In this episode of MakeMineMusic, Marc Daniel Nelson dives in deep about the effects of going too far with widening and the damage it could cause more than good. Watch as he approaches widening mixes in a more focused manner which in turn brings out the best in his mixes.
In the world of music production and mixing, stereo widening has become a popular technique to create spacious and immersive soundscapes. However, in recent times, there has been a noticeable trend of excessive stereo widening that can lead to detrimental effects on the center channel and the overall mix. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of stereo widening and discuss how to use it judiciously to enhance your mix without compromising its center focus and punch.
Understanding the Phenomenon of Stereo Widening
Stereo widening is a technique used to expand the stereo image of a mix, making it sound wider and more immersive. This effect is achieved by manipulating the stereo field of individual instruments or the master bus using plugins or hardware processors. When done right, it can breathe life into a mix and add a sense of depth.
The Pitfalls of Excessive Stereo Widening
While stereo widening can be a powerful tool, there is a growing concern about its overuse in modern mixes. Many producers and mix engineers tend to apply heavy stereo processing on the master bus, resulting in a phenomenon known as the “catastrophic hole in the center channel.” This means that the center of the mix, which is crucial for punch and strength, is compromised, leading to a lack of focus and clarity.
How Excessive Widening Affects the Mix
When stereo widening is overly applied, elements in the center channel, such as vocals and instruments with strong center points, start to suffer. Vocal sibilance may become smeared, acoustic guitars may lose their clarity, and the drum kit’s punch can be affected. Moreover, when listening to such mixes on different playback systems like speakers and headphones, the widening effect varies drastically due to psychoacoustics, resulting in an inconsistent listening experience.
A More Targeted Approach to Stereo Widening
Rather than indiscriminately slathering stereo widening on the master bus, a more thoughtful and targeted approach can yield better results. Instead of applying stereo widening to the entire mix, focus on specific elements that can benefit from it. For instance, instruments like organs or synths with a less defined center structure can be pushed to the sides to create an interesting stereo image.
Avoiding Center Channel Damage
To maintain the strength of the center channel and the integrity of the mix, consider applying stereo widening lightly or not at all to instruments that have a well-defined center, such as the bass guitar, drums, and vocals. By doing so, you can preserve the punch and tightness of the mix while still achieving a sense of width in other elements.
Using Stereo Widening Plugins Effectively
When choosing stereo widening plugins, opt for ones that complement the mix without overpowering it. Experiment with different plugins to find the right balance between widening and preserving the center focus. Some plugins offer a clean and subtle widening effect, while others may add a more aggressive and sharp mid-range boost, suitable for specific instruments with overdrive and character.
Conclusion
Stereo widening is a valuable tool that can elevate your mix, but it should be used with caution and restraint. Excessive application can lead to a loss of focus and impact on the center channel, negatively impacting the overall mix. By adopting a more thoughtful and targeted approach to stereo widening, you can strike the right balance between creating width and maintaining a powerful center, resulting in a well-crafted and immersive mix.