Kick Drum design with Dynamics Processors

In this tutorial we will look at kick drum sound design using dynamics processors, though the technique can be used for any percussion sound.

The primary use of these tools is controlling dynamics, but I am going to use them for sound design, mainly transient shaping.

A side effect of this exploration is that it allows a deeper understanding of how the devices respond. Often when we use these devices we want their effect to be quite transparent, not so here! What I am doing really exposes the process, almost abusing the effect, distorting the input.

Depending on what plugin devices you use you can get different results & character. I am going to use Ableton’s Compressor and Gate devices.