Gain Staging: A Complete Guide to Audio Level Management and Compression

Overview

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Learn essential gain staging techniques in this 22-minute video tutorial that explores the fundamentals of audio signal management in music production. Master the proper handling of analog inputs, understand the nuances of digital clipping in DAWs, and discover how saturation affects plugins. Explore practical applications of compression, clip gain automation, and input gain controls while understanding their impact on your mix. Delve into comprehensive level matching techniques, including auto gain functionality with plugins, and understand when gain staging is crucial for your workflow. Perfect for music producers and audio engineers looking to enhance their mixing skills and achieve professional-quality sound in their productions.

Syllabus

Intro
What Is Gain Staging?
Gain Staging Analog Inputs Correctly
Why "Clipping" Doesn't Exist In Your DAW
When "Clipping" Does Exist In Your DAW
Why Saturation Happens In Plugins
Gain Staging With Compression
Using Clip Gain Automation
Using Input Gain Knobs
Why Gain Into Compression Matters
Clip Gain Automation To Smooth Out Compression
Gain Staging Throughout a Mix
When Gain Staging Matters
Level Matching For Gain Staging
Auto Gain With Plugins
Why Level Matching May Make or Break Your Mix
Final Thoughts On Gain Staging
Outro