Noise GATE in CUBASE 9.5 EXPLAINED - mixdown.online

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through using the Noise Gate plugin in Cubase 9.5. Whether you're mixing tracks or looking to clean up drum sounds, understanding how to effectively utilize this tool is essential. We'll cover the key settings and provide practical examples to enhance your mixing skills.

Step 1: Access the Noise Gate Plugin

• Open your Cubase project where you want to apply the Noise Gate.
• Navigate to the mixer by selecting "F3" or clicking on "Mixer" from the menu.
• Locate the track you wish to apply the Noise Gate to (e.g., drums).
• Click on the "Insert" section of the selected track.
• From the dropdown menu, find and select "Dynamics" and then choose "Noise Gate."

Step 2: Understand the Noise Gate Controls

Familiarize yourself with the following key controls on the Noise Gate plugin:

• Threshold: Sets the level at which the gate opens. Sounds above this level are allowed through.
• Ratio: Determines how much the signal is reduced once it crosses the threshold.
• Attack: Controls how quickly the gate opens after the signal exceeds the threshold. A fast attack is good for percussive sounds.
• Release: Sets how quickly the gate closes after the signal falls below the threshold. Adjust according to the desired sustain.
• Hold: Keeps the gate open for a specified time after the signal drops below the threshold.

Step 3: Setting the Threshold

• Start by adjusting the Threshold slider while monitoring your audio.
• Increase or decrease the threshold until you only hear the desired sounds (e.g., the snare or kick) while unwanted noise is filtered out.

Step 4: Fine-tuning Attack and Release

• Adjust the Attack setting to control how quickly the sound comes through after hitting the threshold.
• Experiment with the Release time to ensure that the sound tails off naturally without cutting off abruptly.
• A good starting point for drums might be a fast attack and a medium release.

Step 5: Utilizing Hold for Better Control

• Use the Hold parameter to keep the gate open for a short duration after the initial sound has passed.
• This is particularly useful for percussive instruments to retain a natural sound without abrupt cuts.

Step 6: Listen and Adjust

• Play your track and listen critically to how the Noise Gate is affecting the sound.
• Make incremental adjustments to the Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, and Hold settings.
• Pay attention to how the dynamics of the track change and ensure the final mix sounds balanced.

Conclusion

The Noise Gate is a powerful tool for cleaning up your mixes in Cubase 9.5. By understanding and adjusting the key parameters—Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, and Hold—you can enhance the clarity and quality of your audio tracks. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance for your sound. For further mixing techniques and tips, consider exploring additional tutorials or resources available online.