In this third part of a series on building a DJ template, Dubspot writer Rory PQ takes us through the steps of creating a DJ Assist Mix Fader Rack used to mix two tracks effortlessly for seamless transitions. Check out our DJ / Producer Master Program, classes start soon. Enroll Now!
In the first two parts of our series on building a custom DJ template in Ableton Live, we looked at how to build a basic DJ template and created some DJ-style effects triggered by Dummy Clips. In this third part of the series, we will build up the DJ template even further by creating an Assist Fader Rack for seamless mix transitions.
Before we get to mixing our club bangers, check out the previous tutorials in our series on building a custom DJ template below.
Part One: Ableton Live Tutorial: Building a Basic DJ Template w/ Rory PQ + FREE Download
Part Two: Ableton Live Tutorial: Building Dummy Clip DJ Effects w/ Rory PQ + FREE Download
In this tutorial, we will focus on creating custom mix faders that will allow us to execute seamless transitions from one track to another quick and easy. The Assist Mix Fader Rack we will develop in this tutorial can be downloaded for FREE by filling out the form below.
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This intuitive approach to mixing makes it extremely easy to mix two tracks together without the need to fuss with any EQing on your preferred controller or mixer. Essentially, you can achieve silky smooth transitions with one hand leaving your other hand free to make hand hearts and wave to your mom at the club during your performance. Sounds intriguing, how does it work you may ask? Typically when transitioning two tracks during a basic mix, a DJ will first introduce the mid frequencies of the next track being brought into the mix. Once the next track is introduced, the DJ will perform creative mix techniques using the high and low EQ’s, as well as have some fun with various effects. With a simple move of a fader, the Assist Mix Fader Rack will introduce the mid frequencies first and then begin to accentuate the high and low frequencies next. The frequencies will balance at unity once the fader reaches its maximum range, typically 0 dB. In addition, sidechain compression is used to duck the volume on the current track playing when mixing in the next track. Adjusting the fader automates the threshold on a sidechain compressor and slowly introduces sidechain compression that affects only the lower frequencies. This approach will retain a tracks punch and help remedy clashing low frequencies that can cause phasing, muddiness, and volume spikes. The result when using the Assist Mix Fader Rack is transparent transitions with controlled lower frequencies and clarity.
Bonus Tip: You could use this rack in Arrangement View and automate the Mix Knob controls to create transitions for mixes laid out in a linear fashion.
Check out the Assist Mix Fader Rack in action below where I mixed two techno tracks together by simply adjusting the left and right Mix Knobs.
Tracks: Justin James | Not The Curator and Nicola Assi | Tree. Both tracks released on refused.
Let’s move forward and create this very versatile and handy mixing tool, shall we?
For this mixing approach to work, we will need to create identical Assist Mix Fader Racks for both the Left Deck and Right Deck tracks. The only difference will be the sidechain routings. Jumping right in, let’s first create the rack and then move on to MIDI mapping the controls and finishing the setup. For this demonstration, we will work with the DJ template created in the first part of the series. Free download HERE.
This next step is optional but recommended to silence the output signal completely when the fader is down all the way.
For this step, we will create an additional rack for sidechain compression. This addition will help keep the low end in check during transitions while retaining the punch and clarity of the incoming track. It’s important to note that the Threshold is controlled by the opposite tracks mix fader. In other words, the incoming track will control the amount of sidechain compression being applied to the track currently playing. We will look at this further in the steps on MIDI Mapping the controls.
This step is optional and only applies if you’re working with the DJ Template we created in the first tutorial of the series.
Before we move on to MIDI map the controls for a controller or mixer, we will need to create and set up an Assist Mix Fader Rack for the second channel. Luckily, much of the work in nearly completed. All we need to do is the following.
This final step covers how to correctly MIDI map the Assist Mix Fader Rack to your favorite controller or mixer. It’s important to note that the DJ template has aux tracks set up for our DJ effects. We have the option to MIDI map the Assist Mix Faders to the aux track leaving the main Left Deck and Right Deck faders to work as normal faders. To take advantage of having both options, you would need a second set of faders available on your controller. Let’s check out how to get this rack up and running.
Great work, time to spin up the Disco lights and have some fun with your new DJ template. This tutorial may be the last in our series on building a custom DJ template, but it’s not the last time we will explore DJ and live performance techniques in Ableton Live. In the meantime, I encourage you all to experiment with the template, have fun, and shake some club speakers!
The flagship of our music training, with every Ableton Live course offered at the school. After completing this program, you will leave with a portfolio of original tracks, a remix entered in an active contest, a scored commercial to widen your scope, and the Dubspot Producer’s Certificate in Ableton Live.
This program is about learning Ableton Live by going through the entire process of being an artist, by developing your own sound through a series of sketches and experimentation. You will also learn the ins and outs of this powerful software through a series of exercises designed to help you master the steps involved in producing your own music. After a level of getting familiar with the tools that Ableton has to offer, you will then develop your sonic ideas into full-length tracks. You will be exposed to a variety of approaches to arrangement and composition, storytelling techniques, ways of creating tension and drama in your music. At the end of the day, it is the sum total of your choices as an artist that define your sound, and levels 2 – 6 will give you the experience of actually completing tracks to add to your portfolio.
If you have questions, please call 877.DUBSPOT or send us a message.
Click here to view the embedded video.
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On Friday February 27th, our Dubspot NY EDU Sessions continue with a free workshop on the art of mastering with renowned engineer Ricardo Gutierrez. During this workshop enter for a chance to win a FREE copy of the award-winning Ozone 6 audio mastering software courtesy of iZotope.
Dubspot NY EDU Sessions:Dubspot NY EDU Sessions welcomes renowned mastering engineer Ricardo Gutierrez to host a free workshop focusing on the art and mystery of mastering your music. The workshop will help steer you in the right direction to prepare your music for the mastering process and cover some of the basics of mastering, such as: What is mastering? How do you get a mix ready for the mastering process? What should you expect from the mastering process? Why do I even need mastering? Can I do it myself?
During this workshop attendees can enter for a chance to win a FREE copy of the award-winning Ozone 6 audio mastering software courtesy of iZotope!
This event is FREE and open to the public. Space is limited, please arrive early to sign in.
Mastering engineer Ricardo Gutierrez has nearly a decade of experience on major releases at a professional level. Ricardo mentored and studied under world-class engineers, including the renowned Herb Power, Jr. All work is done on pro gear from trusted companies such as Sony, GML, Prism-Maselec, Apogee and Grace. Since his start at The Hit Factory, NYC, Ricardo has been a student of the old-school New York studio world that meant knowing how to align a tape machine and cut vinyl masters, but he has also fully embraced the evolving world of audio technology. Over a decade into his career Ricardo has been privileged to work with artists from many genres, including Justin Timberlake, Just Blaze, Cedric Gervais and Atmosphere.
Ask questions. Watch demos. Test drive workstations.
Visit our New York and Los Angeles locations! Ask our Admissions Counselors in-depth questions about our programs, curriculum and philosophy. Watch live music production and DJ demos, and test drive our student workstations. If you are still trying to decide what you are looking for, stop by one of our Open Houses in NYC or schedule a tour in LA to find out more about the learning process at Dubspot. We can also help with scheduling details and payment options.
Click here to view the embedded video.
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For this week’s Dubspot Radio Podcast, we have an original concept mixtape performance by TekMaschine (better known as Dubspot instructor Shareef Islam a.k.a. Azteknique). Inspired by Quincy Jones’ excellent score for the 1978 film The Wiz, Shareef extracts samples for the film, composed and performed an entire mixtape using Native Instruments Maschine!
Shareef Islam has donned many hats within the music industry. Many know him as a respected music producer and educator. In a conversation with Dubspot Radio’s Pozibelle (a.k.a. Kristen Glennon), Shareef talks about his early days. He takes us back to when he was a dancer, his entry into the world of music production and DJing, self-education, and teaching. He also talks about the inspiration and motivation behind this performance mix, which utilizes audio samples from the 1978 film “The Wiz.” Originally produced by Quincy Jones “The Wiz” features an array of music luminaries including Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Ashford & Simpson, etc. The result is a superb hip-hop reinterpretation and homage to a beloved film.
Shareef (Azteknique aka TekMaschine) Islamm, born in the Bronx and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He started out as a dancer/choreographer during the late 80’s early 90’s when hip hop and dance music was at its best. He went on to perform and work with artists such as Paula Abdul, Jody Watley, Heavy D, Sybil, Color Me Badd, and Kid N Play to name a few. After an injury he suffered on a video set, Shareef began working on his skills as a producer/engineer. Further developing his skills, he started out with local talent, which prepared him for the more professional artists he encountered later on in his career. He has worked with established artists such as AZ, Big Daddy Kane, SuperStar of the ICONZ, the Bush Babees, Busta Rhymes, Rampage, Q-Tip, and De La Soul. In addition, he has worked with boxing champion Zab “Super” Judah, Lin Que (ISIS of X-Clan), Mos Def, Onyx, and Jay – Z. Shareef has remixed songs for D’Angelo, TLC, Brandy, Lil Sammy, Missy Elliot, Onyx, and Raphael Saadiq. He was also one of the assistant engineers on the Flip Mode Squad and Busta Rhymes albums. Shareef has also composed and played music for numerous reality tv shows. A few shows to mention include Clean House, Kimora Lee Simmons, VH1 Best Week, Mickey Rourke Story on A&E, The VH1 Bobby Brown Story, Sony/Fox’s Brothers, and various documentaries. He was also the composer for Super Bowl Champion and co-star of ABC’s “Live with Kelly & Michael,” Michael Strahan. He has also worked with C C H Pounder, Carl ( Apollo Creed ) Weathers, and Darryl “Chill” Mitchell. Currently, Shareef is composing for film and television for networks such as VH1, Sony, Mavericks, Universal, as well as working with Ms. Lauryn Hill. Along with drum programming and audio engineering (Mixing, Recording, Editing) Shareef plays the keyboard and bass guitar. Shareef is also an Instructor and music educator at Dubspot’s Electronic Music Production and DJ School in NYC. In addition, he is the host and co-creator of hit internet web series “Reclaiming The Mix with Maschine.”
Shareef plans on bringing a new sound and vibe to the entertainment game with his production company, Azteknique Productions LLC. and his label, HipSoul Entertainment Inc. HipSoul is the sound!! The sound is being introduced to the world by artist signed to the label, as well as some newer projects coming out on Film/TV, video games, and collaboration’s with other artist
Keep up with Shareef Islam a.k.a. Azteknique on SoundCoud and Facebook for updates on his HipSoul Entertainment imprint.
Ask questions. Watch demos. Test drive workstations.
Visit our New York and Los Angeles locations! Ask our Admissions Counselors in-depth questions about our programs, curriculum and philosophy. Watch live music production and DJ demos, and test drive our student workstations. If you are still trying to decide what you are looking for, stop by one of our Open Houses in NYC or schedule a tour in LA to find out more about the learning process at Dubspot. We can also help with scheduling details and payment options.
Click here to view the embedded video.
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The post Dubspot Radio Podcast: TekMaschine (Shareef Islam a.k.a. Azteknique) – The Wiz Mixtape w/ Maschine appeared first on Dubspot Blog.
