Thread by @LANDR_music

❤️LO-FI FOREVER❤️ In this thread, we’re breaking down the essential tips and techniques to add that nostalgic #lofi feel and dusty texture to your music 👇

Before we get started, it’s worth mentioning that mixing lo-fi relies on the same fundamentals required to mix any other genre. These include carving out space with EQ, controlling dynamics with compression and adding depth/dimension with reverb.

If you need a refresher on foundational mixing techniques, check out our beginner’s guide to mixing: bit.ly/3Pae8Vg

1/ Use a lo-fi plugin: It may seem obvious, but plugins are an essential ingredient for this style of mixing, especially if you’re working with samples.

Some of our favorite lo-fi plugins include @xlnaudio’s RC-20 Retro Color, @BabyAudio’s Super VHS, @klevgrand's DAW Cassette, and @goodhertz’s Vulf.

2/ Dial in your lo-fi parameters: Most lo-fi plugins offer a range of controls that add different features to the signal based on the behavior of physical music formats (cassette, vinyl, etc.).

Here’s a quick guide to the most common controls 👇
➡️Wow and flutter: simulates changes in tape speed
➡️Dust, crackle, noise: mimics system noise from turntables/cassette decks
➡️Drive, saturation: adds harmonics and changes tone
➡️Bit reduction: reduces file quality

3/ Apply sidechain compression: A good lo-fi mix should emphasize the push and pull of the beat. Sidechaining is common in plenty of genres, but you can really push the limit when mixing lo-fi. Here’s a good intro on the subject: bit.ly/3srkCFw

4/ Use lo-fi delay and reverb: While there are plenty of different flavors of delay and reverb plugins, when it comes to lo-fi, consider using vintage types of ambience effects to enhance the nostalgic feel.

We’re talking about old-school reverbs like spring, plate and hardware, or analog delays like tape or BBD. These effect types have a naturally grittier sound. Some even introduce the kind of desirable noise you might bring in with atmospheric samples or vinyl crackle controls.

5/ Focus on the midrange: Lo-fi tracks generally have a stronger emphasis on midrange frequencies overall. This is because consumer recording devices like cassette decks had limited bandwidth that cut out a lot of low and high end.

The result was a naturally smooth and soft sound that became associated with the lo-fi style. So don’t be afraid to roll off highs and tame excessive lows with high and low-pass filters to bring out the warmth of the midrange into your mix.

Get all the the gritty details on lo-fi mixing from the LANDR blog! bit.ly/3vZQSBC