Whether we’re mixing Pop, R&B, or EDM: The goal is to create a MASSIVE soundstage, which radiates energy, space, and excitement!
The key to achieving that? Synths!
In today’s video, four of the world’s top engineers share their synth mixing techniques with you, and show you how to make your synths POP!
- Ariel Chobaz (Nicki Minaj, Eminem, Rihanna)
- Richard Furch (Prince, The Weeknd. Boyz II Men)
- Bob Horn (Usher, Timbaland, Akon)
- Matt Lange, who has created his own, unique lane as an EDM producer!
Buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride!
Here Are 4 PRO Tips Included In This Tutorial:
(I recommend watching the full video for details and sound examples – It’s a fun one!)
1. Want To Make Multiple Layers Of Synths Sit Well In The Mix?
EQ is your best friend to achieve this goal. More specifically, reductive EQ!
Not every synth part needs to cover the entire frequency spectrum. Sometimes, you can even get away with heavy filtering. By cleaning up the frequencies you DON’T need, you will create space for other synth parts to shine. In addition, drastic EQ can help to give each part its own unique space in the mix.
Try it out! Your mixes will sound bigger and have more definition than ever before!
2. Use Automated Filters
I’m sure many of you already know this technique, but automated high-and low pass filters can add fantastic movement in your mix. In EDM, they’re frequently used to create tension, and help the song to build into the main chorus or drop.
Remember that swoosh sound you hear on almost every modern production? Yep, that’s an automated filter!
3. Use Special FX To Create A Unique Vibe
Since Synth’s are ‘artificial’ instruments to begin with, you can get super creative with effects and create a unique sound that no one’s ever heard before! Whether it be chorus effects to widen your synth, flanger, automated gates, panning. The world’s your oyster!
Unsure where to start? Just give the effect plugins you’ve never used a spin. Crank them and see what happens!
3. Saturation Makes Synths Sound Better. Period.
I don’t know what it is with saturation and synths, but every time I put a saturation plugin on a synth I love it. It simply adds so much energy, excitement, and richness to the sound. In addition, saturators also give your Synths a more ‘analogue’, ‘tangible’ and ‘solid’ feel.
If I had to pick one ‘favourite tip’ this is it!
4. Make Synths 3 Dimensional: Reverbs & Delays
Just like with any regular instrument, reverbs and delays help you to create a unique space for them in the mix.
However, since Synths are so rich in their sound quality, these effects sound even cooler!
Going back to point 2: Try to automate your reverbs and delays, have them bounce from side to side, distort them, mangle them. – I’m sure you’ll love playing around with these effects!
Serious About Taking Your Mixes To The Next Level?
Check out our Premium courses with Ariel Chobaz (Eminem, Rihanna), Richard Furch (Prince, The Weeknd) and Bob Horn (Usher, Timbaland)!
I hope you enjoy this video! There are a lot of super creative techniques in there that’ll REALLY help you step up your mixing game.
Sam