One step production hacks (Part II)

               As the continuum to our last production hack post , we present the 2nd and the last part of our production hacks post. In case you missed the first part of the post , be sure to check it out here : One step production hacks (Part I)

CPU  Overloading

                We all will agree that we do use a lot of plugins, and most importantly, a lot of software synths, which do take a considerable part of our CPU space. One of the easiest ways to do is to do as much of eq-ing and compressing of the sounds in the synth itself, as it will save up a huge memory which would instead be used by external Compressors and EQs. Another easy way is to cut down the unnecessary automation curves where they are not needed or are not in use. Even if it apparently seems that no output equals to no CPU usage, but actually, a part of the CPU is still handling the process even though no visible/audible output is there.

                In this way more CPU space is available for the bigger sound synths and mastering plugins.

Tri-saw ; the  game  changer

                Sometimes to make some smooth pads, we almost immediately jump for the saw. But most of the time, we fail to understand the power of a tri-saw in this case.

                A tri-saw is basically a combination of both a triangular wave and a sawform. It has the smooth sub of a triangle, as well as preserves a bit of the brightness of the sawform. It is a good waveform to build the main sound of a pad or a smooth chord.

                If you want to know more about the various waveforms and how to use them accordingly , you can check this article : Knowing Your Basic Waveforms

Pitching  of  closed  hats

                You may be surprised to hear this , but , but ,and , but ! Closed hats are also one of the percussive elements of a track. Like anything else , they can also be pitched accordingly to give some awesome effects.

                You have listened to those pitched 808 kicks and subs in trap, or pitched Kicks in Hardstyle, Drum and Bass or Gabber. Rather pitching of kicks is a necessary part in many Future Bass or Chill Trap tracks.

                Likewise , if you can vary the pitch of closed hats , especially in the drum grooves where there are lots of triplets or quadruplets , you will hear some awesome differences.

Spatial  arrangement

`               Same way as every other thing in this world is properly placed due to some reason , the different parts of a tracks also needs to be spatially arranged.

                                A very good way to start is by narrowing the sub-bass, or by completely doing it mono.In that way there will be a good foundation of the track. To bring out an open vibe , try to increase the stereo separation of the melody lead and chords.

                                Refer to these two samples to understand the difference.

                     Sound Without Stereo Separation :-


                      Sound With Stereo Separation :-

Sidechain  Compression

                Moving to the final, and a very important topic, sidechain compression.

While it is a very necessary thing in Electronic music, some genres of EDM have pushed it a bit more than necessary to give in a very bouncy and groovy vibe to it. Future Bounce , Future House , Melbourne Bounce , Future Bass , To name it a few.
                Refer to these two samples to understand the difference.

                           Without Sidechaining :-


                            With Sidechaining :-


         An extra bonus ;) Melody complete with Beats :-