Sidechain Compression
Using one signal to trigger compression on another, creating the rhythmic pumping effect of modern EDM.
What It Is
A compressor on one track (usually bass or pad) is triggered by another signal (usually the kick drum), causing it to duck in volume whenever the trigger plays. This creates the characteristic “pumping” or “breathing” effect heard across modern electronic music. Rather than compressing based on the track’s own dynamics, the compressor responds to an external source, creating rhythmic volume changes tied to the beat.
How It’s Done
Route the kick drum (or another rhythmic source) to the sidechain input of a compressor placed on the bass, pad, or mix bus. Set the attack to 0 (or near-zero) so the compressor reacts instantly to the kick. Adjust the release to taste — longer release times create a more dramatic, obvious pumping effect, while shorter release times create a subtler ducking. The threshold and ratio control how much the signal ducks. Some producers use a dedicated “ghost kick” — a muted kick track that triggers the sidechain without being heard — to create rhythmic movement independent of the audible kick pattern. Sidechain EQ allows you to duck only specific frequencies, keeping the highs present while the lows pump.
Where You’ll Hear It
Daft Punk’s “One More Time” is the textbook example — that unmistakable pumping bass and synth. Virtually all modern EDM, from house to trance to dubstep, relies on sidechain compression. French house made it a defining feature. It’s also used subtly across pop and hip-hop production to create space between the kick and bass without volume automation.
For Producers
Sidechain compression is the fundamental mixing and creative tool for any electronic music producer. Start with attack at 0 and release around 100–200ms, then adjust the release to control the pump shape. Longer release = more obvious pump. Use sidechain EQ on the detector to only respond to the low frequencies of the kick, preventing hi-hats from triggering the compressor. Ghost kicks (muted trigger tracks) let you create rhythmic movement without audible kicks — essential for breakdowns and intros. Multiband sidechain compression ducks only the low end, keeping mids and highs intact for a more transparent effect. Volume-shaping plugins like LFOTool or Trackspacer offer more precise control than traditional compressors.