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Vocal 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 Cohesion clarity

EQ Moves

RangeMoveWhy
80-120 HzHigh-pass filterRemove unnecessary rumble
200-350 HzLow-mid cutClear mud and clutter
400-800 HzLow-mid controlReduce honk and congestion
2-5 kHzPresenceIncrease clarity and diction
12-16 kHzHigh shelfAdd shine and openness

Plugin Recommendations

EQ

  • Vocal Bus Mixing Waves F6 screenshotWaves F6
  • Vocal Bus Mixing FabFilter Pro-Q 3 screenshotFabFilter Pro-Q 3

Compression

  • Vocal Bus Mixing Waves SSL G-Master screenshotWaves SSL G-Master
  • Vocal Bus Mixing CLA-76 screenshotCLA-76

Saturation

  • Vocal Bus Mixing Waves J37 screenshotWaves J37
  • Vocal Bus Mixing AMPX ATR-102 screenshotAMPX ATR-102

De-essing

  • Vocal Bus Mixing Sibilance screenshotSibilance
  • Vocal Bus Mixing Pro-DS screenshotPro-DS

Quick Reminders

  • Small bus reductions are often enough.
  • Use reverb send as glue, not distance.
  • Keep lead vocal centered and upfront.
  • Automate emotional moments by phrase.