Mixing acoustic drums

Making acoustic drums compete in the modern landscape of producers using samples and electronic drums is a difficult task. Mixing acoustic drums to have a powerful, modern drum sound takes practice, but it can add a human element to any production that enhances the groove and pocket of the instrument.

In this Puremix exclusive, award-winning producer, mixer, and engineer, Fab Dupont demonstrates how to transform acoustic drums from raw, flat recordings into polished drum tracks with depth, size, and punch. Follow along as Fab works through a real-world session, breaking down each step of his process. After seeing how Fab mixes the drum tracks, download the session to practice what you have learned in your studio.

See how Fab Dupont:

Explains the essential techniques for managing phase relationships
Breaks down the drum perspective (audience vs. drummer) and its role in painting the picture of the drum kit
Applies EQ and compression to enhance the tonal balance and punch of each drum
Uses parallel compression to add weight and depth while maintaining dynamic range
Demonstrates how to tackle common challenges like bleed and phase issues with precision
Leverages multi-band compression and specific plugins for advanced tonal shaping
Creates spatial effects like reverb and panning to seat the drums seamlessly into the mix
Discusses how to shape transients with your favorite compressors to intent to your drum mixes
Explains the importance of paying attention to the pocket and groove of the drums while setting attack and release times on compressors
Shows different techniques using drum bus compressors for a controlled kit