Automation isn’t just about fading a track in and out or nudging the vocal level up during the chorus. When used creatively, automation can turn a good mix into a great one, adding depth, emotion, and movement that makes the listener sit up and take notice. But to really harness its power, you’ve got to think beyond the basics and get into the nitty-gritty of advanced automation techniques.
One of the first things you can do to take your automation game to the next level is to think about automation as a storytelling tool. Every mix tells a story, and automation is how you guide the listener through that narrative. For instance, imagine you’ve got a verse that’s building up to a big, explosive chorus. Instead of just pushing the volume up on the chorus, why not use automation to slowly increase the reverb send on the snare or the vocal as the verse progresses? This creates a sense of space and anticipation, so when that chorus hits, it feels even bigger and more impactful.
Don’t just automate volume—get creative with effects parameters. For example, you can automate the cutoff frequency on a synth’s filter to create a sweeping effect that evolves throughout the track. Or, automate the decay time on a reverb to make certain sections feel more spacious or intimate. This kind of subtle movement can add a level of sophistication to your mix that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.
Another pro move is to use automation to create contrast between different sections of a song. For example, let’s say you’ve got a bridge that needs to feel darker and more intense than the rest of the track. You could automate a low-pass filter to gradually roll off the high frequencies, making the bridge feel more closed-in and claustrophobic. Then, when the track returns to the chorus, open that filter back up to release the tension and bring the brightness back into the mix. This kind of dynamic shift can make a track feel more alive and emotionally resonant.
Vocal rides are another area where advanced automation can make a huge difference. Instead of just setting a static level for the vocal and calling it a day, take the time to ride the vocal fader throughout the entire track. Bring the vocal up during quieter sections, tuck it in during louder moments, and emphasize key phrases or words to really make them pop. This kind of detailed automation work can make the difference between a vocal that sounds static and one that feels like it’s breathing with the music.
And let’s not forget about automating plugin parameters. Imagine you’ve got a guitar solo that needs to start off clean and gradually get more aggressive. Instead of manually adjusting the distortion plugin as you record, automate the gain or drive parameter to increase throughout the solo. This gives you precise control and allows you to create a performance that evolves in real-time.
Finally, consider using automation creatively to create unexpected moments in your mix. Maybe automate a delay send on a snare hit to suddenly throw it into a wide stereo delay, or automate the pitch of a background vocal for a surreal, dreamy effect. These little touches can add a unique flavor to your mix and make it stand out in a crowded field.
In short, advanced automation isn’t just about making things louder or softer—it’s about crafting a dynamic, evolving mix that takes the listener on a journey. Master these techniques, and you’ll be able to create mixes that not only sound great but feel alive with energy and emotion.
