The Power of Side-Chaining: How to Control Dynamics Like a Pro
In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dive headfirst into the world of side-chaining—one of the most powerful (and often misunderstood) tools in music production. Whether you’re ducking a bass under a kick or carving space in a dense vocal mix, understanding how to properly use side-chaining can transform your tracks from cluttered to crystal clear.
Chris & Jody break down what side-chaining actually is, walk you through how to set it up in your DAW, and even show you how to use it on the MPC Live hardware. Expect practical tips, creative techniques, and their signature banter as they explore multiple side-chaining methods and reveal common mistakes to avoid.
If you’re ready to tighten your low-end, add groove to your synths, or just learn why everyone keeps talking about compression, this episode will give you the tools and know-how to make side-chaining work for you.
Oh, and don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds—you just might discover your next studio obsession. And yes, a bit of nonsense is included at no extra charge.
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Gear we used:
Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.
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If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com