Implementing effective sidechaining in FL Studio

Sidechaining is a great technique that helps you harmoniously combine different elements of your tracks in music production. This method can be particularly useful when combining kick-based beats and melodies. In this guide, I will show you how to effectively implement sidechaining in FL Studio and give you valuable tips on how to get the most out of your music production.

Key insights

• Sidechaining allows an audio signal from a kick drum to influence the volume of another signal, such as a piano.
• There are two common methods to implement sidechaining in FL Studio: using a plugin like Kickstart and using a compressor like the Fruity Limiter.
• The efficient adjustment of attack, release, ratio, and threshold is crucial for the desired result.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Basics of Sidechaining

Before you start with the practical part, it is important to understand how sidechaining works. In this technique, the kick drum influences the volume of another instrument to create more space and clarity in the mix. For example, the piano can become quieter when the kick drums play, which leads to a groovy effect.

Method 1: Using a Plugin (Kickstart)

1. Open FL Studio and load your project. Switch to the mixer and select the channel that contains the instrumental (for example, the piano) you want to edit. To realize sidechaining, add the plugin "Kickstart."

1. In Kickstart, you can already start with a default setting. This displays a waveform that reflects the behavior of the audio signal. Make sure the volume drop occurs at the points where the kick plays.

1. Now play the project and pay attention to the effect of the sidechaining. Optimize the parameters for the desired effect.

Method 2: Using the Fruity Limiter

1. Next, I will show you the method with the Fruity Limiter. For this, we go back to the channel of the instrument that needs to be edited and select a free effect slot for the Fruity Limiter. Make sure the limiter is set to compressor mode.

1. To activate the compressor with the kick drum, we need to define the source for it. Right-click on the corresponding signal in the mixer and select "Sidechain to this Track."

1. The Fruity Limiter now shows the option of which trigger we want to use – in this case, the kick. Select the kick drum as a trigger so that the compressor reacts when the kick plays.

Adjusting Settings

1. Now you need to adjust the values for attack, release, ratio, and threshold. A good starting point is a ratio of 4:1 and the threshold should be gradually lowered until you reach the desired volume.

1. Optimize the attack and release times. The attack time should generally be very short so that the compressor reacts immediately when the kick comes. For the release time, it's advisable to work a bit slower to achieve a pleasant sound transition.

Checking the Results

1. Now compare the different effects by playing the project with and without the sidechaining. Also, experiment with the settings until you achieve the hit that suits your taste.

Conclusion of Both Methods

Both methods have their advantages. Kickstart offers a faster and simpler way without deep compression settings, while the Fruity Limiter gives you more control over the individual parameters. Experiment with both to find out what best fits your style.

Summary – Sidechaining in Music Production with FL Studio

In this guide, you learned how to apply sidechaining in FL Studio. You found that targeted compression and volume adjustments are crucial for your track's mix. Both the use of Kickstart and the setup of a compressor can help you achieve the desired groove.