Music Production Knowledge Backlog

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DAW Automation used to your advantage

Nov 18, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I share a powerful technique for adding organic feel to your tracks by using automation in your DAW while staying in the creative flow. I demonstrate how to use the automation feature for recording parameter changes in real-time, allowing for dynamic and unique sound variations. This approach focuses on creativity over precision, bringing life to electronic music by embracing imperfections and avoiding the rigidity of perfectly timed automation.

Audio Visualizer: Spectrogram

Nov 11, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I introduced my free-to-use online audio visualizers, including a newly updated spectrogram that works without any subscription or login. I demonstrated how to use it to analyze music, tweak various settings, and export MIDI files, all while mentioning ongoing improvements and welcoming feedback. Thanks to my Patreon supporters, I can offer these tools for free, and I invite viewers to try them out and contribute through GitHub if interested.

Cubase 14 supports Bitwig DAWPROJECT

Nov 06, 2024 Tutorial
In this video, I explore Cubase 14's new ability to import and export DAWPROJECT files, an open-source format for exchanging projects developed by Bitwig developers. I test a simple drum and bass tune from Bitwig to Cubase and back, noting that while some elements like note clips, automation, and grouping transfer, certain features like stretch modes and some automations are missing or not fully compatible. Overall, it's a promising start for cross-DAW compatibility, though there is still significant room for improvement.

Disharmonic Sounds with Freq Shifted Notes

Nov 04, 2024 Tutorial
Over the weekend, I explored an idea where I used a frequency shifter on an A minor sample to create disharmonic or horror sounds by altering frequency relationships. To maintain clarity and avoid artifacts, I emulated the frequency shifting effect using a note grid to shift pitches down manually, allowing for the creation of new harmonic relationships and microtonic scales. This approach is particularly useful for generating unique sounds for horror soundtracks or techno music, and I've shared the patch in the description for those interested in trying it out.

Curve EQ by Voxengo - Layering Made Easy

Oct 31, 2024 Tutorial
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.

Impulse Responses without the Impuse

Oct 30, 2024 Tutorial
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.

RingMod Sidechain in Bitwig - RMSC

Oct 28, 2024 Tutorial
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.

SnapBack by CableGuys and Drum Layering in Bitwig

Oct 27, 2024 Tutorial
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.

Feedback Loops with Bitwig

Oct 25, 2024 Tutorial
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.

Ripple Delay Sounddesign Ideas

Oct 23, 2024 Tutorial
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.

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