Week 3 – CLT – BEAT EXPERT STORE

Creative Live Technologies: Week 3 Tutorial

Introduction

Welcome to Week 3 of the Creative Live Technologies module! Building on the fundamentals from the first two weeks, we’ll now explore basic mixing techniques, including channel processing (EQ, compression, gating) and a first look at console effects like reverb and delay. By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

Understand core mixing concepts (balancing levels, panning, basic effects sends)
Apply EQ and dynamics (compression, gating) on individual channels
Integrate basic console effects (reverb, delay) into your mix

1. Core Mixing Concepts

1.1 Level Balancing & Panning

Level Balancing: Start with all faders at unity or slightly below. Gradually add channels for a cohesive blend.

Panning: Use subtle panning for width but keep key elements centered for clarity.

1.2 Headroom & Metering

Watch the Meters: Avoid peaking into the red.
Leave Headroom: Peaks around -18 dBFS are optimal.

2. Channel Processing: EQ & Dynamics

2.1 Equalization (EQ)

High-Pass Filter (HPF): Roll off unnecessary low frequencies.
Low/Mid/High Bands: Adjust bands to shape tonal balance.

2.2 Compression

Threshold: Set level where compression starts.
Ratio: Controls how much gain reduction is applied.

2.3 Gating

Noise Gates: Use to mute signals below a threshold.

3. Basic Console Effects: Reverb & Delay

3.1 FX Sends & Returns

Sends: Route signal to effects processors.
Returns: Processed signal returned to mix.

3.2 Reverb

Simulates acoustic spaces to add depth.
Adjust decay and pre-delay for clarity.

3.3 Delay

Creates echoes for emphasis.
Control delay time and feedback to match rhythm.

4. Venue Session Activities

Practice mixing techniques with hands-on activities:

Form 2 groups : sound engineers and musicians: free music prac
Compression & Gating Exercises: Apply dynamics to live channels.

Week 3 – CLT