Sidechain compression is an advanced mixing technique where the volume of one audio track is automatically reduced (“ducked”) by the signal level of an entirely different audio track. Instead of a compressor reacting to its own audio channel, it uses an external trigger to control gain reduction. Core Mechanics of Sidechaining
To understand the core workflow, you must separate the target track from the trigger source:
The Target Track: The instrument or channel you want to turn down (e.g., bass guitar, pad synth, background vocals).
The Trigger Track (Key Input): The external audio source driving the compressor’s behavior (e.g., kick drum, lead vocal).
Internal vs. External: Internal sidechaining filters frequencies within the same track so the compressor ignores deep bass. External sidechaining routes a completely separate signal into the detector circuit. Essential Technical Settings
Setting up a sidechain compressor requires adjusting specific controls depending on your mixing goals: The Ultimate Guide to Sidechain Compression in Ableton Live
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