Transiant Shaping

[RockinRobby]

Hello, I just got WAVES TransX transiant shapper. I really like the plug-in.

I'm currious about best practices? I know that there aren't necessarily "hard and fast" rules about how to use our plugs.

However, for example, I believe you should always limit last?

So for example, if you are also using a compressor, do you TS before, or after the compressor? Is anyone familiar with using TS?

What about TS on tracks, vs. Buses? vs. Mains? I know they are good for helping drum tracks/buses and bass.

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[JimmyS1969]

I am not familiar with the Waves plug. If it is a typical 'transient designer' type plug, then it would depend on what you are using it on. I use Transient Monster from Stillwell. It sometimes needs some limiting before. Usually after. It just depends on the signal being sent to it. You will hear when the sound source is clipping, whether before or after the plug. Make adjustments accordingly.

 

[mixsit]

I'm really keen on it and glad I sprung for it. UAD/SPL here.
I've used it on bass and guitars (acoustic and electrics) more than anything so far. More often I guess to tame peaky stuff and/or to thin out or reduce sustain than the other directions. Sometimes it just helps them fit or sit better, or helps clear space out in the mix.
To me it's a totally viable option to fairly fast low ratio compression or expansion. I'm still pretty much trial and error though whether it ends up working better than various compressors or what have you.
But yeah 'level independent control like that, what a great idea.

 

[Seidy]

I usually find myself using transient shaper on snare/clap to give more or less snap to the sound.

 

[Mo Facta]

The cool thing about the Trans-X is that you get single and multi-band versions.

The single band version is much like the SPL TD but the multi-band version is an interesting tool that allows you to add "oomph" to various ranges of the spectrum. I like to think about it as a way to individually control the dynamic impact of each frequency band and it certainly sounds that way.

However it's easy to get carried away by thinking that every band needs more oomph. Selectively choosing parts of the spectrum to oomphinate based on the material is key. Of course, there's no magic bullet and every situation deserves it's own treatment.

Cheers