Then, how can we increase the loudness without overcompressing? The answer is parallel processing.

What is Parallel Processing

Parallel processing is a technique where a duplicated audio source is over processed to obtain a saturated or over-the-top effect and then blended with the original. This is done via sends in a console or your DAW or duplicating the track and applying extreme compression, saturation, and EQ moves to that track.

Tip: If you create parallel processing through sends and Aux tracks, use pre-fader sends to have independence over the parallel tracks.

The effect

When listened to by themselves, the tracks might sound unusable for the mix since they could sound distorted with a lot of sustain and even too bright. The trick relies on blending this signal with the original, providing it with more presence and weight without compromising the dynamic of the whole mix.

The most common uses of parallel processing are parallel compression and parallel distortion, but many engineers combine these two to achieve the desired result.

A good example is the New York compression technique. It combines compression and EQ in the parallel track to get that distinctive sound. The NY Compression is typically used on drums and vocals to add excitement and bring them forward in the mix.

When do I use it?

The answer is simple: Whenever you want! Parallel processing is a versatile tool that you can use in various creative ways, empowering you to experiment and innovate in your mixes.

Many mixing engineers use parallel processing in various creative ways. Andrew Scheps’ signature sound comes from parallel compression. He has all sorts of parallel tracks compressing, saturating, and crushing sounds in different ways so he can send the elements in the mix to them and obtain a specific effect. Michael Brauer has a dedicated parallel compression channel for the entire mix, which creates more dense and punchy mixes.

Similar to reverb or delay channels, parallel processing gives you full control over how much the processed track contributes to the mix. You can even automate it to create dynamic effects. This level of control and flexibility can boost your confidence in your mixing skills.

Parallel processing with Sonimus

Sonimus products are designed to be user-friendly, offering a wide range of tones and saturation to enrich your parallel tracks. Whether it’s our console emulation range, compressors like TuCo, or our analogue-feel saturation found in A-EQ, Burnley 73, or SonEQ, you can be reassured that you’re using tools that are easy to understand and apply in your mixes.

However, Sonimus also offers the possibility of creating parallel processing without leaving the original track. Using the mix knob found on TuCo, Satson Compressor, N, A and T-Console, you can make instant parallel processing. This feature is super helpful to reduce clutter in your sessions without the need to add unnecessary extra tracks. Just over-compress or saturate your track and dial back your mix knob to your liking. We explored this technique when we obtained the killer guitar tones from Vulfpeck using only our Satson CS plugin, obtaining a controlled signal that retained its natural performance feel.

Conclusion

Parallel processing is a great technique to create more dense mixes without sacrificing dynamics. It can help bring forward elements in the mix that need to be highlighted, like drums or vocals. Using Sonimus plugins in your parallel processing can help you enhance your tracks with their highly renowned analogue sound without fearing choking the mix. Plus, with the mix knob feature found in many of our products, it’s easier than ever to apply it without overcomplicated routings or increasing the track number.

Do you use parallel processing in your tracks? Let us know in the comments, and subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news from Sonimus in your inbox.

Happy mixing 😊