Use Inflator Like A Pro
When it comes to upward processing, the first processor that usually comes to our mind is the legendary plugin by Sonnox named Oxford Inflator. But, how can we use it to get the most out of it?
In this blog post, my goal is to explain the process of using this type of upward processor in the way of achieving the most out of it. Besides being just an upward processor, Inflator also introduces a very interesting sound, so that's another thing that separates it from the rest of the plugins out there on the market.
Please avoid copying any strict values you see in this blog post because every single instrument/vocals/mix/master is different and will require different treatment.
Enhancing drums using Inflator
Upward Processing on drums
Upward processing works wonderful on drums. With inflator, I'm able to give more details and analog vibe & warmth to my drums. Playing with the effect & curve faders to taste you'll be able to determine the right amount of processing. The effect fader basically works like a mix knob. It determines the amount of processing engaged. Curve fader introduces the amount of saturation which sounds simply amazing. Finally, match the input & output level to avoid getting tricked by "louder is better".
Huge Kick using Inflator
Ever used Inflator on the kick? Try it!
As mentioned above in this blog post, Inflator is great for bringing quieter parts of an audio signal up, so that's why I used it as my maximization tool for reaching the desired punch on the kick.
Increase the effect, play with the curve in order to determine the right amount of saturation you want and finally match the input & output gain. Try doing this in parallel too! Inflator sounds amazing when used as a parallel processing effect, and not many people know that.
Upfront Vocals using Inflator
The combination of compression & inflator is insane!
Another great usage is to actually combine FabFilter Pro C2 with Inflator to make your vocals more upfront in the mix! But, how can we achieve that?
In this example, I used Pro C2 with fast attack, faster release, 1-2ms Lookahead and Vocal algorithm followed by Inflator to increase details and upward processing which results in more texture and nice sound overall. 5-6dB of gain reduction on your compressor is absolutely enough and will do the job perfectly. However, my advice is to stick to what you hear and how you like what you hear. Adjust these values to your taste, not to any strict values mentioned here or anywhere else.
If you want to add a recommendation for the future blog post and get featured on, feel free to reach to our DM on Instagram or use our e-mail address: marko@md3sign.com
Better Translation using Inflator
Make sure to choose a Linear Phase mode!!!
To make your mix range sound a bit richer and more full, send your mix to a parallel channel, isolate the mid range using a LINEAR PHASE EQ and insert Inflator after your EQ. Dial the Inflator settings to your taste (our advice is to set the effect fader at 100%), match the I/O and enjoy the result. This will help your mix to translate better across multiple consumer listening devices such as laptop, headphones, car etc.
More Presence using Inflator
Try using Inflator on your guitars too!
In this case, I mixed a rock song, and my guitars missed some presence and details, so I used my Inflator to gain more presence and overall texture I missed. Again, you can use it in parallel, but even with this simple approach, it works great. Definitely consider trying it in your next session.
Mastering using Inflator
Can you use Inflator in mastering? Yes, you can.
When used in mastering, I usually put it after I used my EQ and compressor (this of course depends from track to track), but sometimes I find it working very well right before my final limiter.
Inflator will actually introduce perceived loudness and fullness you need without squashing your signal and making it sound lifeless. Instead, it will respect the dynamics and give decent results.
Sonnox Oxford Inflator: Starting Points
Remember to tweak these settings to your taste.
As the developers (Sonnox) advise, start with the effect all the way up to 100%, turn CLIP 0dB on, match the I/O, deselect the band split function and play with the curve fader to your taste.
This is just a starting point. Feel free to readjust it later accordingly to your track and your personal taste.
Conclusion:
Using Inflator is, as you can see, very simple and straight forward. All you need is some basic knowledge of what each fader does and to recognize where you actually want to use it. It's a great tool, and I can fully recommend it to anyone. Since this is not a sponsored blog, you already know how much I love Inflator and that I'm using it in almost every single mix of mine. Such a great tool to have!If you want to add a recommendation for the future blog post and get featured on, feel free to reach to our DM on Instagram or use our e-mail address: marko@md3sign.com
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