Quite confused about Sidechaining.

[mixsit]

..If I'm correct in understanding, side-chain in the way we're talking about is LITERALLY the output (for example, on a compressor) that says "side-chain." If you had that on say, a bass guitar and linked it to the kick drum channel, you're compressing the bass guitar based on the side-chain input, which is the kick drum.

Of course, PARALLEL compression is when you do as I've been talking about, and using a send. Running something in parallel uses a send, running something in side-chain means you're using a different input to trigger something, such as compression.

Yeah?

Yes pretty much. But the 'side chain jack is simply an access point and/or interruption of the normal path.. to the detector circuit. What you do with it.. could be as simple as injecting some filtering.
Here's an example where the control path is called side chain' w/o anything additional going on.
Google Image Result for http://rane.com/n155fig6.gif
don't know if that's 'industry norm or not but it is Rane.

So this thread sure is a good example of how just using a few terms differently can really keep the meanings clearer.

 

[jaynm26]

This right here just made me understand the difference between side-chain/parallel compression, and how you're all telling me side-chain isn't what I'm talking about. xD

If I'm correct in understanding, side-chain in the way we're talking about is LITERALLY the output (for example, on a compressor) that says "side-chain." If you had that on say, a bass guitar and linked it to the kick drum channel, you're compressing the bass guitar based on the side-chain input, which is the kick drum.

Of course, PARALLEL compression is when you do as I've been talking about, and using a send. Running something in parallel uses a send, running something in side-chain means you're using a different input to trigger something, such as compression.

Yeah?

Yep! Thats it you got Wrenchy. Ways to create Parallel Comp...

1.) Send part of the level to aux (as you mentioned)
2.) Just duplicate or copy the same signal and add FX's to the duplicated signal

For the record I don't side-chain audio or have a signal control another signal. Just never made since to me I would rather automate the audio that needs attenuating or use EQ. I want my audio to work independently always. I think people do it just cause it sounds cool, not legitimate reason to do it. Just my take

 

[Doctor Varney]

When I mixed the 100% wet signal from a reverb send with the dry signal from the original at the master, I assumed I was side chaining. Now I'm even more confused than ever.

 

[bouldersoundguy]

When I mixed the 100% wet signal from a reverb send with the dry signal from the original at the master, I assumed I was side chaining. Now I'm even more confused than ever.

It's technically correct but not the common term. "Sidechain" can mean any parallel signal path, such as the detector path in a compressor or a parallel compression setup or an effects send/return arrangement. I prefer "effects loop" for the routing you describe because it's specific to the application.

 

[Doctor Varney]

Yes, I think I prefer that, too, now I've started reading this thread more in depth. I've learned something from reading all this. It would never have occurred to me to even attempt what's being spoken about here. Maybe one day, when I've worked out how to use the compressor's most basic functions...