How to Use Trackspacer for Better Kick and Bass Separation

Trackspacer is a dynamic EQ that will revolutionize your low end. It intelligently carves out space for your kick drum or bassline. This plugin uses sidechain compression to prevent frequency clashes. It ensures a clear, punchy, and defined low end every time. I’ve personally seen dramatic improvements in my mixes using this technique.

Why Kick and Bass Clash

Kick drums and basslines often occupy similar frequency ranges. This causes muddiness and a lack of definition. Your low end becomes a wall of sound. It loses impact and clarity. I struggled with this issue for years in my own productions. It’s a common problem for many producers. Getting a tight low end is crucial for any track.

What is Trackspacer?

Trackspacer is a multi-band sidechain compressor or dynamic EQ. It listens to an incoming sidechain signal. Then it creates surgical cuts in the target track’s frequency spectrum. It acts like an intelligent EQ. It reacts only when the sidechain signal is present. I first discovered it through another producer’s recommendation. My results were immediate and impressive.

Dynamic EQ vs. Static EQ

A static EQ makes fixed cuts or boosts. It doesn’t change over time. A dynamic EQ, like Trackspacer, is different. It adjusts its processing in real-time. It responds to the audio it receives. This allows for transparent and precise mixing. It’s a game-changer for frequency conflicts.

Setting Up Trackspacer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Implementing Trackspacer is straightforward. I follow these steps in every mix. This ensures consistent and professional results.

Step 1: Insert Trackspacer on Your Bass Track

Place Trackspacer as an insert effect directly onto your bass track. This is the track you want to “duck” or make space in. It should be the first plugin in your effects chain.

Step 2: Route Your Kick Drum to Trackspacer’s Sidechain Input

This is the most critical step. Send your kick drum track to Trackspacer’s sidechain input. Every DAW handles sidechain routing slightly differently. In Ableton Live, select the kick track from the “Sidechain” dropdown. In Logic Pro X, use the “Side Chain” input menu on the plugin. Consult your DAW’s manual if unsure. Your kick drum will now “tell” Trackspacer when to act.

Step 3: Adjust the Settings

Now we fine-tune Trackspacer’s parameters.

Amount/Reduction: This controls how much the bass track will be ducked. Start with a low value. Slowly increase it until you hear the kick punch through. I often find subtle amounts are best.

Attack/Release: These settings determine the speed of the processing. A fast attack makes space immediately. A slower attack can sound more natural. A fast release returns the bass quickly. A slow release creates a smoother ducking effect. Experiment to find the sweet spot for your track. I usually start with a medium attack and release. Then I adjust by ear.

Filter/Frequency Range: Trackspacer features a frequency spectrum display. Use the high-pass and low-pass filters to focus the ducking. You only want to target the clashing frequencies. I often focus on the 60-200 Hz range for kick and bass. This is where most of the overlap occurs.

Sidechain Listen: This button allows you to hear only the sidechain input. It helps you accurately identify the kick drum’s dominant frequencies. This makes targeted ducking much easier. I always use this feature to dial in the frequency range.

My Personal Tips for Optimal Results

I’ve learned a few tricks over countless mixing sessions. These tips will help you get the most out of Trackspacer.

Don’t Overdo It: A little goes a long way. Excessive ducking can make your bass sound thin. Listen carefully to avoid artifacts. My rule is to use the minimum amount necessary.

Listen in Context: Always judge your adjustments in the full mix. Soloing can be misleading. How it sounds with other instruments matters most.

Use a Spectrum Analyzer: A visual aid can confirm your adjustments. Watch the low end of your bass track. See the dips corresponding to the kick hits. I use one on my master buss.

Experiment with Attack/Release: Different genres require different timings. Fast, punchy tracks need quicker settings. Slower, groovier tracks might benefit from longer ones.

Target Specific Frequencies: Don’t duck the entire bass spectrum if unnecessary. Use the frequency filters to be precise. This preserves the bass’s richness. I try to be as surgical as possible.

Beyond Kick and Bass: Other Applications

Trackspacer is incredibly versatile. I use it for more than just kick and bass. It can clear space for vocals against a busy instrumental. It helps separate lead synths from pad layers. Think of any two elements that clash. Trackspacer can likely solve the problem. It’s a powerful tool for achieving mix clarity.

Trackspacer is a must-have tool for any producer. It brings clarity and punch to your low end. It makes your kick and bass sit perfectly together. My mixes gained professional polish with this plugin. I encourage you to try it yourself. Your listeners will notice the difference.