In this three part free video tutorial series we go back to basics on setting up and using reverb in a mix. For those new to mixing these videos will help you establish a reverb workflow similar to what the pros use. For those who consider themselves a dab hand at mixing, it doesn't hurt from time to time to remind yourself of the basics.
Episode 1: How To Setup A Reverb Plug-in In A Mix
In this first episode we show you two ways of setting up reverb plug-ins in a mix. We demonstrate this in Pro Tools but the processes we show can easily be applied to other DAWs. Reverb, and other plug-in effects, can be used in series as an insert on a track or in parallel setup as an effects return. Watch this episode to learn the differences between these two approaches and how to set reverb levels in both.
Episode 2: Choosing A Reverb Style
In this second episode we demonstrate how easy it can be to choose a reverb style. Option paralysis often kicks in early when auditioning between a variety of different reverb styles. This can lead you to picking an unflattering style of ambience that you may later be unhappy with as your progress through your mix. An easy way to combat this and be confident in your decision making is to turn your attention to what you prefer instead of trying to pick the “best” sound. This videos shows you how we whittled down our choices and were able to pick the reverb we felt worked for the source. We also show you a number of controls common in reverb plug-ins that can help you to place reverbs in a mix.
Episode 3: Adjusting The Tone Of A Reverb
In this final episode we show you how to shape the tone of your reverb and why it is important to experiment with this. In isolation reverbs often sound luscious and immersive however in the context of a mix reverbs of this power can quickly muddy up a mix. Most reverbs include some form of tone shaping ability that mix engineers use for focusing the tone of ambiences to fit in and flatter the bigger picture of a mix. We also show you a common creative trick many engineers insert before reverb for adding interest to key tracks in a mix such as vocals and lead guitars.
Visit LiquidSonics to learn more about Seventh Heaven which was used to illustrate the topics in this tutorial series.