CUBASE 10 - External Sidechain for Dynamic EQ with the Fabfilter ProQ3

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to activate the External Sidechain feature for Dynamic EQ using the Fabfilter Pro-Q3 within Cubase 10. This technique is particularly useful for achieving a tighter low end when working with large synth bass sounds. Whether you're mixing music or enhancing audio tracks, mastering this process can elevate your production quality.

Step 1: Setting Up the Pro-Q3 Plugin

• Open your Cubase project and insert the Fabfilter Pro-Q3 plugin on the audio track you want to process.
• Click on the “Side Chain” button within the Pro-Q3 interface to enable the sidechain functionality.
• If you don’t see the Side Chain option, ensure that you have the latest version of the plugin installed.

Step 2: Configuring the External Sidechain in Cubase

• In your Cubase mixer, locate the track that will send the signal to the Pro-Q3's sidechain.
• Click on the "Sends" section of that track, and choose an empty send slot.
• Assign the send to the Pro-Q3 sidechain input by selecting it from the dropdown menu.
• Adjust the send level to ensure that the signal is strong enough for the Pro-Q3 to respond effectively.

Step 3: Adjusting the Settings in Pro-Q3

• Return to the Pro-Q3 plugin interface.
• Select the band you want to apply dynamic EQ to, and set the threshold to determine when the EQ will react based on the sidechain input.
• Fine-tune the frequency, Q factor, and gain settings to achieve the desired tonal balance while ensuring that the low end is tight and controlled.
• Use the "Listen" feature to isolate the sidechain signal, allowing you to hear how it interacts with the main track.

Step 4: Fine-Tuning Your Mix

• Play back your track and observe how the EQ responds to the sidechain input.
• Make small adjustments to the sidechain settings for optimal results, focusing on achieving a clearer low end without losing the fullness of the synth bass.
• Experiment with different frequencies and Q settings to find the best fit for your mix.

Practical Tips

• Use a low-pass filter on the sidechain input to focus the dynamic EQ effect on the low frequencies.
• Consider using a compressor before the Pro-Q3 to further tighten the low end.
• Regularly bypass the Pro-Q3 to compare the processed and unprocessed sounds to ensure the mix remains balanced.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the External Sidechain feature in the Fabfilter Pro-Q3 to enhance your mixes in Cubase 10. This technique not only helps in managing low-end frequencies but also adds a professional touch to your audio productions. Experiment with different settings and combinations to discover what works best for your specific projects. Happy mixing!