Sidechain Compression: The Secret to a Powerful Mix

Side-chain compression is a commonly used technique in dance music production, particularly in genres such as house, techno, and trance. The purpose of side-chain compression is to create rhythmic pumping effects by reducing the volume of certain elements in a mix, such as a bassline or kick drum, whenever a sidechain source, such as a vocal or pad, is playing.

The origins of sidechain compression

The origin of side-chaining in dance music is not clear and it is likely that multiple producers and engineers independently developed the technique. However, side-chaining has been a staple of dance music production for many years and has been used in various forms in various genres for decades.

One of the early uses of side-chaining in dance music can be traced back to the 1990s, when dance music producers started using side-chain compression to create rhythmic pumping effects in their tracks. The technique quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple of dance music production, with producers using it in various forms to create unique and dynamic sounds.

It is worth noting that side-chaining is not limited to dance music and has been used in various forms in other genres of music, such as rock, pop, hip-hop, and more. However, it has become particularly associated with dance music and is often used to create the rhythmic pumping effects that are so characteristic of the genre.

When to use sidechain compression in dance music?

Sidechain compression is a powerful but misunderstood tool in producing electronic music. By understanding how to use this effect correctly and creatively, you can add movement to your tracks and make them stand out from the rest.

Here are a few situations when side-chain compression is commonly used in dance music:

1. To create rhythmic pumping effects: Side-chain compression can be used to create rhythmic pumping effects in a mix by reducing the volume of the bassline or kick drum whenever the sidechain source is playing. This helps to create a sense of movement and energy in the mix, which is particularly useful in dance music.
2. To make room for the lead element: Side-chain compression can be used to make room for the lead element in a mix by reducing the volume of other elements, such as a bassline or drums, whenever the lead element is playing. This helps to ensure that the lead element is prominent and easily audible in the mix.
3. To add excitement and tension: Side-chain compression can be used to add excitement and tension to a mix by creating rhythmic pumping effects and by making room for the lead element. This can help to keep the listener engaged and to build momentum in the mix.
4. To create a sense of space: Side-chain compression can be used to create a sense of space in a mix by reducing the volume of certain elements whenever the sidechain source is playing. This can help to create a sense of depth and dimension in the mix.

These are just a few examples of when side-chain compression can be used in dance music. The specific use will depend on the producer’s individual style, the track, and the desired effect.

What does the sidechain process look like?

1. Designate a sidechain input – Start by assigning an audio source or signal as the sidechain input; this will be used to trigger the main signal’s compressor
2. Set up parameters for the compressor – Adjust the threshold, ratio, attack and release settings for your compressor; lower the threshold so that more of your signal is coming through and set a fast attack & release so that it reacts quickly
3. Tweak type of signal & frequency range – Play around with different types of signals (like white noise) and frequency ranges (like low-end bass) to get unique results
4. Use automation – Use automation to adjust dynamics over time for expressive changes; raise or lower levels in certain sections for contrast or texture
5. Experiment! – Try different combinations of settings until you find something that suits your track; don’t be afraid to try new things which may lead you down unexpected paths By incorporating sidechain compression into your workflow, you’ll add incredible energy and movement to any trance track!

The best sidechain plugins available today:

Here are some popular free sidechain VST plugins:

1. Nicky Romero Kickstart: A simple sidechain plugin that helps to create that famous pumping effect on your kick drum.
2. MCompressor: A versatile compressor plugin with sidechain input and external sidechain options.
3. LFO Tool: LFO Tool is a popular sidechain plugin that uses low-frequency oscillations to create a rhythmic pumping effect in your mix. It can be used to sidechain multiple elements of your mix, making it a versatile tool for shaping your sound.

These are just a few of the options available, and there are many other great sidechain plugins out there. Ultimately, the best sidechain plugin for you will depend on the specific needs of your production and your personal preferences.

How to do side-chain compression in Ableton Live?

There are several ways to perform side-chaining in Ableton Live:

1. Using the Ableton Compressor: This is the most straightforward option, as the Ableton Compressor has a built-in sidechain option. Simply follow the steps outlined in my previous answer to apply sidechain compression using the Ableton Compressor.
2. Using a sidechain plugin: There are a variety of third-party sidechain plugins available for Ableton Live, such as VolumeShaper, Kickstart, and others. These plugins can be used in a similar fashion to the Ableton Compressor, with the option to customize the sidechain effect in various ways.
3. Using a dynamic processing rack: Another option is to create a dynamic processing rack, which allows you to apply sidechain compression using multiple effects and processing tools within Ableton Live. To create a dynamic processing rack, follow these steps:

• Insert an audio effect rack on the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to.
• Within the audio effect rack, insert a sidechain-enabled compressor and set it up for sidechain processing, as described in my previous answer.
• Additionally, you can add other effects and processing tools, such as filters and equalizers, to further shape and refine the sidechain effect.

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert a send effect and choose the audio track containing the sidechain source as the send destination.
• Create a new audio track and insert a return effect, and choose the send effect as the return source.
• Insert a sidechain-enabled compressor on the return track, set it up for sidechain processing, and adjust the send level on the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, as desired.

These are just a few options for performing sidechain compression in Ableton Live. The specific method you choose will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.

How to do side-chain compression in FL Studio?

There are several ways to perform side-chaining in FL Studio:

Using the Fruity Compressor: The Fruity Compressor in FL Studio has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Fruity Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Fruity Compressor effect.
• In the Fruity Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Maximus Multi-Band Compressor: The Maximus Multi-Band Compressor in FL Studio is a multi-band compressor that can be used to apply sidechain compression to specific frequency ranges. To use the Maximus Multi-Band Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Maximus Multi-Band Compressor effect.
• In the Maximus Multi-Band Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, for each frequency band as desired to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount for each frequency band to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Fruity Limiter: The Fruity Limiter in FL Studio has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Fruity Limiter for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Fruity Limiter effect.
• In the Fruity Limiter, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the limiter settings, such as the threshold and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

These are just a few of the options for performing sidechain compression in FL Studio. The specific method you choose will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.

How to do side-chain compression in Cubase?

There are several ways to perform side-chaining in Cubase:

Using the Compressor: The Compressor in Cubase has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Compressor effect.
• In the Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Multiband Compressor: The Multiband Compressor in Cubase is a multi-band compressor that can be used to apply sidechain compression to specific frequency ranges. To use the Multiband Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Multiband Compressor effect.
• In the Multiband Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, for each frequency band as desired to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount for each frequency band to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Limiter: The Limiter in Cubase has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Limiter for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Limiter effect.
• In the Limiter, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the limiter settings, such as the threshold and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

These are just a few of the options for performing sidechain compression in Cubase. The specific method you choose will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.

How to do side-chain compression in Logic Pro?

There are several ways to perform side-chaining in Logic Pro X:

Using the Channel EQ: The Channel EQ in Logic Pro X has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Channel EQ for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Channel EQ effect.
• In the Channel EQ, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the EQ settings as desired to shape the sidechain input signal.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Compressor: The Compressor in Logic Pro X also has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Compressor effect.
• In the Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Multipressor: The Multipressor in Logic Pro X is a multi-band compressor that can be used to apply sidechain compression to specific frequency ranges. To use the Multipressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Multipressor effect.
• In the Multipressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, for each frequency band as desired to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount for each frequency band to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

These are just a few of the options for performing sidechain compression in Logic Pro X. The specific method you choose will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.

How to do side-chain compression in Studio One?

There are several ways to perform side-chaining in PreSonus Studio One:

Using the Channel Strip Compressor: The Channel Strip Compressor in Studio One has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Channel Strip Compressor for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Channel Strip Compressor from the Inserts menu.
• In the Channel Strip Compressor, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Console Shaper: The Console Shaper in Studio One is a multi-band compressor that can be used to apply sidechain compression to specific frequency ranges. To use the Console Shaper for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Console Shaper from the Inserts menu.
• In the Console Shaper, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, for each frequency band as desired to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount for each frequency band to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

Using the Fat Channel XT: The Fat Channel XT in Studio One is a high-quality channel strip with a compressor that has a sidechain input option that can be used to apply sidechain compression. To use the Fat Channel XT for sidechain compression, follow these steps:

• Create a new audio track and load the sidechain source into it.
• On the audio track you want to apply sidechain compression to, insert the Fat Channel XT from the Inserts menu.
• In the Fat Channel XT, activate the “Sidechain” option and select the audio track containing the sidechain source as the sidechain input.
• Adjust the compression settings, such as the ratio, threshold, attack, and release, to control the sidechain compression.
• Finally, adjust the gain reduction amount to apply the desired amount of sidechain compression.

These are just a few of the options for performing sidechain compression in PreSonus Studio One. The specific method you choose will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.

Conclusion

We hope this article about sidechain compression was useful to you. Let us know in the comments what you think!

If you’d like to read more suggestions about how to make better music, you can also check out this article with 13 producer tips to finish 10x more tracks!