Produce Like A Pro
Marc Daniel Nelson demonstrates how to use FabFilter Pro-MB for sidechained multiband compression to place backing vocals behind the lead in a dense pop mix. By sidechaining the lead vocal into a multiband compressor on the backing vocal bus, Nelson ensures that the sibilant frequencies of the lead vocal trigger compression on the backing vocals. This technique reduces the harshness and phasing issues caused by multiple vocalists starting their s's at slightly different times. Nelson emphasizes that this method allows the lead vocal to remain the focal point without overly compressing it, while maintaining the clarity and presence of the backing vocals. This approach helps achieve better separation and makes the mix sound more cohesive and pleasant. Using this technique, Nelson effectively manages a complex mix with over 150 tracks, ensuring that the lead vocal stands out clearly while the backing vocals sit well in the mix.
Streaky
Streaky refines the low end of a mix by using a multi-band compressor and expander, such as the FabFilter Pro-MB. The idea is to divide the low frequencies into two specific bands, one with compression, and one with expansion. The compression band is set to below 115 Hz and aims to tighten and control the sub frequencies. The expander band is side-chained from the sub band and enhances the upper bass range from 115 Hz to 350 Hz. So whenever the sub frequencies are reduced, this band adds punch back in. The combination of the bands contributes to a lively, moving low-end that is clear and controlled.
Aulart
Felguk uses two stages of multi-band sidechain compression to create space in the low end and make the kick and the bass work together in a well defined way.
Produce Like A Pro
Marc Daniel Nelson shares a background vocal mixing technique that he discovered by accident, which has since become a staple in his mixing arsenal. This approach involves using the FabFilter Pro-MB as an expander to emphasize the higher frequencies (between 2 kHz and 15 kHz) of the background vocals, thereby enhancing their brightness, punchiness, and presence in a distinct manner. To ensure the background vocals remain supportive and do not overshadow the lead, Nelson incorporates two stages of de-essing and employs a Klanghelm MJUC compressor with a high-pass filter in the sidechain, set to around 400 Hz. This technique creates a sense of space and airiness around the vocals, yielding a polished pop sound that is especially effective for dense arrangements with a high track count.