Mixing doubled lead vocal tracks

[Ronixis]

I'm currently recording vocals for our new EP. I'm doing three tracks of lead vocals (1st really loud, 2nd about 4 db:s lower and 3rd even lower). Growls sound really thick, but the clean vocals tend to sound a bit phasey here and there.

You don't always get the perfect doubled take, so do you guys just edit the doubled take to fit really tight, or do you mix it quiet enough so you won't hear the phasey sound. Thanks!

 

[Skinny Viking]

yes and yes

I keep doubles generally about 6 db quieter than the main, sometimes even more unless I'm going for an obviously double sound

 

[Ermz]

6dB is the sweet spot for me too.

On growls I don't like editing the doubles to each other. It's generally the smear that you're after. If you just voc-align them, you'll just get a chorusy sound that doesn't help much. Keep doing retakes until it's all right, and only nudge a bit here and there when absolutely needed.

Clean doubles can be hard edited though if you want the Top 40 thing.

 

[crillemannen]

yes and yes

I keep doubles generally about 6 db quieter than the main, sometimes even more unless I'm going for an obviously double sound

+1

If you're doing the vocalign thing you can go for equal level on the dubb to get a nice chorus sound.

 

[Ronixis]

This was the clear answer I was looking for, thanks!