Parallel Processing
Mixing technique that blends a dry signal with a heavily processed version of the same signal to maintain natural character while adding impact.
Definition
Parallel processing involves duplicating an audio signal and applying heavy processing to the copy, then blending it with the original dry signal. This technique maintains the natural character of the source while adding the benefits of extreme processing.
Commonly used with compression, EQ, and reverb, parallel processing allows engineers to achieve dramatic effects without completely destroying the original signal's dynamics and timbre, creating more musical and balanced results.
Why It Matters
Parallel processing enables more aggressive sound design while maintaining musical integrity, crucial for competitive loudness in modern music production. It's essential for achieving contemporary drum sounds and vocal presence.
This technique allows producers to satisfy both artistic and commercial demands, creating impactful mixes that retain dynamic interest and don't fatigue listeners over repeated playback sessions.
Examples in Practice
Parallel drum compression is standard in rock and pop production, with engineers like Andy Wallace blending heavily compressed drum buses with natural room sounds for powerful yet dynamic results.
EDM producers use parallel distortion on bass sounds, maintaining the fundamental frequency's clarity while adding harmonic excitement through the processed signal blend.
Vocal producers often employ parallel reverb processing, creating spacious atmospheres without washing out vocal intelligibility or presence in the mix.