How To Setup & Use Parallel Compression in Reaper DAW

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up and using parallel compression in Reaper DAW. Parallel compression is a powerful mixing technique that enhances the sound of individual tracks without losing their natural dynamics. By the end of this guide, you'll understand how to create a parallel compression track, apply compression, and mix it effectively with your original sound.

Step 1: Create a Parallel Compression Track

• Open Reaper and start a new project.
• Click on Track in the menu and select Insert New Track to create a blank track.
• Expand the new track for better visibility.
• Name this track (e.g., "Kick Compression") to keep your project organized.

Step 2: Route Your Kick Drum to the Compression Track

• Locate the I/O button on the kick drum track in either the mixer or track control panel.
• Click the I/O button to open the routing options.
• Drag the routing output (indicated by a jack symbol) from the kick drum track to the newly created compression track.
• Choose the appropriate routing type (Post-fader, Post-pan, etc.) based on your needs. For parallel compression, Post-fader is commonly used.

Step 3: Apply Compression to the Parallel Track

• Insert your preferred compressor plugin on the parallel compression track (e.g., Reaper’s built-in ReaComp).
• Set the compressor settings to achieve a noticeable effect. Start with high ratios and low thresholds to really compress the signal.
• Solo the compression track to hear the effect of the compression on its own.

Step 4: Blend the Original Track with the Compressed Track

• Play the kick drum and gradually bring in the parallel compression track to taste.
• Adjust the fader on the compression track to control how much of the compressed sound blends with the original kick drum.
• Listen for a fuller, more powerful kick sound as you adjust the levels.

Step 5: Enhance the Sound with EQ

• Add an EQ plugin to the parallel compression track.
• Boost low frequencies (around 50 Hz) for more depth and high frequencies (around 2.7 kHz) for clarity.
• Engage the EQ and listen to how it enhances the kick drum sound.
• Adjust the EQ settings as needed to achieve the desired tonal balance.

Step 6: Final Mixing

• Bring all your drum tracks back into view and adjust the levels.
• Listen to how the kick drum sits within the overall mix and make further adjustments to the compression and EQ settings if necessary.
• Experiment with different settings until you achieve a balanced and punchy sound.

Conclusion

Parallel compression is an effective technique in mixing that allows for greater control over individual tracks. By following these steps, you can enhance the presence of your kick drum and other instruments, giving your mixes more depth and clarity. Continue to experiment with different effects and settings to refine your mixing skills, and remember to save your project frequently! Happy mixing!