{"id":1901,"date":"2021-02-27T14:21:09","date_gmt":"2021-02-27T14:21:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/?p=1901"},"modified":"2023-06-11T17:32:43","modified_gmt":"2023-06-11T16:32:43","slug":"how-to-use-ableton-sidechain-compression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/how-to-use-ableton-sidechain-compression","title":{"rendered":"How To Use Ableton Sidechain Compression (Easy 5 Step Guide)"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:42.857142857143%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:35.714285714286%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:35.714285714286%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:35.714285714286%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you&rsquo;re looking for a way to blend instruments, bring out a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocal <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span>, or make a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> pop through the mix, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> is a potent tool that every producer should be familiar with.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\"> By allowing you to compress <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signals together <\/span>whilst simultaneously adding an EQ filter, you can create a responsive sonic environment where certain sounds precede. Some sounds subtly shine through whilst others fade seamlessly into the background.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you&rsquo;re like me, you&rsquo;ve probably spent hours staring at <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/is-ableton-live-good-for-beginners\">Ableton Live<\/a>, nudging the levels of tracks to get that elusive perfect mix. <\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Dial-up the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/what-is-bass-roll-off\">bass<\/a> a tad, but now it&rsquo;s drowning out the kick. Boost the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/kick-drum-compression\">compression gain on the kick drum<\/a> track, and now the master is clipping. Turn down the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/how-to-eq-a-bass-guitar\">bass on the acoustic guitar<\/a>, and it&rsquo;s a whole domino effect of fidgeting with levels.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2.jpg\" alt=\"How To Use Ableton Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20700%20350'%3E%3Crect%20width='700'%20height='350'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"How To Use Ableton Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1920 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-2-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compression<\/span> Guides the Ear Towards Focal Points<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Any producer will tell you that one of the most difficult parts of <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">music production<\/span> is understanding what <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> actually does and how it can maximize the song&rsquo;s feel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Compressors manipulate a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span> by taming peaks and boosting low volumes, creating a smaller range in volume. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Think about an opera singer in an auditorium. When she whispers, you can&rsquo;t make out what she&rsquo;s saying. When she belts at her loudest, your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/why-do-musicians-wear-earpieces\">ears go deaf<\/a> for a second, and your wine glass explodes. Now imagine putting a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">audio<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> effect<\/span> on her. (Stay with me, folks.) Now you can make out what she&rsquo;s saying when she whispers, and you don&rsquo;t get tinnitus when she belts out, plus the wineglass is intact!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284.jpg\" alt=\"Opera Singer \" class=\"wp-image-1929\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-608x391.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Opera Singer \" class=\"wp-image-1929 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284-608x391.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T122528.284.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Now imagine a guy with a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> comes on stage and starts playing with her. Whenever he hits the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> while she&rsquo;s singing, her voice drowns it out.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">This is when it&rsquo;s time for a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor, by adding<\/span> one to the opera singer and referencing it to the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span>&nbsp;so that whenever he hits the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum,<\/span> her voice reduces in volume temporarily. Now you can feel the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Thanks for sticking with me through that bizarre analogy (and please don&rsquo;t invite me to that show.) I hope you now have a good grasp of the concept behind <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> and side <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span>. Now I&rsquo;ll show you how actually to do it.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">What Do You Need?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span>. 9 or 10 are recommended, but if you&rsquo;re working on 8, it&rsquo;s a little different, though you should be able to use this <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> tutorial<\/span><\/span>. You&rsquo;ll also need multiple tracks to work with. I have a song with a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> loop<\/span>, guitar, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass guitar<\/span>, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">synth<\/span> piano, organ <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">midi clip<\/span>, harmonica, and vocals for this tutorial. <\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\">That&rsquo;s a lot of instruments, but that shows how much time <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> can save. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I&rsquo;ve got a real snappy-sounding snare <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> that I want to pop, but with so many instruments going on, it&rsquo;s hard to get the levels just right. I&rsquo;ll use a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span> to maximize the snappy snare sound.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\">How to Use <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compression in 5 Steps<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Step 1: Add <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compressor<\/span> to <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Track<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">First, select <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Live&rsquo;s <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compressor<\/span> from <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Audio<\/span> Effects and drag it into an <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">audio<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> effect<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> rack<\/span>. I&rsquo;m putting it on an instrument group that includes the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span>, guitar, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">synth<\/span> piano, mandolin, and organ.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1.jpg\" alt=\"How To Use Ableton Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1912\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"How To Use Ableton Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1912 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Compressor-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Step 2: Enable <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Click on the triangle on the top left of the window, between the yellow circle and where it says &ldquo;<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compressor<\/span>.&rdquo; This shows you more <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> settings<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg\" alt=\"Select Sidechain Compressor From Dropdown \" class=\"wp-image-1913\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Select Sidechain Compressor From Dropdown \" class=\"wp-image-1913 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Select-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\"><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Click on &ldquo;<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span>&rdquo; to enable it.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg\" alt=\"Turn on the Sidechain Compressor \" class=\"wp-image-1914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Turn on the Sidechain Compressor \" class=\"wp-image-1914 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Step 3: Set <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Routing<\/span> and Parameters<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Under &ldquo;<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Audio<\/span> From,&rdquo; select a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> to use for the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> input<\/span>. I&rsquo;m selecting the snare as the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">trigger<\/span>&nbsp;so that the input signals will compound with signals from all the instruments.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2.jpg\" alt=\"Select Input for Sidechain Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1939\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Select Input for Sidechain Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1939 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/turn-on-Sidechain-Compressor-2.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1.jpg\" alt=\"Set Sidechain Routing and Parameters\" class=\"wp-image-1915\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Set Sidechain Routing and Parameters\" class=\"wp-image-1915 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/select-snare-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Now that I&rsquo;ve activated the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span>, I set the Threshold around the middle so that it catches the snare hits and noticeably diminishes in volume. I set the attack at a pretty quick 0.3 ms, so it triggers shortly after the snare input signals reach the Threshold. The 8.81 ms release makes for a small window of time that the instrument signals are being reduced. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2.jpg\" alt=\"Adjust Sidechain Threshold, Attack, Ratio, Release\" class=\"wp-image-1918\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Adjust Sidechain Threshold, Attack, Ratio, Release\" class=\"wp-image-1918 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/snare-sidechain-2.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The snare now sounds louder and clearer without clipping or crowding the mix. It&rsquo;s almost perfectly snappy, but it&rsquo;s a little too boomy-I&rsquo;d rather let the crispness of the snare bleed through. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">EQ filter is a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> filter that allows you to equalize the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Step 4: Enable and set up EQ<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1.jpg\" alt=\"Sidechain - Enable and set up EQ\" class=\"wp-image-1919\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-192x96.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-384x192.jpg 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-561x281.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-364x182.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-608x304.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Sidechain - Enable and set up EQ\" class=\"wp-image-1919 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-300x150.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-192x96.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-384x192.jpg.webp 384w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-561x281.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-364x182.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1-608x304.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/sidechain-eq-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\"><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">To accentuate the snare crack, I want to direct focus towards the trebly space on the tail end of each hit. I bump the attack up to 0.5 ms, turn on the EQ, and select 1.34 kHz to boost. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">That way, the high timbre of the snare triggers the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> of all instruments. I listen to it now, and the snare perfectly shines through in all its crisp, snappy glory.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Step 5: Have fun and experiment<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I know whenever I discover a new <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">plugin<\/span>, it takes me a while of messing around with it and listening to it in the wild to understand how it works. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I recommend lowering the Threshold and upping the Ratio at first so that the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> compresses down quite a bit. It will make the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span> cut out or wobble depending on the Attack and Release times. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Then you can see how different EQ filters alter the triggering and how parameters shape the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span>. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I recommend taking the time to get acquainted with <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span>&lsquo;s native <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span>. <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span> does a great job of providing visual representations to show what exactly plugins do to manipulate <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">audio<\/span> signals. Once you&rsquo;re familiar with how <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> works and have a few favorite setups, I recommend using the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> option<\/span> on Live&rsquo;s <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">multiband <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652.jpg\" alt=\"Ableton Live Multiband compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1930\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-300x129.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-561x240.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-364x156.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-608x261.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Ableton Live Multiband compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1930 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-300x129.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-561x240.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-364x156.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652-608x261.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T132931.652.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Third-Party Compressors<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you don&rsquo;t want to go through the motions dialing in <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">&lsquo;s <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span>, there are plenty of third-party <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> plugins out there as well. <\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Some of the best out there today<\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.audiodamage.com\/pages\/free-downloads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\"> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Audio<\/span> Damage RoughRider 3 (FREE)<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3.jpg\" alt=\"Audio Damage RoughRider 3 - Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1925\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-300x107.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-561x200.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-364x130.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-608x217.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Audio Damage RoughRider 3 - Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1925 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-300x107.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-561x200.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-364x130.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3-608x217.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Audio-Damage-RoughRider-3.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/klanghelm.com\/contents\/products\/MJUC.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Klanghelm MJUC<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC.jpg\" alt=\"Klanghelm MJUC Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1926\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-300x107.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-561x200.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-364x130.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-608x217.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Klanghelm MJUC Compressor\" class=\"wp-image-1926 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-300x107.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-561x200.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-364x130.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC-608x217.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Klanghelm-MJUC.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.native-instruments.com\/en\/products\/komplete\/effects\/solid-bus-comp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Native Instruments Solid Bus Comp<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp.jpg\" alt=\"Native Instruments Solid Bus Comp\" class=\"wp-image-1927\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-300x107.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-561x200.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-364x130.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-608x217.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Native Instruments Solid Bus Comp\" class=\"wp-image-1927 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-300x107.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-561x200.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-364x130.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp-608x217.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Native-Instruments-Solid-Bus-Comp.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">FAQ<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">What does S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> C<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">ompression<\/span> do?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It compresses the volume of a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> in response to the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span> of another <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span>. If a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocal <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> is side-chained to a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span>, the vocal <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> will be triggered each time the vocal and <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> signals are added together and hit the threshold.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">When should I use S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> C<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">ompression<\/span>? <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Use it anytime you want something to &ldquo;shine through&rdquo; something else. If you&rsquo;re making a sweaty EDM song and want the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">kick <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> to dominate everything else, then put everything else through a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor; if<\/span>&nbsp;you want vocals to cut through a guitar without bumping up the volume, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> the vocals to the guitar channel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Is S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> C<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">ompression<\/span> necessary?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It&rsquo;s not necessary, but for most mixes, sidechaining can be applied in some way that will, at the very least, save you some time and enhance the listening experience. That being said, most <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span> pros use <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> in one form or another, even if it&rsquo;s to make a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> rack<\/span><\/span> pop a tiny bit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Should I S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> vocals?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Yes. Conventionally, you&rsquo;ll want to make sure vocals stand out and float above instruments. By sidechaining from vocal tracks to instruments, you can soften the instruments with the singing. This is quicker than automating down instrument <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> volumes and makes a natural-sounding focal point out of the vocals. You can also <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> vocals to a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> rack<\/span><\/span> to make the hits shine through the vocals.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Should you EQ or Compress first?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Every decision you make while mixing is a creative one&hellip; it really depends on the situation and how you want to change the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span>. <\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Suppose you EQ before the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span> might ruin that perfect color you have. <\/span><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Then you adjust the EQ, but you have to change the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressed <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span> again in a tedious back-and-forth.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I prefer both: I usually cut the sub-bass<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">&nbsp;frequencies<\/span> and any other tones I don&rsquo;t like and then emphasize frequencies I like after <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span>. This is called <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">parallel <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> and is a great way to make a guitar sparkle through a voice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\"> Another powerful way to address <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> and EQ simultaneously is <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\">using <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span>&lsquo;s Multiband Dynamics <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">plugin<\/span> to compress 3 EQ bands at a time. You can also S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> compressed signals using the same process as the regular <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compressor<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">When should I use a Sidechain?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Anytime you&rsquo;re trying to establish a hierarchy of tracks, want to make something pop or shine through, or when you need something to respond in volume to something else. For electronic dance music, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> compressing synths and routing to a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> is almost always advisable to make that <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">kick <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> drive the song. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Excessive use of this creates the classic &ldquo;pumping effect&rdquo; popular in European <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/how-to-make-house-music\">House music<\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you set the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">synth<\/span> tracks to become completely quiet when the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> hits, you get the &ldquo;<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">gate effect<\/span>.&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Fun Ideas for <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Compression<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I may be a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span> super-nerd, but if you&rsquo;re not excited about the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">plugin<\/span>, you should be. I prefer <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span>&lsquo;s native <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sidechain<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">plugin<\/span> because it&rsquo;s one of the most powerful and easy-to-understand out there. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Here are some things I like to do when S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> Compressing.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898.jpg\" alt=\"Fun Ideas for Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1931\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-608x391.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Fun Ideas for Sidechain Compression\" class=\"wp-image-1931 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898-608x391.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T133426.898.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Ringing Singing<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I&rsquo;m a big fan of vintage 60s-70s vocals, particularly the spring <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">reverb<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span>. While <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Ableton<\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> Live<\/span><\/span> has some decent presets that emulate spring <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">reverb<\/span> technology, I like to make the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">reverb<\/span> respond to the singer&rsquo;s volume to mimic the &lsquo;ringing&rsquo; you hear in older recordings.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">To do this, make an effect send <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> with <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">reverb<\/span> emphasized around 4-6kh, a quick high-timbre delay with moderate feedback, and then use the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">signal<\/span> in a S<span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">idechain<\/span> for the vocals. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">You can then set the threshold so that when the singer hits louder notes, the vocals are compressed, accentuating the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">reverb<\/span> and springy delay. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you make the time short, you can make it <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> like an analog clipping event (for any Lofi friends reading.) <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">You can even take it a step further by putting a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sine wave<\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">auto filter<\/span> on the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> before <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compression<\/span>, forcing it to clip, and creating a manual type of distortion.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B07PRH7BGM?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=homemusicmake-20&amp;linkId=85bbe16be8b9799fc97b16c5af2808c5&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_il\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B07PRH7BGM&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=homemusicmake-20&amp;language=en_US\" alt=\"\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B07PRH7BGM&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=homemusicmake-20&amp;language=en_US\" alt=\"\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/e\/ir?t=homemusicmake-20&amp;language=en_US&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B07PRH7BGM\" alt=\"\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/e\/ir?t=homemusicmake-20&amp;language=en_US&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B07PRH7BGM\" alt=\"\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Finishing Touches<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Before sending your <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">track<\/span> off to be mastered, it&rsquo;s a good idea to do some slight final Sidechaining so you can create a clear mix with popping focal points and backgrounds that stand back. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">This is a great time to make groups like &lsquo;everything but vocals&rsquo; or &lsquo;everything but the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">kick <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span>.&rsquo;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I like to make anti-groups for melodic instruments like guitars that solo. Usually, I automate Sidechains so that they&rsquo;re only in effect during solos or flourishes. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">For example, with electric guitar tracks, I&rsquo;ll have the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">compressor<\/span> activated during solos and sometimes during nasty licks that don&rsquo;t interfere with other melodic tracks like singing.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563.jpg\" alt=\"Mixing and Mastering\" class=\"wp-image-1933\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-608x391.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Mixing and Mastering\" class=\"wp-image-1933 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563-608x391.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T140342.563.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-15\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Pulsating, Waving, and Pumping<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">By Sidechaining from rhythmic tracks and adjusting time parameters, you can create dynamic rhythms in tonal tracks. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Want it to <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> like gentle ocean waves? Try longer attack and release times. Want to make a hot House beat? <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Sidechain<\/span> the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">kick <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> and make narrow windows for the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">bass <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">drum<\/span> to thrust through the mix.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Dark Shadow<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Another vocal effect I like is adding a vocoder tuned to an octave below the vocal track. I turn it down in the mix so that I feel it rather than hear it. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Sometimes that can crowd the mix, but adding air to the vocals by sidechaining it to other tracks and EQing low frequencies. Then I turn down the vocoder even more, creating a mysterious dark shadow under the vocals. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">This is a great way to inject a subtle spookiness into a voice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, you can achieve lots of different effects with sidechain compression besides its &lsquo;regular&rsquo; use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the example above, I&rsquo;ve used the sidechain to create more space for the snare.&nbsp; Another common method is to use sidechaining on the kick drum and sub-bass, as they both sit in the same frequency range, so it is beneficial to duck the sub and allow the kick to punch through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The native Ableton Live compressor is an excellent tool, and I encourage you to play around with it and learn how to use it to its full potential.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for a way to blend instruments, bring out a vocal track, or make a bass drum pop through the mix, sidechain compression is a potent tool that every producer should be familiar with. By allowing you to compress signals together whilst simultaneously adding an EQ filter, you can create a responsive sonic &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1936,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[105,27],"tags":[82,76],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":105,"label":"Ableton"},{"value":27,"label":"Tips And Techniques"}],"post_tag":[{"value":82,"label":"Ableton"},{"value":76,"label":"Ableton Tips"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Untitled-design-2021-02-27T143309.153.jpg",700,450,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Matt","author_link":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/author\/l0t3ch808"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":105,"name":"Ableton","slug":"ableton","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":105,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Create and produce music like a pro with our Ableton category. Find tutorials, tips, and tricks to enhance your workflow and unleash your creativity.","parent":27,"count":74,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":105,"category_count":74,"category_description":"Create and produce music like a pro with our Ableton category. Find tutorials, tips, and tricks to enhance your workflow and unleash your creativity.","cat_name":"Ableton","category_nicename":"ableton","category_parent":27},{"term_id":27,"name":"Tips And Techniques","slug":"tips-and-technique","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":27,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Stuck and not sure what to do?\r\n\r\nWe\u2019ve got tips, tricks, and techniques that will help you get things moving.","parent":75,"count":262,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":27,"category_count":262,"category_description":"Stuck and not sure what to do?\r\n\r\nWe\u2019ve got tips, tricks, and techniques that will help you get things moving.","cat_name":"Tips And Techniques","category_nicename":"tips-and-technique","category_parent":75}],"tag_info":[{"term_id":82,"name":"Ableton","slug":"ableton","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":82,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":93,"filter":"raw"},{"term_id":76,"name":"Ableton Tips","slug":"ableton-tips","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":76,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":76,"filter":"raw"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1901"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1901"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1901\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7994,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1901\/revisions\/7994"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1936"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1901"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1901"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1901"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}