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Tips, technique, and product news from the Kiive team.
Aug 03, 2026
Insert vs Send Effects: When Should You Use Each?
The same effect can behave very differently on an insert and an aux return. Here is how to choose the right routing for the...
Jul 28, 2026
Channel Strip vs Separate Plugins: Which Should You Use?
A channel strip and a custom plugin chain can shape the same source, but they push you toward different decisions. Here is how to...
Jul 20, 2026
How Bus Compression Works and Where to Use It
Bus compression is how separate tracks start sounding like a record. Here's how glue works, where it goes beyond the mix bus, and the...
Jul 13, 2026
Rotary vs Chorus: Which One Your Mix Actually Needs
Rotary and chorus both add movement, but they solve completely different problems. Here's what each one actually does, where to use them on guitars,...
Jul 08, 2024
A Brief History of Tube Preamps
Introduction Tube preamps have been a cornerstone in the world of audio production for decades. Their warm, rich sound has been coveted by musicians...
Jun 11, 2024
A Brief History of Reverb Hardware Units
Introduction Reverb, short for reverberation, is a crucial effect in audio production that simulates the sound reflections in a space, creating a sense of...
Jun 03, 2024
4 Quick Tips for Mixing Vocals
Introduction Mixing vocals is one of the most crucial steps in music production. Getting it right can make your track stand out, ensuring the...
May 27, 2024
A Short History of the Tube Compressor
The Early Days The history of the tube compressor dates back to the early days of audio engineering in the 1930s and 1940s. Along...
May 06, 2024
How to Use A Channel Strip Plugin | S-Quick Strip
What are Channel Strips? Channel strips, both in hardware form, and plugins are essential tools for audio engineers and producers, offering a wide range...
Apr 22, 2024
4 Tips for an Explosive Mix Bus
Introduction Creating a powerful and polished mix bus is crucial for modern music production, as it serves as the final stage where all tracks...
Apr 18, 2024
Taming the Harsh Cymbal Sounds in a Modern Mix
Cymbals are what add energy and life to a drum performance and overall sound of a track. But too often, these instruments can bring...
Apr 16, 2024
3 Ways to Add Creative Distortion
In the realm of music production, the power of distortion is often harnessed to infuse tracks with a unique character and vibe. While distortion...