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EDM Recipe #3: A Technique for Widening Track Sounds

EDM RecipesPublished 2023.04.01Updated 2026.07.18
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In EDM production, you can implement a technique that gives tracks depth and width in three steps. By combining the simple methods of duplicating the audio, separating it left and right with panning, and applying a delay (set to 10 ms) to one side, you can turn a mono sound into a rich sound with a sense of stereo. It can be applied to many parts, such as claps, synths and vocals, and it is an effective DTM technique for achieving a professional sense of loudness.

Controlling a Track's Sense of Depth

EDM Recipe 3 thumbnail

Part 3 introduces a technique for widening sounds to finish them with a three-dimensional feel.
This time, we introduce a technique that is easy to apply, so please put it into practice!

A Technique for Widening Sounds

  1. 1STEP1 – Duplicate the sound
  2. 2STEP2 – Split the sound left and right with panning
  3. 3STEP3 – Insert a delay on one of the sounds

First, let's check what the sound is like when you apply what we introduce here.

Using the technique spreads the sound more to the left and right, giving it a three-dimensional feel.
From here, we introduce the technique for widening the sound step by step, so please read to the end.

Duplicate the Sound

This time, we explain widening using this clap sound.

First, duplicate this sound.

▶︎ Duplicating the sound
Duplicate

Split the Sound Left and Right with Panning

Once the sound is duplicated, next use [panning] to send the sounds left and right.
For the panning, one is set to [50R] and the other to [50L].

▶︎ Splitting the sound left and right with panning

Insert a Delay on One of the Sounds

Once the panning is done, finally insert a [Delay] on one of the sounds.
▶︎ Delay

Here are the steps for setting up the delay.

  • 1_Set the delay's Wet to 100%
  • 2_Set Feedback to 0%
  • 3_Set the delay mode so the time can be specified in milliseconds
  • 4_Set the delay time to 10 ms

▶︎ Setting the delay's Wet to 100%

▶︎ Setting Feedback to 0%

▶︎ Setting the delay mode and time

This widens the clap sound.

This technique can be used not only on claps but on all kinds of parts you want to widen.
Using this technique, you can easily create width and finish the sound with a sense of stereo.
Please master this technique and try it in your own songs!
See you in the next recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are the basic steps of the technique for widening track sounds?

There are three steps: (1) duplicate the audio, (2) pan the copies left and right (50R/50L), and (3) insert a delay on one side (Wet 100%, Feedback 0%, 10 ms). Processing in this order gives a sound with a three-dimensional feel.

Q2. What are the important values in the delay settings?

Three settings are most important: Wet at 100%, Feedback at 0%, and a delay time of 10 ms. These values achieve a natural widening effect.

Q3. Can this technique be used on any sound?

Yes, it can be applied to various elements you want to widen, such as claps, synths, vocals and other parts. It can strengthen the stereo image of the whole song.