Reverb, short for reverberation, is the sound that lingers after the original sound source has stopped. This effect occurs naturally in different environments, from small rooms to vast cathedrals, and can be imitated by using reverb plugins in digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Reverb is an essential effect in audio production that can add so much depth and space to your recordings. Whether you're a composer, musician, producer, or audio enthusiast, understanding how to use reverb can elevate your sound to new heights. In this post, we'll explore the basics of reverb, how to set it up, and tips for using it practically and creatively.
Reverb Parameters
The key parameters of reverb include:
- Time: This controls how long the reverb lasts. Longer decay times create a more spacious feel, while shorter times give a tighter sound.
- Pre-Delay: The time between the original sound and the onset of the reverb. Adjusting pre-delay can help maintain clarity in a mix.
- Wet/Dry Mix: The balance between the original sound (dry) and the reverb effect (wet). You need to find the right balance between dry and wet to keep the sound sounding natural.
Understanding Reverb
Steps to set up your reverb in your DAW:
- Choose a Reverb Plugin: Most DAWs come with built-in reverb plugins. Select one that suits your needs. Some popular reverbs are Valhalla Room, Lexicon, and FabFilter Pro-R.
- Insert the Plugin on a Send/Return Track: Instead of placing the reverb directly on the audio track, use a send/return track. This allows you to apply the same reverb to multiple tracks so everything can sound like it is in the same ‘space’.
- Adjust the Parameters: Start with the decay time and pre-delay settings. A good starting point is a decay time of around 1.5 to 2.5 seconds and a pre-delay of 20-40 milliseconds.
- Balance the Wet/Dry Mix: Blend the reverb with the original sound. For a subtle effect don’t make it too wet. For a more pronounced reverb, put up that wet percentage!
Creative Reverb
Reverb can also be used creatively to:
- Create Ambience: Use reverb to imitate different environments. For example, a large hall reverb can add grandeur to orchestral pieces, while a plate reverb can give vintage warmth to vocals.
- Enhance Depth and Space: Apply different reverb types to various elements in your mix. Short, bright reverbs on percussion can add snap, while longer, darker reverbs on pads can create a lush background.
- Automate Reverb Parameters: Automation can bring dynamic movement to your tracks. Try automating the decay time or wet/dry mix to build tension and release in your song.
By conquering reverb, you can transform your audio projects, adding depth, space, and dimension. Experiment with different settings and plugins to find the perfect reverb for your sound. If you want a more in depth guide to using reverb then check out Joël Dollié’s course on Mixing Cinematic Music where you can learn about reverb and many more mixing techniques.
