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Intermediate
14 min

Reverb and Delay for Garage

Reverb and delay create the sense of space that makes mixes feel professional. Learn to use these effects without drowning your track in mud.

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Choosing Reverb Types

TypeCharacterBest For
PlateBright, smooth, denseVocals, snares
HallLarge, natural, spaciousPads, strings, ambient sections
RoomSmall, intimate, realisticDrums, percussion
SpringBoingy, lo-fi characterDub effects, creative use

Reverb Settings for UKG

Typical UKG Reverb Settings

  • Decay time: 1-2 seconds (shorter than you think)
  • Pre-delay: 20-50ms (separates dry from wet)
  • High cut: 6-10kHz (prevents harshness)
  • Low cut: 150-300Hz (prevents mud)
  • Mix level: 10-30% (less is more)

Delay for Rhythm

Tempo-synced delay creates rhythmic interest:

Sync ValueCharacterUse Case
1/16Tight, doublingThickening vocals, leads
1/8Rhythmic, bouncyGarage classic delay
1/4Spacious, echoDub-influenced tracks
Dotted 1/8Off-beat, swungCreates movement

Using Sends vs Inserts

Always use reverb and delay on send channels, not inserts:

  • Multiple tracks can share the same reverb (cohesion)
  • Independent control over wet signal (EQ, compression)
  • CPU efficient (one reverb instance for many tracks)
  • Easier to automate send levels

EQing Your Reverbs

Essential Reverb EQ

  • High-pass at 200-400Hz (remove mud)
  • Low-pass at 8-12kHz (remove harshness)
  • Cut problem frequencies from source in reverb too
  • Slight presence boost (2-4kHz) can help reverb cut through

Summary

Reverb and delay add depth and dimension, but too much makes mixes muddy and distant. Use sends not inserts, EQ your reverbs, and keep decay times shorter than you think. The goal is to add space while maintaining punch and clarity.

Devil's Advocate

Advanced thinking for experienced producers

"Is reverb overused in modern production?"

Dry, upfront mixes are having a moment. Sometimes the most impactful choice is to leave elements completely dry.

Alternative Workflows to Try

  • 1.Use very short reverbs for 'ambience' without obvious space
  • 2.Try saturation or chorus instead of reverb for depth
  • 3.Use room mics or recorded ambience instead of artificial reverb

Critical Thinking Traps

Trap: "Everything needs reverb"

Reality: Dry elements create contrast and punch.

Trap: "More reverb = more professional"

Reality: Pro mixes often use less reverb than you'd expect.

Trap: "Long tails sound impressive"

Reality: Short, controlled reverbs often work better in dance music.

Lesson Downloads

Reverb & Delay IR Pack

Impulse responses for UKG

Send FX Templates

Pre-configured send setups

What You'll Learn

  • 1
    Choosing the right reverb type (hall, plate, spring)
  • 2
    Delay settings for rhythmic interest
  • 3
    Tempo-synced vs free-running delays
  • 4
    Using reverb/delay sends effectively

Continue Learning

Compression TechniquesFinal Mix Checklist