While changing the volume of audio and software instruments in Logic Pro is a straightforward task, different methods are better suited to managing specific audio contexts. Some ways of altering the volume may even complicate your mixing process down the line, so make sure you’re applying the right method to provide creative freedom rather than limitations.
1. Volume Faders
In Logic Pro, you can find horizontal volume faders in the track header of each track, and vertical faders in the left and right channel strips found in the inspector section (I) on the left.
The horizontal faders in the track header are only visible if you are sufficiently zoomed in (Cmd + up/down arrow). However, it’s a good idea to check your left inspector channel strip, which should show the selected track, to read the exact dB level.
The right inspector channel strip will often show the Stereo Output channel with its corresponding fader. It’s best to leave this fader untouched; use it to monitor the overall dB level of your output and mix. For more mixing tips, look into some ofthe best practices to improve your production skills.
If you’ve set up a send that routes a track to a bus/aux track, click on theSendsin the left channel strip, and you’re able to then adjust its volume in the right inspector channel strip.
These faders represent the go-to method to quickly and precisely alter the level of all your audio elements.
Another way you can do this in a streamlined manner is by pressingXto show the mixing window. This enables you to view all your channel strips, so you can change their volume while reading their exact dB levels.
Remember to monitor the levels of your tracks to avoid clipping. If you’re new to Logic, look intothe beginner’s guide to Logic Pro.
2. Region Inspector
The Region Inspector can be used in Logic Pro to change the gain of audio regions. This makes it a great tool for adjusting the level of individual/selected audio regions rather than a universal volume change to a given audio track.
To do so, press the arrow next toRegionin the inspector window, and double-click on the field next toGainin the drop-down menu. Then, input your desired positive/negative dB value.
You can also press theMoreoption in the Region Inspector to quicklyfade audio regions in Logic Proor evenreverse your audio in Logic Pro.
The level of MIDI regions cannot be altered in the same way via the Region Inspector. One workaround is to convert your MIDI regions into audio regions via bouncing (Ctrl + B). Another method is to go into the Piano Roll editor and change the velocity of your MIDI notes.
3. MIDI Velocity Values
Software instruments determine how loud or soft they play a MIDI note via its velocity value. This often determines the articulation of a MIDI note.
Double-click on a MIDI region in Logic Pro to open up the Piano Roll Editor (P). You can then select single/multiple MIDI notes and alter their velocity using theVelocityslider in the bottom-left.
One way you’re able to add life to your MIDI instruments is to randomize the velocity of your MIDI notes within a specified range. Look intothe best MIDI editing tools in Logic Profor more ways to improve your MIDI regions.
4. Track and Region Volume Automation
Track and region volume automation provides you with tools to dynamically change the volume of a given track or region over time. Learnhow to use automationto make the most of this essential tool.
To get started, pressAto enable automation mode, and make sureVolumeis selected in the track header (next to the dB level). Track automation is enabled by default which allows you to automate changes to the entire track. Alternatively, you can press the blueTrackbutton to switch it toRegion; this means any automation changes you make are confined to that region.
Your volume fader will lock on to any track automation changes you make; any manual volume fader edit post-track automation will not take effect. Region automation can be beneficial as it restricts this lock-on effect to specific regions and not the entire track.
One way to alter the volume of a track even after track automation is set is to hover over the dB value box whereTrimshould appear. Then drag up or down to apply a universal volume change to all automated levels and tweaks.
5. Gain Plugins
An alternative to complete reliance on volume faders and volume automation is the use of Logic’s stock gain plugin or other gain tools. Just like faders, you can increase or reduce the dB of a given track via the gain dial in such plugins.
The reason for doing so is to avoid the limitations that occur when you apply volume automation on a track.
Automate the gain of your gain plugin instead of your track’s volume. This will allow you to continue to edit with your volume faders freely throughout your mixing process.
6. In-Built Plugin Output Controls
Many plugins have an output slider that will impact the level of the track they are working on. Generally, EQs and compressors are plugins you will want to use this feature on.
The reason is that, in most cases, you find a good level for your track(s) before the use of such plugins. In other words, EQs and compressors aren’t used as a tool to get the volume level you’re after; they refine and tighten up your sound. As a result, you want to get the same volume level on a track pre- and post-compression and equalization.
If your EQ cuts reduce the level of your track by 2 dB, push up the output/gain option by 2 dB. If your compressor applies 3 dB of gain reduction, push up the make-up gain/output control by 3 dB. For more information on these plugins, look intohow to use EQsandhow to use compression plugins.
7. Master Volume Slider
Similar to the Stereo Output, there often isn’t much reason to increase the Master Volume Slider (found in the top-right above the workspace area or far-right in the mixing window). Doing so can impact the overall sonic quality of your work.
However, you may want to max the volume of the Master Slider and Stereo Output if your laptop or device has a problem with its audio output, and you happen to be without headphones or speakers. Conversely, you may need to drop the volume rapidly to avoid clipping and screeching feedback issues.
Just remember to reset (Alt + click) the sliders at the end as such changes can ruin a mix and subsequent mastering attempts.
Master the Balance of Levels in Logic Pro
Changing the volume in Logic Pro is simple; mastering the different methods takes time. Use the volume faders in the track headers, inspector channel strips, and mixing window to monitor and make quick changes to the dB levels. Go for the Region Inspector to edit the level of individual audio regions, and the Piano Roll Editor to change the velocity of MIDI notes.
Use gain plugins to get around the limitations of track volume automation, and plugin output controls to balance levels pre- and post-effects. Add in the Master Volume slider for emergencies, and you have a volume tool for every situation in Logic Pro.
