Mix Note 097 / Vocals & space New
Distort a vocal in parallel
Full-range distortion adds excitement and destroys intelligibility.
The move
Blend a filtered distortion return under the dry lead and automate it for emphasis.
Do this- Send the lead to a distortion return.
- Filter and blend it beneath the dry vocal.
- Ride the return for emphasis.
Listen for this.
Keep consonants readable through the densest section.
Know when to back off.
Check latency and phase before assuming the blend only changes tone.
Match loudness when you compare. If the original serves the song better, undo the change.
Crucible
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Keep working.
098 / Vocals & spaceThrow one word, not the whole sentenceA constant delay crowds a quick vocal.028 / Vocals & spaceDe-ess before you add air.A bright shelf can make an already sharp S sound painful.048 / Vocals & spaceDelay times for every tempo.A delay can overlap the next phrase when its rhythmic placement is wrong.
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