DJ.Studio features a flexible interface for controlling the effects, including a mastering section - both of which have VST compatibility.
In this guide, you'll learn how to get the most out of the effects sections.
Effects
You can find the Effects tab at Studio > Effects Tab at the bottom > Categories > Effects or FX Pack.
Click on an effect parameter to change its setting. These can also be automated in the timeline.
Open the Studio tab at the top of the screen
Select the effects tab at the bottom of the screen
Change an effect parameter.
You will now see a line appear in the timeline based on the effect you changed.
Click on the line to create movable points to automate the effect
DJ.Studio now features the FX Pack, a collection of over 30 effects designed to complement essential tools like Filters, Echo, and Reverb:
You can also add VST plugins to the effect section via 'VST' option in Categories.
Find out more about the DJ.Studio's VST integration here - VSTs in DJ.Studio User Manual
Mastering & Limiter
The Mastering section gives you control over the final output volume, as well as gives you some visual analysis of the frequency content.
You can also use this window to balance the volume between all tracks in your mix, making sure it has a consistent volume level throughout.
Mastering is the final stage of processing applied to an audio file during the production process. This ensures that the dynamic range is correct, the volume is maximized but not excessive, and the volume is consistent.
To master your DJ.Studio mixes:
Open the Master tab from the bottom of the screen.
You will now see the compressor on the left (explained in the next section), and the limiter on the right.
First, set the Ceiling level. This depends on what platform you are releasing your mix on, but typically you want it at around -0.2 to -2 dB. This means that the audio will not get louder than this level.
Next, turn up the Gain control of the limiter, until you see some gain reduction in the right meter. This means that you are maximizing the volume, and the limiter is working correctly to prevent distortion and make the volume more consistent.
When you export your mix, the volume will be fully utilized, but the signal will be clean.
Compressor (For making volume more consistent)
Compressors give you control over the dynamic range of your tracks and mix. This means you can easily make sure that the volume is consistent throughout your mix, so the listeners don't need to keep reaching for their volume control.
There are independent compressors for each track and deck.
To compress tracks:
Open the Master tab.
You will now see a horizontal mixer, showing you all the tracks in your mix. Each channel also includes a separate Gain and Comp control, letting you adjust the volume and dynamic range for each track independently.
Export Settings
There are also a few relevant controls in the export window.
Master Gain - This gives you a final volume output level for the created mix file.
Auto Gain - This toggle enables auto-gain, which will automatically balance the gain levels between each track for a more consistent output.
Use Limiter - This engages a limiter, preventing the audio from going above a certain threshold volume.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mastering, Effects, and Compressor
How can I make sure the volume of each track in my mix is consistent, like an auto-gain function?
On the right side of the screen, below the VU meter, you'll find an A button. Pressing this activates an auto-gain function that looks ahead slightly, balancing quiet and loud parts of your mix.
Additionally, you can adjust the compression of individual tracks in the Master Tab and use the limiter to prevent clipping and ensure all tracks play at a consistent volume.
How to boost a tracks volume?
To boost a track's volume in DJ.Studio, we've got a few options for you:
Track Gain: Each track has its own gain control, perfect for balancing volumes across your mix. Just crank it up for that extra boost!
Track Compressor: If you want to make a track louder without distorting it, try using the track's compressor. Set the threshold to determine the max volume, then increase the gain to match.
Master Limiter: In the Mastering section, you can adjust the overall gain and ceiling for your entire mix. This is great for consistent volume across all tracks.
Track Volume Parameter: Each track also has a volume parameter that you can manually adjust. If you select the track and click the effect block, you can fine-tune the volume to achieve the desired loudness.
If you choose not to use the master limiter, you could even push the gain further by increasing the gain it in the limiter channel. However, be careful—going too far might introduce distortion.
Remember, it's all about balancing these controls to get the perfect sound.
How can I adjust the gain and what are the difference's between the different gains?
DJ.Studio provides three types of gain controls, each serving a different purpose:
1. Master Gain
What it does: Adjusts the volume of the entire mix up or down by the selected amount. This affects the final output but does not change the relative levels of individual tracks.
Where to find it: In the export settings when exporting your mix.
2. Track Gain (Individual Tracks)
What it does: Adjusts the volume of a single track without affecting the other tracks in the mix.
Where to find it:
Select a track and go to Effects, or
Open the Master Tab and locate the track’s gain control (above the compressor on individual tracks).
3. Limiter Gain
What it does: The gain of the limiter works differently from other gain controls. Instead of simply increasing volume, it boosts the track’s level until it reaches the set ceiling (the maximum allowed volume). This ensures a controlled loudness level throughout your mix.
Where to find it: Inside the Master Tab.