Attack Attack!

URM Academy

Using Trackspacer for punchier drums

Joey Sturgis demonstrates using Wavesfactory Trackspacer to achieve punchier drums by enhancing the kick and snare's presence in a mix. Inspired by the key spikes technique, Sturgis creates "Track Spacer Blips" by sending ultra-short, one-millisecond bursts of the kick and snare to a sidechain input on Trackspacer. This setup allows the plugin to duck the rest of the mix momentarily, giving the kick and snare a clear, focused moment to shine. By setting the Trackspacer's attack and release to the fastest possible settings and adjusting the effect to around 4-5%, Sturgis ensures the effect remains subtle yet impactful, especially on small speakers. This technique prevents frequency masking, allowing the kick and snare to cut through the mix without overpowering it, resulting in a competitive drum sound.