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Drum Bus Mixing

IN LOGIC PRO

Chain Order (Start to Finish)

  1. Gain

    Set healthy peaks around -12 dBFS.

  2. Surgical EQ

    Remove mud and harsh resonances.

  3. Compression

    Control dynamics and add consistency.

  4. Tone EQ

    Shape musical balance and clarity.

  5. Saturation

    Add harmonics and perceived density.

  6. Space

    Use subtle reverb or delay if needed.

  7. Limiting

    Catch peaks and cap final level.

EQ, Compression, and Metering

EQ Targets

  • High-pass where possible
  • Cut boxiness first
  • Boost for intent, not volume

Compression Targets

  • Ratio 3:1 to 4:1
  • Attack 10-30 ms
  • Aim 2-6 dB gain reduction

Metering Targets

  • Keep peaks below -6 dBFS
  • Watch low-end buildup
  • Prioritize Glue and impact clarity

EQ Moves

RangeMoveWhy
20-30 HzHigh-pass filterRemove unnecessary sub
200-350 HzLow-mid cutClean up mud and boxiness
400-600 HzMud cutControl congestion
2-5 kHzPresenceAdd attack and detail
8-12 kHzHigh shelfAdd air and sparkle

Plugin Recommendations

Bus Compression

  • Drum Bus Mixing Waves SSL G-Master screenshotWaves SSL G-Master
  • Drum Bus Mixing UAD SSL 4000 G screenshotUAD SSL 4000 G

Saturation

  • Drum Bus Mixing Waves J37 screenshotWaves J37
  • Drum Bus Mixing FabFilter Saturn 2 screenshotFabFilter Saturn 2

Transient

  • Drum Bus Mixing Waves Trans-X screenshotWaves Trans-X
  • FabFilter Pro-DS for control

Reverb

  • Drum Bus Mixing Waves Abbey Road TG screenshotWaves Abbey Road TG
  • Drum Bus Mixing Pro-R 2 screenshotPro-R 2

Quick Reminders

  • Blend parallel compression for weight.
  • Preserve attack on snare and kick.
  • Bus EQ should be broad and musical.
  • Compare bypass at matched loudness.