Is anyone successfully using the Powercore Master X3?
I'm finding it a right pain. No matter what compression settings I use, it still amplifies the quiet bits way too much - breakdowns are now way too much!

Any tips?

Can't you automate the threshold?

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When using compression on a complete mix, it's pretty usual to use very low ratio's. (I'd say 1,5:1 maximum). You don't want to squash the sound to death, you just want to work it gently on the overal signal (so very low thresholds also). Same for multiband.

Honestly, if you want to get things loud and still retain some macrodynamics, you can't really rely on master compression only.

Using decent compression in the mixing stage (not compression in the way of shaping sound like you would on kicks for example, but more to restrain the dynamics of the instruments/tracks) will already do wonders.

Don't be afraid to actively change volumes with fades in the mastering stage, it's done a lot. If a breakdown is too loud, but sounds good for the rest, there's nothing wrong with fading it down a bit. It's best done manually, as you can follow the music better than an algorithm can.

i use X5 for the last 4 months and basiclly it's the same thing...i think the problem comes from your mix.before you try mastering your track you should go deeply into it,for sure there are some eq's to be done....if none of the X3 presets sound good for you than it is an mix problem.

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Originally posted by tonkproject i use X5 for the last 4 months and basiclly it's the same thing...i think the problem comes from your mix.before you try mastering your track you should go deeply into it,for sure there are some eq's to be done....if none of the X3 presets sound good for you than it is an mix problem.

Fair point, thing is though I don't have the same problem using the Waves Linear Multiband which I'll probably stick to now.

Yah, basically be careful when compressing the entire mix. I wouldnt even do it until you are finished the mix. Just compress things seperatly, like our bass and drums and pads and leads. I've heard great things about the X5, so just stick with her.

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