Mixing acoustic drums (Part 2)

Making acoustic drums compete in the modern landscape of producers using samples and electronic drums is a difficult task. Mixing acoustic drums to have a powerful, modern drum sound takes practice, but it can add a human element to any production that enhances the groove and pocket of the instrument. Award-winning producer, mixer, and engineer, Fab Dupont demonstrates how to transform acoustic drums from raw, flat recordings into polished drum tracks with depth, size, and punch. Follow along as Fab works through a real-world session, breaking down each step of his process. After seeing how Fab mixes the drum tracks, download the session to practice what you have learned in your studio.

See how Fab Dupont:

• Explains the essential techniques for managing phase relationships
• Breaks down the drum perspective (audience vs. drummer) and its role in painting the picture of the drum kit
• Applies EQ and compression to enhance the tonal balance and punch of each drum
• Uses parallel compression to add weight and depth while maintaining dynamic range
• Demonstrates how to tackle common challenges like bleed and phase issues with precision
• Leverages multi-band compression and specific plugins for advanced tonal shaping
• Creates spatial effects like reverb and panning to seat the drums seamlessly into the mix
• Discusses how to shape transients with your favorite compressors to intent to your drum mixes
• Explains the importance of paying attention to the pocket and groove of the drums while setting attack and release times on compressors
• Shows different techniques using drum bus compressors for a controlled kit