What is ducking
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Ducking is an audio processing technique where the level of one signal is automatically lowered whenever another signal is present. This is most commonly achieved using sidechain compression to create space in a mix, ensuring that a primary element (like a vocal or kick drum) remains clear and prominent without being masked by background elements (like music or bass).
- 1.Insert a compressor or dedicated 'ducker' plugin on the background track (e.g., the music).
- 2.Enable the 'Sidechain' input on the plugin and select the foreground track (e.g., the vocal) as the trigger source.
- 3.Adjust the Threshold and Ratio so the background volume drops significantly whenever the foreground signal is present.
- 4.Fine-tune the Release time to ensure the volume recovers smoothly and naturally once the foreground signal stops.
- ×Avoid overly fast release times which can cause 'pumping' or audible fluttering.
- ×Too much gain reduction can make the background track sound unnatural or distracting.
- ×Ensure the sidechain source is 'Pre-Fader' if you want the ducking depth to remain consistent regardless of the trigger's volume fader.
Use a 'ghost' track (a muted trigger track) to control the ducking if you want the ducking effect to happen even when the trigger source isn't audible in the mix.
Based on AI training data — may not reflect current information.
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