Noob question on compression/automation

[chk23]

Originally Posted by Nell

So when i record verses, due to how its delivery is (like starts off normal and then its almost like passionate delivery thats loud)(not clipping, but still alot loduer), by the time the verse is done, the end its ALOT louder then the start, but compressing it doesnt help me much, automation sort of does but i can hear a blatant volume change, but how do you get 3 verses sounding all the same, level wise? just compression changes how the vocals sounds for me sometimes. so yeah.... NOOB QUESTION OF THE DAY.

If you can't get the right settings for compression, maybe an auto level plugin like waves vocal rider will do. If the Vocal Rider is too expensive, just do a google search for "automatic gain control plugin".

[The Aristocrat]

what compression settings are you using?

[Nell]

I dont think waves plugins work with sonar, but ima search for a gain control plugin like you said.. and the settings i had was 3:1 ratio and the knee between 7-9? fast attack and release, then i just lower the threshhold (sonitus compressor), i think theres something to compression i havent learnt yet etc.

[KeMiKaL]

Smash it with the Waves L2!!!!

[Stackx]

Originally Posted by Nell

but how do you get 3 verses sounding all the same, level wise?

by adjusting the volume. or adjusting the gain (gain staging)


if you have vocals that are jumpy then the compression settings you have should be right. i would try a tougher ratio though probably 6-8:1 with a high threshold, not effecting the softer parts but compressing the louder parts.

[jeremycox]

What levels of gain reduction were you seeing? I'd try layering a few compressors.

Start by setting one with a fast attack, fast release (highish ratio--maybe 5?) thats only grabbing the transients. Set another with a slower attack, slower release that really controls the dynamic of the track as a whole. Are you mixing these vocals into beats that are tracked out, or are you trying to layer them on top of an already compressed instrumental?

[Bender412]

Based on your description, it's very possible that what you're hearing is a difference in tone, not necessarily volume alone. If your performance starts off calm, then gets more intense, your voice tone will change, AND the preamp will react different in tone also. It's very easy to mistake a difference in tone for a difference in volume.

So yo may need to automate your EQ if you want to even that out.

[parkay909]

1. Train your vocalist.
2. Spend as much time as it takes (days, weeks, months) riding the automation until it sounds right. Your going to be an expert in "mouse mixing" when you are done. No plug-in can do what good ears and a little patience can.