EP#78: What Is Sidechaining & When To Use It in your Tracks

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Now, you might have heard about this production technique in the context of compression. You may already be using this technique in your own projects but even if you’re not just yet, you might have heard someone talk about adding sidechain compression either in a studio or on a YouTube video.

But, if you’re totally new to sidechaining, today’s episode will break it down so you’re no longer in the dark. And if you’re already using sidechaining in your music, perhaps we’ll just fill in any gaps in your knowledge or confirm that you’ve got this whole sidechaining thing wrapped up.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
{0:00} Intro
{02:34} Side chaining in a nutshell
{02:49} Why we use it in music production
{04:25} 3 of the most common uses of side chaining
{10:43} The best way to start using side chaining in your tracks
{11:00} Episode Summary

Read Sage Audio’s blog post, What is Sidechaining >>

Read Ledger Note’s article What is Sidechaining >>

Read iZotope’s blog post 5 Essential Tips for Mixing Reverb >>

Watch @mikerussell’s ‘Sidechain Compression to Duck Music W/ Voice’ video tutorial >>

Watch @mastering.com’s ‘Vocal Reverb  Sidechaining’ Logic video tutorial >>

Watch @whatsupimforrest’s ‘Silent Sidechaining / Ghost Compression’ Tutorial for Ableton Live 11 >>

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Girls Twiddling Knobs has ended, but you can stay connected to Isobel's artistic work here.

Girls Twiddling Knobs was hosted by Isobel Anderson and produced by Isobel Anderson and Jade Bailey from Nov 2020-Jan 2026 and will remain live on all major podcast platforms throughout 2026. 

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