A vocal chain refers to the series of audio processing steps applied to a vocal recording to shape its sound and ensure it fits well within a mix. A typical vocal chain will consist of both hardware and software components, but for simplicity, we’ll focus on the main components often used in a digital audio workstation (DAW) setup. Here’s a breakdown of a standard vocal chain:
1. Microphone (Input)
- Type: Dynamic, Condenser, Ribbon, etc.
- The microphone choice will influence the tonal characteristics of the vocal sound. Condenser mics are popular for their sensitivity and wide frequency response, often used in studio settings.
2. Preamplifier (Gain Stage)
- Purpose: Boosts the microphone signal to a usable level.
- A clean, transparent preamp is crucial to avoid introducing unwanted noise or distortion. Some prefer tube preamps for added warmth, or solid-state preamps for clarity.
3. Compressor
-
Purpose: Controls the dynamic range of the vocal.
-
A compressor reduces the volume of the loudest parts of the vocal and raises quieter sections, creating a more even performance. Popular settings include:
- Threshold: When compression kicks in.
- Ratio: How much compression occurs.
- Attack/Release: How quickly the compressor responds.
- Make-up gain: To compensate for any reduction in volume.
-
Example: Classic vocal compression settings are around 3:1 to 5:1 ratio with moderate attack and release times.
4. Equalizer (EQ)
-
Purpose: Shapes the tonal balance of the vocal.
-
EQ can help carve out space in the mix and remove unwanted frequencies. Common moves include:
- Cutting low-end rumble (e.g., below 80Hz).
- Attenuating boxiness (around 200-400Hz).
- Adding air or brightness (around 8kHz-12kHz).
-
Types of EQ: Parametric EQ, graphical EQ, or dynamic EQ (which adjusts based on the vocal performance).
5. De-esser
- Purpose: Reduces harsh sibilance (excessive "s" or "sh" sounds).
- A de-esser is a dynamic EQ that specifically targets and compresses high frequencies (often around 5-10kHz), preventing them from becoming piercing or uncomfortable.
6. Reverb and Delay
- Purpose: Adds space and depth to the vocal.
- Reverb simulates the acoustics of different environments, while delay creates echoes or repeats of the vocal signal. The settings will vary depending on the style of the song.
- Reverb Types: Plate, hall, room, chamber, etc.
- Delay Types: Slapback, stereo delay, echo, etc.
7. Saturation/Distortion (Optional)
- Purpose: Adds warmth, character, or edge to the vocal.
- Mild saturation or distortion can make vocals sound more exciting and “alive” by adding harmonic content. This can be done with analog emulation plugins or using dedicated saturation effects.
8. Chorus/Modulation (Optional)
- Purpose: Adds movement or thickens the vocal sound.
- A chorus effect can create a "doubling" effect by modulating the pitch slightly. This is often used on backing vocals or to add texture to the main vocal.
9. Automation
- Purpose: Refines the performance.
- Automation allows for dynamic control over various parameters (like volume, EQ, reverb, etc.) throughout the track. For example, you might automate reverb levels during the chorus or adjust the volume of certain words for clarity.
10. Limiter (Final Stage)
- Purpose: Prevents clipping and ensures the vocal stays within the desired loudness range.
- Often used in the final stage of the chain to ensure the vocal signal doesn’t peak above 0dB, potentially causing distortion.
Example Vocal Chain (DAW Setup):
- Mic Preamp (if hardware is involved)
- Compressor (to even out dynamics)
- EQ (to balance tonal frequencies)
- De-esser (to tame harsh sibilance)
- Saturation (optional, for warmth or color)
- Reverb/Delay (to add space and depth)
- Limiter (to control peaks)
The order of effects can sometimes vary depending on the desired outcome, but the general approach would follow this structure.
By the Stealify Team!
Check out our MIDI Pack collection to help you PRODUCE HIT SONGS FASTER, EASIER & BREAK THROUGH WRITERS BLOCK! Simply drag and drop!