Should you compress before or after reverb?

An effective way to apply reverb to a lead vocalist or lead instrument is to use a compressor to automatically reduce (aka “duck”) the reverb when the signal is present, and release after the word or line ends to let the reverb ring out.

Do you compress synths?

Synths do not necessarily need compression in the same way that vocals and some acoustic instruments often do, where compression is used to create a more consistent dynamic range evening out peaks and troughs in volume. On synths, compression is used more as an effect to create a certain distinctive sound.

How do you compress a synthesizer?

It often sounds great to compress atmospheric synths subtly. Use a soft knee and a low ratio of about 2:1. The attack can be short, but the release time of the compressor can be long. We often compress atmospheric synths by 2dB to 3dB.

What does Predelay on reverb do?

Pre-delay is a parameter found in reverb processors. It refers to the amount of time between the original dry sound, and the audible onset of early reflections and reverb tail. For example, a longer pre-delay will move the reverb tail out of the way of the vocals, making them much more present and understandable.

How do you EQ your reverb?

To EQ your reverb, you’ll need to make sure you’re using a reverb bus. Create a send on the instrument(s) you want to add reverb to, and set the output to an empty bus. Then, add an EQ and a reverb to that bus track. The reverb needs to be on a seperate bus.

What does damping do on reverb?

Damping. Damping is the absorption of high frequencies in the reverb. Low damping values yield less high-frequency absorption, whereas high damping values produce more absorption of high frequencies.

How do I increase the volume of my reverb?

The golden rule of almost every signal processing effect is to increase the volume to where you want it, and then turn it back down some. Less is more. Dropping the volume of the reverb back by about 2 dB to 4 dB under where you like it is a nice safe spot. Subtlety is the name of the game.

How much compression should I put on my synth?

We compress synths about 3dB with a ratio in between 2:1 to 5:1. If the saw synth has a long attack and release you might want to give the compressor a lower ratio to keep a subtler dynamic sound. With a long attack of the synth, the attack of the compressor can be shorter and with a softer knee.

Why does my reverb sound like it’s coming from the back?

If you’re using your DAW’s mixer like most of us are, this will happen for you because the reverb insert is coming in after the track’s panning. Or you’re sending the signal post-pan to a bus that has the reverb on it. A mono reverb will sound like it’s right behind the instrument creating it.

Should I boost the compressor on my synth?

With a long attack of the synth, the attack of the compressor can be shorter and with a softer knee. Same as with saw synths, only boost lead synths if it is really necessary.