PRODUCTION TECHNIQUE · KNOWLEDGE GUIDE
Sidechain
Using the level of one signal to control compression applied to another.
- Primary purpose
- To clear space for a kick drum or create a rhythmic pumping effect.
- Common contexts
- 2 genres
PURPOSE
Why is it used?
To clear space for a kick drum or create a rhythmic pumping effect.
WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE
What does it sound like?
Pads or bass often dip when the kick arrives and then return at a regular speed.
How can a beginner recognize it?
01
A pad dipping in time with the kick
02
How release speed changes the groove
03
The difference between performed dynamics and mechanical pumping
IN CONTEXT
Common genre contexts
These genres are common contexts, not proof that every recording in the genre uses this technique.
How examples are selected
A track is labelled as an example only when a producer interview, engineering document or reliable professional analysis explicitly supports the connection. Recordings without enough evidence are not listed here.
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