ABSTRACT
One of the more puzzling aspects of DAW editing is knowing where and when to use plug-ins. Broadly categorized, these include dynamics control, equalization (EQ), reverb and delays, modulation, and pitch control. So many mixes start out with great promise but ultimately fall short due to overuse (or underuse) of plug-ins. This is largely due to a lack of understanding of how they actually work – in fact, many of the underlying concepts can be traced back to the fundamentals that are covered in Chapters 1 and 2. One can also adopt a “Zen” approach to using plug-ins, where less is more. The philosophy offered here is to use the least amount of processing possible, and when using a plug-in such as EQ, always cut before boosting – otherwise your mix will creep up in volume over time, and it will be hard to track down those volume issues in a multitrack session. The most useful plug-ins will be examined thoroughly, along with commonly used presets and practical techniques. Specific processors will include compressors/limiters, EQ, reverb, delays, and modulators.
