Compressing rap vocals In that case, with good enough vocal and mic technique there's hardly a need for compression at all. How do I bring my rap vocal mixes to the next level? What are your golden guidelines for rap vocal mixes? Compression or EQ first? I‘ve been producing, mixing and mastering my own songs and engineered artists for 3 years now. This one focuses on compression techniques. It can be a daunting task, but I have been recording and mixing vocals for ten years and have learned just about Aug 15, 2024 · This guide on how to EQ rap vocals shows the key frequencies to cut or boost to get your vocal sounding like the pros for body and presence. Sep 5, 2022 · How do you use compression on rap vocals to get pro results? Are there any techniques or steps to follow? I give you all the secrets in this article! Aug 29, 2022 · The best compression settings for vocals to use when recording and mixing lead vocals, backing vocals, and rap vocals. The 1176 compressor can be used on vocals to create a polished and professional sound. One other amazing thing about the 1176 compressor is the fact that it will work perfectly in most cases. 1176 can sound very good on vocals, but I'm with Chris on this one - the heavy settings tend to make the Whether you're working on EDM, rap, pop, progressive house, hip-hop, RnB, trap or any other style - these tips will help your vocals stand out in the mix. com/join Instantly Access 15+ Full Courses (520+ Lessons), sound packs, unlimited feedback on your music from me & my team and Mar 12, 2024 · Compressing rap vocals is a delicate balancing act that requires attention to detail and an understanding of the vocal's role within the mix. Today in my vocal mixing tutorial, I'm going to hop in the mix of a session using Z-Ro's vocals showing you some of my vocal mixing techniques! Feb 20, 2025 · In this video I'm going over how I compress a rap style vocal using both and aggressive and soft sounding compressor. The reverb ducks out when the vocals come in, then swells back up in the gaps between phrases. EQing and Compressing A Rap Verse Vocals By (DoubleK Productions)Do You Want To Get A Great Mix Without Starting From Scratch?For Great Mixing Templates! htt Techniques of Rap and Hip-Hop vocal mixing with the use of compression and equalization. #mixingtips #logicproxtutorial #audioe Jan 26, 2024 · In this audio recording tutorial video published by AudioTuts+, I show you how to compress a vocal track using the compressor plugin effect, ReaComp, that comes with Reaper audio recording software. Read more In this video tutorial with Czar Smith from the Waves Street Team, you will learn how to compress rap vocals using the CLA-76 and CLA-2A compressor plugins. Dec 10, 2014 · Compressing and mixing rap vocals can be a daunting task. Master the techniques to enhance your vocal recordings. Feb 29, 2012 · The third and final installment of the Mixing Rap Vocals series. I often find my vocals are compressed but they sound lifeless compared to songs I hear professionally mixed on spotify. Here are my top 10 compressor plugins for Hip Hop vocals! Jul 11, 2023 · Here I identify the best compressor for vocals to get a controlled, tight vocal while preserving the dynamics, just like in pro mixes. Jun 14, 2011 · How do I compress rap vocals. You'll learn how to EQ, compress, and add effects to your rap vocals. For convenience A guy has asked me to mix 6 songs for him, he sends the beat and his dry vocals and I mix them together. You don’t want to create too much space for the rap vocal in the mix, and risk drowning it out among the instruments. Jul 11, 2023 · Here I identify the best compressor for vocals to get a controlled, tight vocal while preserving the dynamics, just like in pro mixes. All settings and use applications listed! In this video, I show you how to compress a rap vocal. 3 days ago · 📚 Can't finish your mixes? Here's a FREE mini-course to fix that! 👉 https://2ly. In this video I'm going to show you how to compress rap vocals in FL Studio. By following these guidelines, you can achieve powerful, clear, and dynamically consistent rap vocals that elevate your music. Maximize your sound now! Sep 4, 2018 · In this tutorial, we'll dial in the best settings for your preamp and tracking compressor to help you record professional rap vocals with more balanced dynam Cumpressing rap vocals is something i've struggled with for a very long time, me never get it to sound right. Enjoy!Comp Learn how to compress your rap vocals easily in Presonus Studio One. Optimize your vocal sound today! @RadiumRecordsHollywood Pulsar MU On Master Buss | Radium POW! (Plugin Of The Week) Rap vocal compression formula 🎙️🧪 👨🏻‍🔬 #rappers #vocals #audioengineer #mixing #mix Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. May 16, 2022 · If you want to learn how to use the Fruity compressor and make your vocals sound perfect, this is the right post for you. This is a concise guide so you'll be able to implement these strategies no matter what software you're using. 3K subscribers 393 Oct 4, 2025 · Learn how to mix rap vocals with this guide. Learn more now. To achieve a professional and polished sound, it is essential to focus on balancing the vocal levels, reducing unwanted resonances, and adding depth and character to the vocals through the right effects. Anyway so on the third song his takes are so different that this is my volume automation and I got sick of it and looked up how to compress as I had a vague idea How to Parallel compress any vocal to perfection with Waves CLA-76 💎Karra No Evil vocal mixing tutorial by Reid Stefan 📲Watch this full coursehttps://mymix How can you get vocals to sit perfectly upfront in the mix, while still feeling lively? With double stacked compression of course, but not in the way you would normally dial it in! Jun 19, 2025 · The compression setting features a quick attack time to catch stray transients, a fast release time so the compression doesn’t color the singer’s sound, and a low ratio so that when the compressor activates, it smooths out the vocals without squashing them. Since the vocals are often too dynamic you’ll need to use multiple compressors. When mixing Hip Hop vocals, you’ll usually start with editing and tuning - then move to processing such as subtractive EQ, compression, additive EQ, saturation, and parallel high-frequency processing. Looking for clear, powerful vocals? This cheat sheet provides step-by-step instructions on EQ, compression, and more for a release-ready sound. Harder compression helps with this, but it’s also common practice to keep reverbs and delay at a minimum. Here are my top 10 compressor plugins for Hip Hop vocals! Top 7 Compressor Plugins For Smooth Vocals 1. So, you want the voice to remain upfront in a mix and powerful. How To Compress Vocals (Without Guesswork!) Getting a vocal to sit perfectly in a mix is not always a walk in the park, especially if you’re working with a singer or rapper who doesn’t have a proper mic technique. (Professional tutorial) Nov 16, 2023 · Compression is important for vocals as it helps a vocal performance to blend into a track. Vocal compression has a lot of universal concepts, but when we get into specific styles of music, sometimes we have to note what those specific styles ask fo For rap vocals, ideal compression attack settings range from 5 to 15 milliseconds to control initial loudness. Hip Hop vocals should be easily heard and blended with the instrumental. My name is Trav from WeGotBeats. link/1zjME ** These are my STUDENTS not my clients ** 💿 To hear mixing/mastering samples, songs we've Struggling to get clean, upfront vocals? Here are 10 powerful tips on how to use vocal compression and compressor settings for rock vocals, rap vocals, & more! Vocal compression settings can make or break your mix. Mixing rap vocals is an […] The 1176 compressor can be used on vocals to create a polished and professional sound. Hi! Recently I bought compressor CLA-76 Vocals and I really struggle with this compressor. Subscribed 16 575 views 1 year ago Complete Guide to Compressing Rap Vocals!!! 🎛 Hire Me for Your Music: https://engineears. No matter if you’re working with rap, pop, or another genre, customizing your compression settings can Grammy Award winning mixing Engineer. Discover how to make rap vocals sound professional with our comprehensive guide. I made a video showing 3 different compressors I like to use that have different chararistics and sounds. The blackface has a faster attack, which makes it ideal for a percussive recording such as fast rap vocals. Learn tips & techniques today! Feb 27, 2020 · Attack and release Vocal performances that place a strong emphasis on the onset of each phrase (ex. Things like leaning in to the mic when you get softer and leaning away when you get louder (the Frank Sinatra technique), moving away when there's a lot of 'p'losives, and having good breath control to ensure even dynamics across Dec 25, 2024 · Best for dynamic vocals in genres like EDM, pop, or hip-hop, where precision and control over fast-changing dynamics are crucial. Here are the common settings for dynamic compression and tonal compression. Dec 8, 2024 · Master vocal compression techniques to achieve pro-level mixes. He goes into detail on Join Here 👉 https://MixElite. A video on finding your vocal compression settings in 3 easy steps, in any DAW i. Feb 20, 2015 · Another great use for compression on vocals is to make the vocal sound thicker – particularly in rap. When compressing vocals try various settings including soft and hard-knee to find what works best for the recording you have. Learn optimal settings, dynamic control, and expert tips for perfectly compressed vocals. I did notice though a lot of the pros on youtube tutorials apply parallel compression to their vocals? Should I learn how to incorporate parallel compression to my vocal mixing Pro tips and techinques on how to mix rap vocals by 225-times platinum audio engineer Vinny DeLeon. Get pro techniques for EQ, compression, effects, and layering to make your tracks sound powerful and clear. It’s essential that they’re front and center without sounding over-compressed or squished. No secret. Jul 22, 2024 · In this tutorial on how to compress rap vocals, I show the exact compression settings to use to keep your rap vocal up front in the mix. How to Use Compression on Vocals | Compressors Explained in DetailIn this video, TheWavMan goes over how to use compression on vocals. Optimize your vocal sound today! Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. Once you're past that small hurdle it's truly very simple Nov 1, 2013 · One of the secrets to getting a good sounding rap vocal is applying compression and lots of it. In that case, getting the right vocal compression settings can be hit-or-miss for a lot of beginner audio engineers. Should you record vocals with compression? Recording vocals with compression saves time and effort, but it ultimately limits your possibilities in post-production. Rap is frequently recorded in home studios, even by big name artists. Well, you’ve come to the right place. com/theswollenonemore May 23, 2024 · RELATED: Best Mics for Rap Vocals One thing I’d recommend is putting a compressor on your reverb return and sidechaining the lead vocal to it. If you just use one compressor, use this approach. energetic rap vocals) generally benefit from a slower attack time. I always use a hard knee and a fast attack and fast release. In this article, I’ll cover how you can learn to compress vocals like the pros -- the engineering gods. Firstly, you’ll need to choose between using blackface or blue-stripe. See full list on musicproductionnerds. Nov 11, 2024 · Learn to use rap vocal samples in Pro Tools, using EQ, compression, and subtle effects to get a professional sound. Since rap and hip-hop vocals are usually percussive and fast, the 1176 is often the best compressor for the job. The blue-stripe Video Link: A Guide to FL Studio's Fruity Compressor The Fruity Compressor is the simple version of FL Studio's compressor and is an excellent tool for understanding how compression works. Master the art of mixing vocals like a true professional! Compressing rap vocals is an artform that involves finding the right balance of control without overdoing it. Jun 9, 2025 · In this tutorial, you will learn rap vocal compression settings to get the best quality in your hip-hop mix. I like using the SSL G-Comp for busses, CLA-76 for either aggressive vocals or for a parallel bus, and CLA-2A for vocals at the end of the chain (usually). Watch how I use a simple method to compress my rap vocals. like at least a ratio of 5:1, maybe more depending on the vocals and how aggresive they are. The use of heavy compression takes away the dynamic range of Today im gonna show you how I like to compress my rap vocals. In this mixing tutotial, Multi-Platinum Mixer Matteo Marciano will demonstrate how to use different types of compressors in order to achieve a radio-ready rap vocals mix. The blackface will give you an aggressive sound, while the blue-stripe produces a smoother type of compression. com/faraitheproducer⚡ Follow On Instagram: @farai_theproducer ⚡ Jo Compression is one of the most popularly used vocal effects. Oftentimes I’ll use multiple compressors that each serve a unique function. Apr 16, 2024 · Want to make your vocals stand out in your mix? Here's our in-depth guide to mixing rap and hip-hop vocals with our best tips and tricks. From fast and aggressive, to smooth and transparent, here's the best! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The use of compression is highly debated, especially today, with engineers pushing (or being told to push) songs to their absolute maximum volume. Jan 12, 2012 · After compressing a vocal track, it will be quieter than what you started with. I'll say it very plainly: You cannot achieve a recording or a mix that matches what you hear on professional releases without a compressor. No matter if you’re working with rap, pop, or another genre, customizing your compression settings can Sep 8, 2024 · Mixing rap vocals with Waves plugins is a popular technique among engineers for enhancing the quality and overall sound of a track. You can use 2 equalizers, one to cut and one after the compressor to boost. Temporal effects like reverb and delay are usually used sparingly, but short reverb will help thicken the vocal. I've always used volume automation to make sure vocals are the same volume, though it's my least favorite part of the process. Discover the best practices and techniques to achieve a polished and professional sound. The best way to mix rap vocals is by using compressors, EQs, and effects in a step-by-step manner. UAD Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor Compressor (Can behave as VCA, Opto & FET Compressor) More Info & Price The EL8 Distressor competes on the market against Slate Digital’s breathtakingly realistic FG-Stress and Empirical Labs’ own supercharged emulation, the Arousor. Learn EQ, compression, reverb, and more for clear, polished vocals. Sep 24, 2024 · Learn the ins and outs of vocal compression with this detailed guide, covering types, effects, techniques, and genre-specific applications. The basics that are necessary to take into account to get dynamic “just in face” Rap vocals and techniques of serial compression. I’m usually compressing a Rap Vocal get it upfront in the mix. Other effects and stuff of course. Learn settings, techniques, and tips to create pro-level mixes in any music genre. 50% of the time, RVox works - I love that. what are some cool tricks to use SSL 4000 on vocals, like compression before this or eq after this than that . Modulation plugins work really well on background vocals as well. Waves plugins offer a range of tools for EQ, compression, and effects that can be used to achieve a professional-level mix. To make up for this lost volume, most compressors have an output volume knob or “makeup gain” knob. What comes 1st between compressor and eq really depends on the vocal recording. Also, try both saturation and compression, as well as a combination of the two to see if the character of the saturation fits the vocal well. link/1zjME ** These are my STUDENTS not my clients ** 💿 To hear mixing/mastering samples, songs we've Then use a slower, low ratio (2:1 or less) compressor to apply constant soft compression Also use a slow attack time here to add more aggression to the vocal Tonal compression This approach uses a lower ratio and slow attack times to shape the tone of the vocal, as well as controlling dynamics. Like my music is something you would want to listen to a few seconds but turn it off because the vocals sound dead 👨‍🚀 How to COMPRESS vocals with Fruity Limiter Blue Nova 89. Jul 6, 2016 · Solid vocals are the key to pro-level mixes. any cool experiments maybe you guys… I Compress the crap out of rap vocals. Compressing rap vocals requires a basic understanding of how different types of compressors process audio. Elevate your music with expert techniques and tips. Since vocals can differ in quality in recording, getting the levels consistent is a great way to start the mixing process. Learning how to compress vocals effectively allows you to enhance the dynamic range, ensuring that the vocal performance truly shines in any mix. I only use Studio One stock plug-ins to ensure you compress with the Grammy-winning mixer Leslie Brathwaite (Beyoncé) takes you inside the session of Lil Uzi Vert & Pharrell Williams’ “Neon Guts,” sharing his processing techniques for killer hip-hop vocals. The 1U rack-mount front panel of the genuine Distressor is fully redesigned by Jul 16, 2023 · Unlock the secret to pristine vocals with our comprehensive guide on vocal compressor settings. from your be Get your rap vocals to sound their best by following these mixing tips. Start optimizing your sound today! I don't think I have a specific compressor I reach for when doing hip hop/rap, but I do have a couple I reach for in general when doing vocals. In this video tutorial with Czar Smith from the Waves Street Team, you will learn how to compress rap vocals using the CLA-76 and CLA-2A compressor plugins. Jun 28, 2019 · Toronto music producer and engineer 5PiECE shows you how to use a compressor on rap vocals; breaking down what a compressor does, how each setting affects th Feb 2, 2023 · Compressor Settings Threshold Ratio Knee Attack & Release Make-Up Gain Quick guides to compression settings for instruments: Drums Bass Vocals Piano Guitar Master Bus Mastering If you’re reading this article it’s because you’re about to embark on mixing your own vocals. Awesome effect for melodic rap! In this in-depth tutorial, you will learn how to achieve optimal compression on rap vocals using the Waves CLA-2A and CLA-76 Compressor plugins. com and I'mma show you May 24, 2024 · Discover pro vocal mixing secrets using FabFilter plugins. From your comments I take it that you're mixing your own vocals. Read more Dec 28, 2020 · A vocal compression cheat sheet to help you dress to compress. Discover some good compressor settings for vocals to enhance your audio productions and mixes with expert techniques. In rap and hip hop, mostly you’re going for a punchy and aggressive sound. . He will explains how each 3 days ago · 📚 Can't finish your mixes? Here's a FREE mini-course to fix that! 👉 https://2ly. We'll be using multiple compressors to achieve those punchy, in yo face, rap vocals. Nov 30, 2020 · Discover the step-by-step process for mixing vocals using EQ and compression so that you can easily make them sound professional. e Pro tools, Logic, FL studio, Ableton, Cubase, Studio One etc. In this tutorial I will teach you how to adjust your compressor to make the best sounding rap vocals. Get my go-to vocal compression settings, learn the best compressors and nail the tricks for compressing vocals. I wish I could tell you more. I go over setting every parameter of the compressor for vocals! more Oct 17, 2025 · Vocal compression is a piece of cake once you know how to compress vocals in the first place. I record my vocals in Vegas with my effects running so I can monitor as I go. There are multiple ways to add it to your mix, and many musicians and mixing engineers question whether you should compress the vocals during recording. Looking for clear, upfront vocals? Here are the five best vocal compressors VSTs available. Table of Contents The Basic Purpose of Compression on […] May 20, 2019 · Using these 9 powerful parallel compression tips, you'll discover the secret to getting vocals to sit in the mix yet still capture attention. I use two compressor, one knocking off about 3-6db with a medium attack and release and another knocking off about 10 db with a fast attack/fast release. com In this blog post, I'm going to help you come up with the best rap vocal compression settings all the time. Take Notes Guru is a legend! For more mixing tips by the pros, please like Mar 13, 2023 · Additionally, rap vocals are in most cases supposed to be more aggressive and upfront than singing vocals. When it comes to mixing rap vocals, it’s crucial to get the […] Grammy Award winning mixing Engineer. Feb 13, 2018 · So you’ve recorded, edited and mixed some killer vocals and now you’re ready to compress the song to make it sound professional. Mar 6, 2024 · Use the FET compressor when you mix vocals for genres like hip-hop, reggaeton, and trap to make the vocal performance feel more percussive. The blue-stripe Is parallel compression necessary in mixing rap and pop vocals? Personally, i was able to get desirable results with my vocal mix without using parallel compression. With that in mind, I’ve put together this rap vocal compression settings cheat sheet which covers the best settings to use in your next rap mix. This preserves the attack of the performance, while only compressing the softer parts of the vocals. Other half the time I need to get a bit more calculating with the settings. Right now for compression I am just using the vocal preset on the track compressor. So the main problem is: when I am "compressing" vocal with it, it sounds really loud, distorted and you can easily hear my room (when without using THIS compressor you can only hear my voice which is full and that's all) using this compressor, my mix sounds awful and it sounds like i'd be recording my TIMELINE CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 00:36 Before You Start Mixing 01:17 Setting Levels 04:48 Mastering Limiter 05:26 Compressing Rap Vocals 08:08 Shaping the Tone of the Rap Vocals 10:29 Finalizing Apr 3, 2017 · Do you wanna know the best starting compression settings for vocals. Jun 13, 2024 · Like most genres, rap vocals are the focal point of the mix. Links⚡⚡ Purchase the Full FLP Here!:⚡ Purchase FL Studio FLP's and Presets: https://sellfy. Sep 21, 2022 · The best compressor VST for vocals: Softube's Tube-Tech CL 1B is the top rated, but FabFilter Pro-C2 is the most popular option out there. Apr 8, 2023 · Master vocal compression to give vocals clarity and impact. Hey all I was hoping I could get some pointers on compressing vocals for rap with Vegas. Young Guru explains his process compression rap vocal using the LA-2A compressor. I listen to the sound of the vocal, listen to the context of the mix, and then I adjust accordingly. Aug 2, 2024 · This vocal compression settings live cheat sheet covers the best settings to balance dynamic control and avoiding artifacts in a live vocal. Learn how to use a compressor on vocals effectively. Oct 17, 2025 · The best vocal compressor for voice, bass, drums, and any other audio signal is the topmost studio-quality one you can afford. Release settings around 100 to 200 milliseconds can maintain consistent sound. If you’re going to cut then use the eq 1st and if you’re going to boost then use the compressor 1st. Great for busy sessions where there’s little time for manual adjustments, offering rapid but detailed compression suited to vocals with varying dynamics. I’m sure I’m not fully understanding what attack and release do Why does release matter? Would I ever use a < 15ms attack for a rap vocal? Does the attack and release effect frequencies? ie: if I wanted to bring out Mid to High range using compression. However, it still appears that I can never finish the vocal mix in one session because it always sounds amateur. One to control the transients and the other for tonal balance. In this free compression cheat sheet, discover the perfect settings to use while applying compression on drums, bass, guitar, vocals, and more. Dec 9, 2024 · This overview on how to mix rap vocals shows how to use EQ and compression to bring power and punch to the vocal while keeping it up front. Advice on Low End cleaning. The behaviour of a compressor is defined by a number of factors but it is safe to say that the gain reduction cell is what drives the compressor and different gain reduction technologies result in different behavioural characteristics. Well you came to the right video. Vocal compression might seem like a dark art if you’re new to mixing, and it can take a while to fully understand compression and hear what it’s doing. Mastering vocal compression is a key skill in music production that can bring a new level of control and consistency to your vocal tracks. If you set a 3:1 ratio, with a mid-to-slow attack time and a relatively fast release, the compressor will let the transients pass and even up the overall audio signal. CLA-2A: http: Mar 27, 2023 · An article with tips and techniques for compressing vocals in a mix.