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How does saturation really work? Maybe you’ve come across terms like symmetric and asymmetric saturation, odd and even harmonics, and pre-saturation EQ? All of this can get quite complex – we’re happy to help guide you through the jungle that is saturation, and also give you tips on some really awesome saturation tools that can lift your mixes!
Are you curious to read more about production and mixing-related topics?
– Read more about compression
– Read more about clippers
What is saturation in music and mixing?
Saturation is a form of distortion used in music production to give sound warmth, fullness, and character. What the saturation tool does is add harmonics (or extra frequencies) above the fundamental frequency of a sound. When audio signals are slightly overdriven in this way, the sound gets colored – this can be done more or less subtly, creating different sonic characters. There are two main types of saturation:
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Symmetric saturation: Here the signal is clipped equally in both the positive and negative parts of the waveform. This often results in primarily odd harmonics (e.g., third, fifth harmonics) which can give a clearer, more distinct, and sometimes sharper tone.
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Asymmetric saturation: In this case, the signal is clipped unevenly in the positive and negative parts, generating both even and odd harmonics. This often results in a warmer and softer character, similar to what occurs in tube-based saturation.
The difference between even and odd harmonics is important: even harmonics often sound warmer and more natural, while odd harmonics can give a more aggressive and distinct tone.
Fun fact: Distortion can refer both to all types of clipping of an audio signal – like saturation and overdrive – and to the harder, more aggressive variant where the signal is clipped heavily. In the digital world, it is common that analog circuits – like tubes, tape, or transformers – are emulated in plug-ins, as the goal is to add different types of harmonics to your sound: tubes tend to provide a mix of even and odd harmonics (with even harmonics often dominating in mild overdrive), while tape and transformers often produce more odd harmonics, especially at higher levels – giving a rawer and more characterful sound.
Increased control over saturation
Why is pre-saturation EQ so important?
Before applying saturation, it can be wise to use an EQ to shape the signal – unless you’re going for more unpredictable and raw saturation, of course. A classic trick is to use EQ both before and after the saturation. Many plugins, like Abbey Road Saturator from Waves, have this built in. The idea is that you can, for example, reduce the highs with a shelf before saturation – so they don’t get over-saturated – and then bring back the highs afterward. This way you “protect” sensitive frequencies but keep tonal balance.
Pre-saturation EQ thus helps to:
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Create more controlled saturation – e.g., by taming harsh peaks or excessive bass.
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Emphasize desired frequency ranges, like midrange, to add more color and clarity to the saturation.
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Avoid unwanted artifacts, such as the sound becoming muddy or harsh.
Considering pre- (and post-) EQ can be the difference between a messy clutter and a musical, harmonious saturation.
Compression and multiband saturation
Compressing before saturation can give a more even and controlled saturation:
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Compression before saturation: Smooths out dynamics and gives the saturation a more consistent “grip” on the sound. It can also enhance the character and warmth of the sound.
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Multiband saturation: Unlike regular saturation where the whole signal is treated equally, a multiband saturator splits the signal into frequency bands and applies saturation separately to each band. This makes it possible to:
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Treat bass, midrange, and treble differently for more precision.
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Avoid over-saturation of certain frequencies (e.g., bass) while allowing other frequencies to get more character.
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Maintain clarity and dynamics in the mix.
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Multiband saturation is thus a powerful tool for more advanced sound shaping and mixing.
Tips on good saturation plugins
Here are some popular saturation plugins with their features and uses:
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Decapitator (Soundtoys)
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What it does: Emulates analog tube and tape saturation.
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Good for: Versatile warmth and powerful distortion, works well on everything from drums to vocals.
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Highlights: Five different saturation types and a “punish” button for extra distortion.
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Multiband: No.
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Downside: Can get quite aggressive, not always for subtle saturation.
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Saturn (FabFilter)
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What it does: Multiband saturation with many types of saturation and distortion.
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Good for: Precise control over saturation and creative sound design.
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Highlights: Flexible multiband, wide range of saturation types, modulation options.
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Multiband: Yes.
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Downside: Somewhat complex interface for beginners.
Saturation Knob (Softube)
- What it does: Simple and effective saturation with just one knob.
- Good for: Quick and easy warmth and saturation on almost anything.
- Notable features: Super easy to use, very transparent until you crank it up.
- Multiband: No.
- Downside: Limited control, might feel a bit “basic” for advanced users.
How to use saturation in mixing?
Saturation can be used in several ways in mixing:
- On individual tracks to add warmth and character.
- On buses or groups to glue sounds together.
- On the master bus to add subtle warmth and cohesion.
Be cautious with saturation on the master bus, as it can easily lead to over-processing and loss of clarity.
Start subtle, and use your ears.
In Conclusion
Thank you for reading our article on saturation. If you still feel like it’s a bit tricky, but you’re eager to take your music to the next level, feel free to reach out to us! At KMR Studios, we offer professional help with production, mixing, mastering, and tutoring. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we can guide you through the process and help bring out the best in your music. Contact us to book a consultation or ask questions — we’re here to help!
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