Ryan Schwabe shares his insights on the power of automation in mixing, highlighting its importance in enhancing musical dynamics. He frequently automates the master fader, adjusting volumes in various song sections to create an engaging sonic arc.
Schwabe emphasizes the vocal's role as the premier instrument, dedicating automation efforts to adjust volume, effects, and stereo width, particularly during transitions between verses and choruses. This detailed automation ensures the music feels dynamic and alive.
He also discusses automating volume changes into clippers, ensuring gain staging maintains clarity without unwanted clipping. Automation introduces energy shifts, making modern, compressed tracks feel more vibrant and exciting, utilizing even minor changes for dramatic effects.