Using Multiple Plugin Instances with Different Settings in a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

In the realm of digital audio workstations (DAWs), the flexibility to utilize multiple instances of plugins with different settings can significantly enhance the creative process. This technique is often employed by professional audio engineers to achieve complex and nuanced audio effects. Let's explore the possibilities and practical aspects of using different plugin settings on various voices and instruments simultaneously.

Feasibility and Benefits

Yes, it is both possible and a good idea to use one plugin with totally different settings on different voices and/or instruments in a DAW simultaneously. As mentioned by Steve, many audio professionals, such as singers and producers, find this method beneficial. They often have specific starting points for each voice or instrument, allowing for a more tailored and precise sound.

For those with the appropriate computing power, this technique is highly effective. Steve shares his setup, which includes Pro Tools with an Intel i7 processor, 64 gigabytes of RAM, and 2TB of storage space. With such resources, virtually any plugin can be used in conjunction with different settings for various tracks. The right hardware ensures that even complex audio workflows can be managed smoothly.

Series and Parallel Plugin Processing

DAWs provide flexibility through the arrangement of plugins. For instance, plugins can be inserted in series, where the output of one plugin is the input for the next. This serial arrangement can be advantageous for layers of processing, such as compressing and then equalizing an audio signal. Alternatively, parallel processing allows for a direct parallel send, where the original signal and the processed signal can be used independently, as with compression, saturation, and reverb.

Multisending and feedback loops are also common techniques in audio production. By redirecting the output of a plugin into another channel or sending it back into the same plugin, producers can create unique effects. However, caution is advised to avoid feedback loops, which can distort the audio and lead to unwanted noise. Experimentation is key, and numerous tutorials on YouTube provide guidance on these techniques.

Managing Multiple Instances

Loading a different instance of a plugin for each track is a practical approach, as long as the machine has the required processing power. This method is particularly useful for complex productions where each instrument or voice requires its own specific processing. VST, AU, and AAX formats are specifically designed to accommodate multiple plugin instances, making them ideal for this workflow.

Despite the flexibility, it is important to maintain a clean and focused mix, especially when using numerous plugins. Excessive plugin use can introduce conflicts and muddy the final mix. It is advisable to start with core plugins only, such as compressors, EQs, delays, and reverb, and add others only when necessary.

Conclusion

Using multiple plugin instances with different settings in a DAW is not only a viable technique but also a powerful tool for audio producers. Whether for compressing, equalizing, adding delays, or reverb, this approach allows for greater control and creativity in audio production. With the right setup and careful management, it can significantly enhance the quality and depth of your mixes.