Here are 7 tips to mix a song in Protools and make it sound analog:
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- Use analog emulations: Pro Tools has many plugins that can emulate the sound of analog gear. Use plugins like Slate Digital Virtual Tape Machines or Waves NLS to give your mix an analog feel.
2. Use saturation: Analog gear adds a certain warmth to the sound due to harmonic distortion. Use plugins like the Decapitator or the Saturn to add saturation to your mix.
3. Use tape delay: Analog tape has a natural tape delay that can add depth and dimension to your mix. Use plugins like the EchoBoy or Reel ADT to add tape delay to your mix.
4. Use analog summing: Analog summing can give your mix a more cohesive sound. Use plugins like the UAD Neve 88RS or Waves NLS to sum your mix and give it an analog feel.
5. Use analog modeling: Pro Tools has many plugins that can model the sound of analog gear. Use plugins like the UAD Studer A800 or Waves J37 to model the sound of analog tape.
6. Use analog EQ and compression: Analog EQ and compression can add a certain color and character to your mix. Use plugins like the Waves SSL G-Master Buss Compressor or the UAD Pultec EQP-1A to add analog EQ and compression to your mix. Also use board style EQ’s on individual tracks such as the UAD SSL E Channel Strip or UAD Neve 1073.
7. Use analog reverb: Analog reverb can give your mix a more natural and organic feel. Use plugins like the UAD EMT 140 or Waves Abbey Road Chambers to add analog reverb to your mix.
Remember when going for an Analog sound, less is more. Use fewer EQ bands and find a main bus compressor to glue everything together. Turn your DAW into your analog console.