Waves Vocal Rider: Automatic Vocal Level Control

Waves Vocal Rider automatically adjusts the level of a vocal track. It can help fit the vocal to the song while reducing the time and effort spent on conventional automation. Controls for the target level, the amount and speed of fader movement, and sidechain input from the backing track allow fine adjustments for a natural, polished vocal sound. Considering gain reduction when ordering effects can also help the vocal sit naturally in the mix.

Adjust vocal levels easily with Vocal Rider

The vocal track has a major impact on the quality of a song.

Recording in a good environment with good equipment is important,
but so is adjusting the level afterward with automation.

That work can, however, take considerable time and effort.

Waves Vocal Rider automates this task.

Vocal Rider tutorial video

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Video highlights: Setting the automation target

Use “Target” to set the reference level for adjustment.
The yellow meter shows the current vocal level; the fader automatically moves up or down relative to the target.

Video highlights: Adjusting the controls

1. Set the amount of fader movement.
2. Set the fader speed.
Adjust it to suit the performance and the song’s tempo.
3. Set the maximum and minimum levels for fader movement.
The fader will not move beyond these limits.

Video highlights: Using the sidechain

Feed the backing track into the sidechain
so the fader adjusts with the level of the music in mind.

This helps the vocal sit in the backing track and contributes to the quality of the mix.

Automation order and gain reduction

Compressor and automation order
This technique considers gain reduction when routing the order of effects. It can produce a particularly natural compression effect on vocals.

Benefits of recording through a hardware compressor

Tips for recording through a compressor
With digital effects in DAWs so prevalent, many people may wonder why they would record through a compressor. We explore that question and discuss how hardware compressors are commonly used when recording with compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Does Vocal Rider completely eliminate the need for manual automation?

Vocal Rider can save considerable time through automation, but it is not entirely automatic: parameters such as Target and speed still need to be adjusted for the song. Manual fine-tuning may also be needed.

Q2. What is the benefit of using the sidechain?

Feeding the backing track into the sidechain lets Vocal Rider adjust the vocal level with changes in the overall music level in mind. This helps the vocal sit naturally in the backing track and improves the balance of the mix.

Q3. Which DAWs can use Vocal Rider?

Waves plug-ins support formats such as AU, VST and AAX and can be used in major DAWs including Cubase, Logic and Pro Tools. Check the official website for details.

Q4. Does the order matter when combining a compressor and Vocal Rider?

Yes. The article discusses effect order in relation to gain reduction; choosing the order of compression and automation can help produce a more natural vocal sound.