What is Sidechain Compression? A Guide for EDM Artists.

Sidechain compression is an essential audio technique in music production, especially in electronic dance music (EDM) and pop. This technique allows one audio signal, usually the kick drum, to dynamically control the volume of another signal, such as a bass or synth, creating a pulsing, rhythmic effect. Sidechain compression creates space for elements in a track to “breathe,” letting critical sounds like kicks shine through the mix by momentarily reducing the volume of other elements.

How Sidechain Compression Works

In standard compression, a compressor is placed on a track to control its own dynamics. But with sidechain compression, a second audio track—often a kick drum or percussive element—is sent as a “trigger” to control the compression on the main track, such as the bass. This trigger signal tells the compressor when to reduce volume, typically lowering the level of the bass as the kick sounds, which prevents frequencies from clashing and creates a pulsing effect.

For example, in EDM, the kick drum is the driving element, and sidechain compression is applied to the bass. Every time the kick hits, the compressor lowers the bass volume slightly, making the kick stand out. This ensures clarity in the low end, as well as adding rhythmic energy.

Benefits of Sidechain Compression

1. Enhanced Clarity: By lowering the bass or synth volume when the kick hits, sidechain compression prevents muddy frequencies.
2. Rhythmic Effect: This “ducking” effect creates a characteristic EDM pumping sound, enhancing groove and movement in the track.
3. Control Over Mix Balance: It lets producers give priority to essential elements, such as the kick, ensuring they remain prominent.
4. Improved Dynamic Range: Sidechaining opens up dynamic space, making mixes sound cleaner and more controlled.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Sidechain Compression

1. Select the Compressor: Place a compressor on the track you want to “duck” (e.g., bass).
2. Enable Sidechain Input: Most DAWs offer a sidechain input option in compressors; choose the kick or desired audio trigger.
3. Adjust Threshold: Set the threshold so that the compressor activates each time the kick plays.
4. Tweak Attack and Release: Use a quick attack to make the ducking effect start immediately, and adjust release to control how quickly the volume returns.
5. Set Ratio and Makeup Gain: High ratios work well for EDM to create a pronounced effect, while makeup gain can help balance the volume.

Popular Plugins for Sidechain Compression

Here are some widely used plugins that make sidechaining easy and effective:

1. Kickstart by Nicky Romero: A simple yet powerful plugin, Kickstart offers preset sidechain curves and bypasses the need for complex routing.
2. Xfer LFO Tool: Popular in EDM, LFO Tool creates customized sidechain patterns with precise control over attack and release for a polished pumping effect.
3. FabFilter Pro-C 2: This versatile compressor includes sidechain options, precise control, and transparent sound quality, making it ideal for mixing and mastering.
4. Wavefactory Trackspacer: A unique plugin that applies sidechaining dynamically based on frequency content, which adjusts based on input audio.
5. Ableton’s Native Compressor: For Ableton Live users, the built-in compressor includes a reliable sidechain function, making it easy to set up and control.
6. VolumeShaper by Cableguys: This plugin allows custom volume automation to create detailed sidechain effects without traditional compression, perfect for complex rhythmic patterns.

Advanced Techniques with Sidechain Compression

For a more creative approach, sidechain effects can be applied to other instruments, such as pads or arpeggios, giving them a rhythmic bounce that enhances groove and interest in the track. You can even sidechain elements based on vocal hits or specific percussion sounds to add syncopation and rhythmic variation.

Final Thoughts

Mastering sidechain compression can significantly elevate a producer’s toolkit, providing cleaner mixes, dynamic rhythmic effects, and improved clarity. Whether you’re using standard compression plugins or dedicated tools, understanding sidechain compression will allow you to take your productions to the next level.

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