. This technique helps to prevent the low-end from getting muddy and ensures that the kick drum cuts through the mix. In this article, we will delve into the world of sidechaining and provide a step-by-step guide on how to sidechain a kick into an 808.

Table of Contents

Understanding Sidechaining

Sidechaining is a process where the level of one audio signal controls the level of another audio signal. In the context of sidechaining a kick into an 808, the kick drum signal is used to control the level of the 808. When the kick drum is triggered, it sends a signal to the compressor, which then reduces the level of the 808. This creates space in the low-end for the kick drum to shine through, resulting in a tighter and more defined sound.

The Benefits of Sidechaining

Sidechaining offers several benefits, including:
– Improved low-end clarity: By ducking the 808 under the kick drum, sidechaining helps to prevent the low-end from getting muddy and unclear.
– Enhanced kick drum presence: Sidechaining ensures that the kick drum cuts through the mix, providing a solid foundation for the track.
– Increased overall energy: By creating space in the low-end, sidechaining helps to increase the overall energy and dynamics of the track.

Choosing the Right Compressor

When it comes to sidechaining, the choice of compressor is crucial. A compressor with a fast attack and release time is ideal for sidechaining a kick into an 808. Some popular compressors for sidechaining include the FabFilter Pro-C2, Waves C6, and the OTT compressor.

Setting Up Sidechaining in Your DAW

Setting up sidechaining in your digital audio workstation (DAW) is a relatively straightforward process. The exact steps may vary depending on the DAW you are using, but the basic principle remains the same.

Creating a Sidechain Compressor

To create a sidechain compressor, you will need to insert a compressor plugin on the 808 track and set the kick drum as the sidechain input. This can be done by selecting the kick drum track as the sidechain source in the compressor plugin.

Adjusting the Compressor Settings

Once the sidechain compressor is set up, you will need to adjust the compressor settings to achieve the desired effect. The threshold, ratio, attack, and release times are the most critical parameters to adjust.

Threshold: The threshold determines the level above which the compressor starts to reduce the level of the 808. A lower threshold will result in more compression, while a higher threshold will result in less compression.
Ratio: The ratio determines the amount of compression applied to the 808. A higher ratio will result in more compression, while a lower ratio will result in less compression.
Attack: The attack time determines how quickly the compressor responds to the kick drum signal. A faster attack time will result in a more aggressive compression, while a slower attack time will result in a more subtle compression.
Release: The release time determines how quickly the compressor returns to its normal state after the kick drum signal has passed. A faster release time will result in a more dynamic compression, while a slower release time will result in a more sustained compression.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Sidechaining

While sidechaining can be a powerful technique, it can also be tricky to get right. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve effective sidechaining:

Using a Filter to Target Specific Frequencies

Using a filter to target specific frequencies can help to improve the effectiveness of sidechaining. By filtering out the high-end frequencies of the 808, you can focus the compression on the low-end frequencies, resulting in a tighter and more defined sound.

Experimenting with Different Compressor Settings

Experimenting with different compressor settings can help you to find the perfect balance for your track. Don’t be afraid to try out different threshold, ratio, attack, and release times to see what works best for your music.

Using Sidechaining in Conjunction with Other Processing Techniques

Sidechaining can be used in conjunction with other processing techniques, such as EQ and saturation, to create a unique and interesting sound. By combining sidechaining with other processing techniques, you can add depth and complexity to your track.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sidechaining

While sidechaining can be a powerful technique, it can also be easy to get wrong. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when sidechaining:

Over-Compressing the 808

Over-compressing the 808 can result in a lifeless and flat sound. Be careful not to over-compress the 808, as this can suck the energy out of the track.

Not Adjusting the Compressor Settings

Not adjusting the compressor settings can result in a compression that is too aggressive or too subtle. Take the time to adjust the compressor settings to achieve the desired effect.

Not Using a Filter to Target Specific Frequencies

Not using a filter to target specific frequencies can result in a compression that is too broad. By using a filter to target specific frequencies, you can focus the compression on the low-end frequencies, resulting in a tighter and more defined sound.

Conclusion

Sidechaining is a powerful technique that can help to create a balanced and engaging sound. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can master the art of sidechaining and take your music production to the next level. Remember to experiment with different compressor settings, use a filter to target specific frequencies, and avoid common mistakes such as over-compressing the 808. With practice and patience, you can achieve a professional-sounding mix that will leave your listeners impressed.

In terms of the technical aspects, it is also worth noting that the specific steps for setting up sidechaining can vary depending on the DAW being used. For example, in Ableton Live, you would use the “Sidechain” button in the compressor plugin to select the kick drum track as the sidechain input. In Logic Pro, you would use the “Side Chain” menu in the compressor plugin to select the kick drum track.

It is also important to note that sidechaining is not limited to just kick and 808. It can be used on a variety of different tracks and instruments to create a wide range of different effects. For example, you could use sidechaining to duck a vocal under a lead instrument, or to create a pumping effect on a synth sound. The possibilities are endless, and it is up to you to experiment and find the sounds that work best for your music.

Ultimately, the key to successful sidechaining is to experiment and find the settings that work best for your specific track. Don’t be afraid to try out different compressor settings and techniques until you find the sound that you are looking for. With practice and patience, you can master the art of sidechaining and take your music production to the next level.

In addition to the technical aspects of sidechaining, it is also important to consider the creative possibilities that it offers. Sidechaining can be used to create a wide range of different effects, from subtle and nuanced to extreme and dramatic. It can be used to add depth and complexity to a track, or to create a sense of tension and release. The key is to experiment and find the sounds that work best for your music.

By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, and by experimenting with different compressor settings and techniques, you can unlock the full creative potential of sidechaining and take your music production to the next level. Whether you are a seasoned producer or just starting out, sidechaining is a technique that is definitely worth exploring.

In conclusion, sidechaining is a powerful technique that can help to create a balanced and engaging sound. By mastering the art of sidechaining, you can take your music production to the next level and create tracks that sound professional and polished. Remember to experiment with different compressor settings, use a filter to target specific frequencies, and avoid common mistakes such as over-compressing the 808. With practice and patience, you can achieve a professional-sounding mix that will leave your listeners impressed.

It is also worth noting that sidechaining is not just limited to music production. It can also be used in post-production and live sound to create a wide range of different effects. For example, you could use sidechaining to duck a vocal under a sound effect in a film or television show, or to create a pumping effect on a live sound mix. The possibilities are endless, and it is up to you to experiment and find the sounds that work best for your specific application.

Ultimately, the key to successful sidechaining is to experiment and find the settings that work best for your specific track or application. Don’t be afraid to try out different compressor settings and techniques until you find the sound that you are looking for. With practice and patience, you can master the art of sidechaining and take your music production or post-production to the next level.

By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, and by experimenting with different compressor settings and techniques, you can unlock the full creative potential of sidechaining and achieve a professional-sounding mix that will leave your listeners impressed. Whether you are a seasoned producer or just starting out, sidechaining is a technique that is definitely worth exploring.

In terms of the future of sidechaining, it is likely that we will see even more advanced and sophisticated techniques emerge. For example, some plugins now offer the ability to sidechain multiple tracks at once, or to use advanced algorithms to detect the transient of a kick drum. These advancements will likely continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with sidechaining, and will provide even more creative possibilities for producers and engineers.

Overall, sidechaining is a powerful technique that can help to create a balanced and engaging sound. By mastering the art of sidechaining, you can take your music production to the next level and create tracks that sound professional and polished. Remember to experiment with different compressor settings, use a filter to target specific frequencies, and avoid common mistakes such as over-compressing the 808. With practice and patience, you can achieve a professional-sounding mix that will leave your listeners impressed.

It is also worth noting that sidechaining is not just a technical technique, but also a creative one. It requires a deep understanding of the music and the desired sound, as well as the ability to experiment and try out different settings and techniques. By combining technical knowledge with creative vision, you can unlock the full potential of sidechaining and create tracks that are truly unique and innovative.

In conclusion, sidechaining is a powerful technique that can help to create a balanced and engaging sound. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, and by experimenting with different compressor settings and techniques, you can master the art of sidechaining and take your music production to the next level. Whether you are a seasoned producer or just starting out, sidechaining is a technique that is definitely worth exploring.

The future of sidechaining is likely to be shaped by advancements in technology and the development of new plugins and techniques. As producers and engineers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with sidechaining, we can expect to see even more innovative and creative uses of this technique. By staying up-to-date with the latest developments and advancements, you can stay ahead of the curve and continue to create tracks that sound professional and polished.

By combining technical knowledge with creative vision, you can unlock the full potential of sidechaining and create tracks that are truly unique and innovative. Remember to experiment with different compressor settings, use a filter to target specific frequencies, and avoid common mistakes such as over-compressing the 808. With practice and patience, you can achieve a professional-sounding mix that will leave your listeners impressed.

In terms of the creative possibilities of sidechaining, the sky is the limit. By experimenting with different compressor settings and techniques, you can create a wide range of different effects, from subtle and nuanced to extreme and dramatic. You can use sidechaining to add depth and complexity to a track, or to create a sense of tension and release. The key is to experiment and find the sounds that work best for your music.

In terms of the technical aspects of sidechaining, it is also worth noting that the specific steps for setting up sidechaining can vary depending on the DAW being used. For example, in Ableton Live, you would use the “Sidechain” button in the compressor plugin to select the kick drum track as the sidechain input. In Logic Pro, you would use the “Side Chain” menu in the compressor plugin to select the kick drum track.

What is sidechaining and how does it apply to music production?

Sidechaining is a powerful audio processing technique used in music production to control the level of one audio signal based on the level of another audio signal. This technique is commonly used to create space and balance in a mix, particularly when working with multiple elements that occupy the same frequency range. By using sidechaining, producers can create a more cohesive and polished sound, where each element has its own unique place in the mix. For example, sidechaining a compressor to a kick drum can help reduce the level of a bass sound when the kick drum is playing, creating a more balanced low-end response.

In the context of sidechaining a kick into an 808, this technique is used to create a tight and controlled low-end response. By compressing the 808 sound based on the level of the kick drum, producers can create a more cohesive and balanced sound, where the kick drum and 808 sound work together in harmony. This technique is particularly useful in genres such as hip-hop and electronic dance music, where a strong and prominent low-end response is often desired. By mastering the art of sidechaining, producers can take their music to the next level, creating a more professional and polished sound that translates well across different playback systems.

What are the key elements involved in sidechaining a kick into an 808?

The key elements involved in sidechaining a kick into an 808 include the kick drum sound, the 808 sound, a compressor plugin, and a sidechain routing setup. The kick drum sound provides the trigger signal that controls the compressor, while the 808 sound is the signal being compressed. The compressor plugin is used to reduce the level of the 808 sound when the kick drum is playing, creating a more balanced low-end response. The sidechain routing setup is used to route the kick drum signal to the compressor, allowing it to control the level of the 808 sound.

To set up a sidechain routing, producers typically need to use a digital audio workstation (DAW) that supports sidechaining, such as Ableton Live or Logic Pro. The kick drum sound is typically routed to a compressor plugin, which is then sidechained to the 808 sound. The threshold, ratio, and attack/release settings on the compressor plugin are then adjusted to achieve the desired amount of compression and control over the 808 sound. By carefully adjusting these settings, producers can create a tight and controlled low-end response that enhances the overall sound of their music.

How do I set up a sidechain routing in my DAW to sidechain a kick into an 808?

To set up a sidechain routing in your DAW, you will typically need to create a new track for the kick drum sound and another track for the 808 sound. You will then need to insert a compressor plugin on the 808 track and set the sidechain input to the kick drum track. The specific steps for setting up a sidechain routing will vary depending on the DAW you are using, but most DAWs provide a similar workflow. For example, in Ableton Live, you can set up a sidechain routing by clicking on the “Sidechain” button in the compressor plugin and selecting the kick drum track as the input.

Once you have set up the sidechain routing, you can adjust the threshold, ratio, and attack/release settings on the compressor plugin to achieve the desired amount of compression and control over the 808 sound. It’s also a good idea to use a metering plugin to visualize the level of the 808 sound and adjust the compressor settings accordingly. By carefully setting up the sidechain routing and adjusting the compressor settings, you can create a tight and controlled low-end response that enhances the overall sound of your music. Additionally, you can experiment with different compressor plugins and settings to find the sound that works best for your music.

What are the benefits of using sidechaining to control the level of an 808 sound?

The benefits of using sidechaining to control the level of an 808 sound include creating a more balanced and cohesive low-end response, reducing low-end clutter and mud, and enhancing the overall clarity and definition of the sound. By compressing the 808 sound based on the level of the kick drum, producers can create a more controlled and polished sound that translates well across different playback systems. Sidechaining also allows producers to create a more dynamic and interesting sound, where the level of the 808 sound is constantly changing in response to the kick drum.

In addition to these benefits, sidechaining can also help producers to create a more professional and commercial sound. By using sidechaining to control the level of the 808 sound, producers can create a sound that is similar to that of professional producers and engineers. This can be particularly useful for producers who are looking to release their music on a commercial label or to get their music played on the radio. By mastering the art of sidechaining, producers can take their music to the next level and create a sound that is competitive with that of other professional producers.

How do I adjust the compressor settings to achieve the desired amount of compression and control over the 808 sound?

To adjust the compressor settings and achieve the desired amount of compression and control over the 808 sound, you will need to experiment with different threshold, ratio, and attack/release settings. The threshold setting determines the level above which the compressor starts to reduce the level of the 808 sound, while the ratio setting determines the amount of reduction. The attack and release settings determine how quickly the compressor responds to the kick drum signal and how quickly it returns to its normal state. By adjusting these settings, you can create a range of different compression effects, from subtle and gentle to extreme and dramatic.

When adjusting the compressor settings, it’s a good idea to start with a moderate threshold and ratio setting and adjust from there. You can also use a metering plugin to visualize the level of the 808 sound and adjust the compressor settings accordingly. Additionally, you can experiment with different compressor plugins and settings to find the sound that works best for your music. It’s also important to listen to the sound in context and adjust the compressor settings based on how the sound fits into the overall mix. By carefully adjusting the compressor settings, you can create a tight and controlled low-end response that enhances the overall sound of your music.

Can I use sidechaining to control other elements in my mix, such as synths or vocals?

Yes, you can use sidechaining to control other elements in your mix, such as synths or vocals. Sidechaining is a versatile technique that can be used to control a wide range of audio signals, from drums and percussion to synths and vocals. By using sidechaining to control the level of other elements in your mix, you can create a more balanced and cohesive sound, where each element has its own unique place in the mix. For example, you can use sidechaining to duck a synth sound under a vocal, or to reduce the level of a percussion sound when a drum sound is playing.

To use sidechaining to control other elements in your mix, you will need to set up a sidechain routing and adjust the compressor settings accordingly. The specific steps for setting up a sidechain routing will vary depending on the DAW you are using, but most DAWs provide a similar workflow. You can also experiment with different compressor plugins and settings to find the sound that works best for your music. By mastering the art of sidechaining, you can take your music to the next level and create a sound that is professional, polished, and competitive with that of other producers and engineers. Additionally, you can use sidechaining to create a range of creative and interesting effects, from subtle and nuanced to extreme and dramatic.