Music Production Knowledge Backlog

In this video, I rediscovered an old plugin called Curve EQ, which I've had for around 20 years and find invaluable for layering drum loops by using its match EQ feature to remove overlapping frequencies. Instead of constantly adjusting a regular EQ, I've shown how to use Curve EQ to statically match and inverse the frequency spectrum of a simple kick and snare loop with another drum loop, achieving perfect layering without CPU strain. I also expressed a wish for some of these features to be integrated into the main GUI for easier access, and suggested it to the developer, Alexei.

In this video, I discovered that the Unfilter plugin, which I initially used primarily for removing resonances, has a fascinating feature that allows you to export transfer curves as impulse responses. This capability enables you to mimic the resonances and filter characteristics of one sound on another, creating a more cohesive and authentic sound environment for your audio projects. If you own Unfilter, give this feature a try; if not, consider adding it to your wishlist for future purchases.

In this video, I explain the concept of ring mod sidechain modulation and demonstrate how to achieve it in Bitwig Studio. I discuss the potential for distortion using this method and suggest using Bitwig's audio sidechain modulator as a cleaner alternative. Additionally, I provide a more advanced setup in Bitwig's FX Grid for precise control, with both presets available in the video description.

In this video, I discuss the Snapback plugin by Cableguys, which detects drum triggers to layer samples on top or in front of drum sounds, and compare it to a Bitwig Studio native solution. I demonstrate how to use the Bitwig Replacer device to achieve similar results, offering a free preset for viewers to experiment with. Ultimately, I highlight the Snapback plugin's intuitive interface and quality sample selection as key value points.

In this video, I demonstrated how to create feedback loops in Bitwig Studio's grid using noise sources, delay, and auto gain to maintain stable levels and explore unique soundscapes. I showed how to incorporate various effects, such as phasers and filters, within the loop to alter the sound while using post-effects like reverb and pitch correction for additional texture. I've also included a downloadable setup for you to try out and experiment with the techniques discussed.

I recently explored the Ripple Delay plugin by Process Audio and found its ability to integrate effects within the feedback loop, while allowing delay times as low as one millisecond, to be quite impressive. This feature is currently challenging to replicate in Bitwig Studio due to its limitations with buffer size, which affects delay time when effects are included in the feedback chain. I'm hopeful for future updates in Bitwig, but in the meantime, I recommend trying out this plugin to experiment with creating unique soundscapes.

In this video, I discuss the new free update for XLN Audio's Addictive Drums 2, which I've used for nearly two decades. The update improves the plugin's layout with modern visuals, UI rescaling for better visibility on 4K screens, and some new features like a multi-band compressor and trigger gate. I'm thrilled with these subtle but impactful changes, making it a pleasure to use moving forward.

In this video, I discuss the challenges many music producers face with perfectionism and overthinking in music production and creativity. I share my approach of setting internal time limits to stay in a creative flow and avoid being bogged down by endless tweaking, emphasizing that the mental aspect of creation is often more vital than acquiring new gear. Chatting with ChatGPT helps me reflect on my ideas and explore these topics further, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on this format.

In this video, I demonstrate how to create interesting descending and ascending pitch sequences in Bitwig Studio's grid by using modules like pitch bus, octave wrapper, and pitch quantizer. I explain how to maintain pitches within a specific octave, use the transport module for polyrhythmic structures, and combine multiple sequences with different parameters. You can find the patch linked in the description to explore these concepts further.

Drumclone extracts and re-synthesizes drum sounds from mixed audio, making it useful for isolating kicks, cloning percussion, and rebuilding breakbeats.

In this video, I discuss the updates in Bitwig Studio 5.2.5, focusing on the new audio import behavior settings, like the ability to choose between stretch modes and the reintroduction of the raw import option. I demonstrate how these changes affect sample imports and recordings, and highlight additional interface improvements like devices scrolling into view in the chain. Overall, I find these updates to be positive steps forward, but I suggest further tweaks, such as a consistent raw setting for recordings, would make the experience even better.

In this video, I showcase a small touchscreen I bought for $120 and discuss using it as an additional metering screen with custom web-based visualizers I developed. The visualizers, including a vectorscope and spectrum analyzer, are accessible for free through my website and are built using vanilla JavaScript, allowing for easy tweaking and customization. I also provide links to try them out and encourage viewers to share feedback and suggestions.

In this video, I provide updates on several plugins, including KickNinja's new features like phase locking and improved sample layering, making it one of the best kick drum VSTs available. I also discuss Node Grabber, a straightforward tool for manual audio-to-pitch conversion, although I find it overpriced. Additionally, I share my experiment with creating a spectral analyzer using AI to code web applications, which is accessible online for free.

In this video, I demonstrate how to replicate the functionality of the Plasma plug-in by iZotope within Bitwig Studio. By using techniques like loud split, EQ adjustments, and saturation, I create a flexible method to achieve similar frequency-specific saturation effects without the high CPU usage. I also provide a free preset for download, encouraging viewers to like, subscribe, and share their thoughts in the comments.

In this video, I demonstrated how to clone EQ settings using impulse responses, showing the process with tools like an EQ curve analyzer, Ozone 8 EQ, and a convolution device. By recording the output of the Ozone 8 and using a test tone or Dirac signal, I showcased two methods to replicate the linear phase EQ setting. This technique is useful especially if you don't have a built-in linear phase EQ in your DAW like Bitwig.

In this video, I explore ways to recreate kick drums using only native devices in Bitwig Studio by separating and synthesizing the low-end sine wave from a noisy kick sample. I demonstrate using filters, the Harmonic Split device, and the FX Grid to analyze pitch and volume, ultimately re-synthesizing the low end while discussing the challenges of persisting data within Bitwig. Despite some limitations, such as the inability to save pitch envelope data, I show that this method can effectively replicate kick drum sounds.