If you own plugins from Arturia, you already have everything you need to create professional, polished vocals. In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to mix vocals using Arturia plugins only, from cleanup to final effects.

This workflow works great for pop, rap, R&B, and modern productions.

Step 1: Clean the Vocal Recording

🎚 Remove Low-End Rumble

Use Pre 1973 or Pre TridA

• Enable high-pass filter

• Male vocal: 80–100 Hz

• Female vocal: 100–120 Hz

This removes unnecessary low frequencies and keeps the mix clean.

🎛 Reduce Mud

If the vocal sounds boxy:

• Cut gently around 200–400 Hz

• Keep reductions subtle (1–3 dB)

Step 2: Add Analog Character (Preamp Stage)

Insert a preamp plugin for tone and warmth:

Best Choices:

• Pre 1973 – Thick, warm tone

• Pre V76 – Smooth vintage vibe

• Pre TridA – Modern and punchy

Increase input gain slightly to add harmonic saturation. Avoid audible distortion unless stylistic.

Step 3: First Compression (Control Peaks)

Use Comp FET-76 (1176-style compression).

Suggested Settings:

• Ratio: 4:1

• Fast attack

• Fast release

• 3–6 dB gain reduction

This controls sharp peaks and keeps vocals upfront.

Step 4: Second Compression (Smooth Leveling)

Add Comp TUBE-STA (optical-style compressor).

• Slow attack

• Gentle compression

• 2–3 dB gain reduction

This smooths out the vocal and adds warmth.

💡 Tip: Serial compression sounds more natural than heavy single compression.

Step 5: EQ for Clarity & Air

Use EQ Sitral-295 for shaping.

Common Adjustments:

• Cut harshness: 2–4 kHz

• Boost presence: 4–6 kHz

• Add air: 10–15 kHz

Keep boosts subtle for a natural sound.

Step 6: De-Essing (Control “S” Sounds)

Arturia doesn’t have a dedicated de-esser, but you can:

• Use EQ Sitral-295

• Narrow cut at 5–8 kHz

• Reduce harsh frequencies manually

For advanced control, use Bus FORCE dynamic processing.

Step 7: Add Reverb (Send Channel)

Plate Reverb (Classic Vocal Sound)

Use Rev PLATE-140

• Decay: 1.5–2.5 seconds

• Pre-delay: 40–80 ms

• High-pass reverb at 200 Hz

Modern Ambient Reverb

Use Rev INTENSITY

• Mix: 10–20%

• Keep stereo width controlled

Always place reverb on a send channel for better mix balance.

Step 8: Add Delay (Optional)

Use Delay TAPE-201

• 1/4 or 1/8 note sync

• Feedback: 10–25%

• High-cut around 4–6 kHz

Automate delay throws at the end of phrases for a professional touch.

Step 9: Final Glue & Saturation

For subtle cohesion:

• Light saturation from preamp

• Optional gentle compression using Bus FORCE (1–2 dB)

Keep the vocal centered and automate volume for emotional impact.

Example Arturia Vocal Chain

1. Pre 1973

2. Comp FET-76

3. Comp TUBE-STA

4. EQ Sitral-295

5. (Send) Rev PLATE-140

6. (Send) Delay TAPE-201

Pro Mixing Tips

• Always mix vocals in context with the instrumental

• Use automation before adding heavy compression

• Keep reverbs wide but vocals mostly mono

• Less processing often sounds more professional