When layering leads in trance music production, how do you ensure each layer contributes effectively to the overall sound without cluttering the mix? Share your tips for achieving a cohesive and powerful trance lead arrangement?
Dependent on the track, Generally I keep to 4 or 5 layers. Wrong or right, during the break i low cut my leads with a 12Db slop at about 100Hz, when the drop hits I automate the cut to 150Hz. I also dynamic side chain my mid basses (with my leads) with a bell cut/reduction at 250Hz to 350Hz. It works for me🤷♂️ interested to hear others..
I generally start with a main lead Idea and then identify what the lead needs that I cant get out of the current synth. Then ill add a high, or mid layer depending on the circumstance. But definately make sure the main lead idea doesn't get lost in the layers haha
Simple method for myself is.
Top Lead
Mid Lead
2nd Mid Lead but eq it so it doesnt clash with first mid
And for the 4th use same lead as 2nd Mid but drop it down a octave and that gives u a nice low Lead to work with.
EQ process always different so cant explain anything as every sound always different eq due to different frequencies etc
Some sounds i need to boost with little saturation or distortion.
Sometimes i dont need to do anything to sounds.
Lead Bus:
EQ
Delay
Reverb
EQ
Saturation/Distortion (not always thou)
EQ
Sidechain
But this isnt always the final process for Bus
I think its also to do with sound textures. layering leads or sounds that add to theoverall sound is key. Like, layering the top line of an arp with a sharper more brittle sound and keep it amost mono so it sits in the middle. then have alyaer of arp an octave higher that is more pushed back and more wet in reverb. Then of course the EQ etc
I use a lead rack