Dithering, what is that and do we need it?
- Analogue is infinitely continuous, digital is bits (zoom in on a file and see the Read more
EQ Tips for the Mastering Process
EQ the Midrange
Listen and try to identify any problems that you hear. Start with the midrange (vocals, guitar, midrange keyboard, etc.) as this will typically represent the heart and soul of the song. Does it sound too "muddy"? Too nasal? Too harsh? Compare it to another mix, perhaps a commercial CD. Try to describe to yourself what the difference is between the two mixes around the midrange.
Too muddy? Try Read more
Multiband Compression
Multiband Cutoffs In general, you want to try to split your mix so that each region captures a prominent section of your mix. For example, the strategy behind the default band cutoffs is as follows… Band 1: This band is set from 0 to 120 Hz, to focus on the "meat" of the bass instruments and kick drum. Band 2: Band 2 extends from
Low Frequency Absorbers
This type of absorption relies on the principle of the Quarter Wavelength trapping. Otherwise the size of dedicated low frequency absorbers would exceed accommodatable dimensions.
If you would imagine an enclosure to trap low frequencies, based on the principle of the quarter wavelength approach, what would happen?
- Sound pressure equals zero at the mouth and particle velocity is maximum
- At the bottom of the cavity, sound pressure is maximum and particle velocity is minimum.
This lays out the foundation for resonators with absorptive capabilities based on friction.
How does such a resonator work?
- Glass fiber board is placed across the front of the cavity to generate friction resulting in maximum absorption.
- Zero pressure at the mouth/opening constitutes a vacuum that sucks energy toward the cavity like a ‘sound sink’.
- Trap therefore has greater absorption than the cavity itself due to vacuum effect.
- Usability of such absorption resonators is dependant on space (i.e. low frequency wavelengths aren’t small!)
The Helmholtz Resonator
This Read more
Do it yourself: Panel Absorber
Panel Absorbers
- These types of absorbers are easily made with a little handy work
- Check out “Everest, Master Handbook of Acoustics, Chapters 9 & 13” for more information on that topic
Definition: A panel of plywood or particle board is placed over an air cavity with insulation glued to the back of the panel. The panel has a resonate frequency and when it occurs in the room it resonates and the insulation absorbs the energy.
- These types of absorbers are easily made with a little handy work
- Check out “Everest, Master Handbook of Acoustics, Chapters 9 & 13” for more information on that topic
The other great advantage of panel absorbers is
