Mastering Tutorial: M-S Compression in Mastering with the bx_XL V2 Compressor in WaveLab 7
From http://www.productormusical.es, we bring you our first mastering tutorial. In this video, we'll explain how to use an M-S compressor, specifically the bx_XL from Brainworx (Plugin Alliance).
For those unfamiliar with M-S compression, it involves separating the mono portion of the signal from the stereo portion. This allows us, for example, to EQ the mono portion separately, or, in the case of this tutorial, to compress the mono portion (containing the kick drum, bass, vocals, etc.) separately from the stereo portion, which contains secondary elements like guitars. This gives us greater control over our mix during mastering and allows us to achieve more impactful compression and a bit more volume in our mix.
This plugin is designed to be an "all-in-one": It features an M-S compressor, limiter, aural exciter, balance correction, and stereo depth adjustment. Even so, it's advisable to use it as part of a chain along with a conventional multiband compressor and a limiter. It's worth noting that bx_XL is also a multiband compressor, as it has three bands: one for mono bass, another for mono mid-high frequencies, and a final one for stereo (the sides). But as I mentioned earlier, it's perhaps not as clean as other multiband compressors and adds some distortion when pushed too far, which can be unpleasant. Therefore, I recommend using it for a gentle initial compression to add some punch and warmth to the mix, right after the equalizer and before the multiband compressor.
In the tutorial, we explain all the parts of the bx_XL plugin, how to use it, and how to get the most out of it. You can download a demo of the plugin here:
http://www.productormusical.es/tutori...
This is a full demo with a 14-day trial period. I hope you enjoy the tutorial!
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