By Jeevan T Joy

VST Stands for virtual studio technology. They are considered as the most essential part of modern day music production. VST plugins are software instruments or effects that can be use in your digital audio workstation(DAW). The emulate hardware synthesizers, effects processors, samplers, thus allowing the music producers to access wide variety of sounds and effects directly within the DAW. Some of the VST s that are available in the market , have a very similar(almost equal) emulation to the famous hardware’s that are being used  by music production community. VST enables the seamless selection  of sounds.

VST plugin comes in various forms like instruments , effects, and utilities.

VST instruments Emulate synthesizers, pianos, drums, ethnic instruments, woodwinds, strings and other musical instruments. They generate sounds that can be played via MIDI(Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controllers or programmed in the DAW.

Synthesizers that are both analog and digital are emulated through VSTs and can produce wide range of sounds. Those sounds including leads , pads, basses, drums and more. There is a wider array of VST instruments that are topping the music industry currently. Major Companies  that are producing Virtual synthesizers are ARTURIA, SPECTRASONIC, SPITFIRE, ROLAND, ReFX, Xfer, U-he ,Synapse, sonic academy and many more (Thank You guys J)

Samplers  allows the users to load multiple sounds, such as individual notes from real instruments, drums or ambient noises and manipulate them according to the users wish. They offer the ability to play these sounds across the keyboard in different pitch. Almost all the DAWs have dedicated sampler plugin and there so many other standalone plugins as well. Native instrument Battery is an example for standalone sampler.

Pianos and keyboards  VST instruments often include high quality sound with real  like texture. They provide the most realistic and expressive keyboard sounds.

Orchestral and ensemble instruments focus on emulating sounds that allows the composers to create real  and authentic orchestral arrangements.

Some of the sounds that are produced by these plugins provides surreal string emulations , without barring the dynamics and tightness. These plugin provides opitions for controlling the dynamics using  modulators and other fader that are available in your MIDI controller.

Specialized Instruments are the vst instruments caters specific needs , such as creating unique and unconventional sounds. These instruments let the users to use a real instrument as pads, risers, effects, drones etc. These are also used for sound designing as well.

Effects plugins in music production are tools used within a digital audio workstation (DAW) to modify, enhance, or shape the audio signal. They can drastically alter the sound of individual tracks or the overall mix, allowing producers to achieve specific sonic characteristics and create professional-quality music. Here are some common types of effects plugins.

• Equalizers(EQ)
• Compressors
• Reverbs
• Delays
• Modulation Effects
• Distortion/overdrive
• Gating and expansion
• Pitch and time-based Effects

Effects plugins are crucial in the mixing and post-production stages, allowing producers to shape individual tracks, create a cohesive mix, and add creative elements to the music. Using a combination of these plugins with finesse and creativity can significantly enhance the overall quality and character of a musical piece.

Utility plugins in music production refer to a diverse range of tools designed to perform specific functions that aid in the production, mixing, and mastering process within a digital audio workstation (DAW). These plugins may not directly alter the sound like effects plugins but serve various utility purposes.

• Metering tools
• Spectrum analysers
• Analysis plugins
• Time and phase alignment tools
• Automation tools
• Pitch correction and tuning tools
• Noise reduction and restoration tools etc

are some of the major utility plugins that are commonly used. Utility plugins play a crucial role in streamlining workflow, optimizing audio quality, and addressing technical aspects of music production. While they might not directly contribute to the creative aspect of music-making, they are essential for achieving a polished and professional end product.

VSTs are highly versatile and customizable, offering a vast range of sounds and effects. They can be third-party plugins developed by various companies or individuals, as well as those provided by the DAW itself.

VSTs are a cornerstone of modern music production, providing access to a vast sonic palette and allowing producers to create professional-quality music entirely within a digital environment.

Personal note:- Although VST provides this many advantages and possibilities, nothing can beat the authenticity and affection towards hardware’s. They have a special place in the evolution of music (I know they are costly, but still).

HAPPY MUSIC MAKING !

By Jeevan T Joy

The world of music production is both exciting and challenging. Hence this opens up a lot of space for experimentations. Here are some general dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

Dos:

• Plan and Organize: Before diving in, have a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Organize your workflow, files, materials and ideas to streamline the production process.
• Learn your tools: Music production deals with a lot of Hardware’s and software’s. Thus it is essential to  Understand your software and hardware inside out. Knowing the capabilities of your tool will help you attain desired result.

• Trust your ears: The identity of your music is the way it actually sounds. While technical knowledge is essential, sometimes, what matters most is how the music sounds. Trust your instincts and what sounds good to you.

• Practise regularly: Just like any other skill, music production requires practise. Consistent is key to improvement. Spend enough time every week on polishing your production skill.

• Use references: Try to listen to professional sound tracks before starting your project. Make sure you are listening to the same genre as your work. It helps you understand the standard, sound, materials, and provides inspirations.

• Collaborate: Working with other fellow musicians, will organically enhance your music and soon your skillset as well. Working with others can bring fresh perspective and ideas to your music.

Don’ts:

• Rush the process: Take your time with each step of the production. Rushing through your work will lead to oversights and compromises in quality.

• Overload the mix: As a music producer you always wanted to add lot of sounds to your music, and sometimes this results in cluttering your mix. Avoid cluttering your mix with too many elements. Music feels ear candy ,whenever they are in a clean mix. Make sure your sounds have a purpose and contribute it in such way that it enhances the melody.

• Over-Processing: While effects and processing can enhance your music, too much can make it sound artificial or muddy. Use effects purposefully and sparingly.

• Forgetting the importance of mix and mastering: Mixing and mastering plays an important role in perfecting your track. And a great mix and master can make or break the track. Do not underestimate the significance of this stage in production.

• Forget to take breaks: Music production can be immersive and sometimes you will work on a track for hours. But it is crucial to take breaks to rest your ears and prevent fatigue. This will also let you to judge your sound properly as you are starting again with a fresh ear and mindset.

• Keeping health secondary: Just like any other job, your music have a deep connection with your health. Make sure you have an ergonomic sitting posture. The chairs you are sitting is almost as important as the plugins and sounds you are using. Keep a healthy diet and make sure to eat properly on time. Keep yourself hydrated. And keep a positive Frame of mind.

• Working overnight vigorously : Many music creators find the late hours conducive to creativity. Overnight work in music production often happens when artists, producers, or engineers are deep into the creative process or working against tight deadlines. During these hours, there might be fewer interruptions from phone calls, emails, or other daily responsibilities. Plus, the stillness of the night can inspire a different kind of creative energy. But is it healthy ? Working overnight can also be physically taxing and can potentially disrupt a person’s natural sleep patterns. There is going to be a serious hit on physical and mental health due to irregular hours. It is crucial to find a balance and take care of your health while working late hours. Sometimes the late hour works demands late hour craving , which eventually end up in unhealthy diets as well. No matter what the deadlines are keep your priorities straight and give yourself a good sleep. Ultimately, it often comes down to personal preference and the demands of the project at hand.

• Be Afraid of Mistakes: Mistakes are part of the creative process. Embrace them and use them as learning opportunities

Remember these are just guidelines not rules. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can navigate the music production process more effectively while improving your skills. Experimentations and personal experiences often leads to the most innovative and interesting music.

HAPPY MUSIC MAKING !

By Amit Sachdeva, Senior Sound Engineer, Musicloudstudio & Technology

Unveiling the secrets of Audio Compression (Part 2)

Introduction: Welcome back to the AUDIO COMPRESSION SECRETS Series! In this segment, we will delve into the various types of compressors and their specific applications. (If you haven’t already, check out Part 1 to grasp the fundamental principles of audio compression.)

Understanding Compressor Types: You’ve probably encountered terms like VCA, FET, Opto, etc. But what do these terms really mean? Let’s explore:

1. FET (Field Effect Transistor) Compressor:
   • Recognized for its rapid attack time.
   • Yields pleasing distortion.
   • Ideal for achieving a tight mix.
   • Adds an energetic texture and punch.
2. VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) Compressor:
   • Highly transparent and flexible.
   • Offers a rich tone.
   • Best suited for situations requiring tight control over dynamics.
   • Produces a polished sound.
3. Variable Mu/Tube Compressor:
   • Slow attack of the tubes preserves transients.
   • Applied to groups/subgroups to unify tracks.
   • Introduces smoothness and warmth.
4. Optical Compressor:
   • The audio signal controls the light source, modulating the resistance of the LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) to compress the signal.
   • Yields a clean, smooth-sounding signal.
   • Adds a pleasing analog touch to the signal.

Choosing the Right Compressor: Each type of compressor is constructed with a specific set of electronic components that alter the sonic quality of the audio signal. This variety provides engineers with the flexibility to select compressors tailored to the sonic capabilities needed for an exceptional mix.

Conclusion: Depending on the circuitry employed, the output of each compressor may have a slightly different sound. Therefore, the careful selection of the right compressor for each mix application is crucial for achieving optimal results.

By Amit Sachdeva, Senior Sound Engineer, Musicloudstudio & Technology

We shall discuss in detail the types of compressor and color in Part 2 of this blog.

How does a compressor contribute to achieving an outstanding mix? Let’s delve into the fundamentals.

Compressors primarily serve the role of managing the dynamic range of an audio signal, which involves controlling the signal level beyond a specified threshold. To put it simply, dynamic range refers to the difference between the loudest and softest parts of an audio signal.

Nearly all compressors you encounter will feature these essential parameters:

• Threshold
• Ratio
• Attack Time
• Release Time
• Knee
• Make-up Gain

Threshold: This represents the signal level (in dB) above which the compressor starts to affect the audio.

Ratio: It dictates the degree of compression applied to the signal once it surpasses the threshold. For instance, a ratio of 10:1 implies that for every 10 dB above the threshold, the compressor permits only 1 dB.

Attack Time: This determines how swiftly the compressor responds to the signal after it crosses the threshold.

Release Time: It governs the duration it takes for the compressor to cease its compression effect after the signal drops below the threshold.

Knee: This parameter influences the smoothness of the compression application.

Make-up Gain: It elevates the signal level to compensate for the reduction caused by compression.

Each compressor operates with its distinct internal circuitry, which imparts a unique sonic character to it. Consequently, a single compressor may not be suitable for all your applications. Hence, audio compressors are used not only to manage dynamic range but also to imbue the audio signal with a particular color or character by simply passing it through (with or without compression).

In Part 2 of this blog, we will delve into different types of compressors and their tonal characteristics.

By Amit Sachdeva, Senior Sound Engineer @ Musicloudstudio & Technology

With the development of digital technology over the last few decades, the art of sound recording has undergone a revolutionary upheaval. Digital Sound Recording Technology has brought drastic changes in the way we capture, manipulate, explore, and experience sound.

Digital sound recording began its journey in the 1970s when early digital audio technologies emerged. The first commercially available digital audio recording system, the Sound stream, was introduced in 1977. This innovation utilized a digital tape recorder and marked a significant change from conventional analog recording methods and techniques.

Benefits of Digital Recording:

• Digital sound recording offers various advantages over its analog counterpart. It provides superior audio fidelity, capturing sound with remarkable precision and clarity. Digital recordings can be copied, edited, and duplicated and shared without any loss in quality. Additionally, digital formats allow for easy storage, manipulation, and distribution of audio files, simplifying the entire workflow of sound production.
• Higher sampling rate can be achieved in Analog to digital or digital to analog conversion of the audio signal, resulting a better-quality audio.
• One of the biggest advantages of DSRT is multitrack recording. Multitrack recording has eased the life of sound engineers and producers with the effortless accessibility to record multiple tracks, cut, copy, paste etc., at the same time, precisely.
• Modern technology has offered producers, engineers, and artists a vast array of digital effect plugins, VST’s which can reproduce sound of any instrument without having to play it live. Thus, pushing the boundaries of creativity and sonic exploration.
• A recent advancement in digital sound recording technology is the ability to collaborate with artists in any other part of the world and record in the cloud. With high-speed internet connections and cloud-based platforms, musicians and producers can work together in real-time, regardless of their physical location. This capability has revolutionized the way artists collaborate and has opened doors for global music production, where talents from different corners of the world can come together effortlessly.

At Musicloudstudio & Technology, our sole intention is to deliver industry standard sound quality, free from any flaw during and after the production process.