Vocals

Mastering Reverse Reverb: A Step-by-Step Guide

Reverse reverb is a creative audio effect that adds a dreamy, swelling sound to vocals, instruments, or samples. It’s often used in genres like pop, rock, and electronic music to create an ethereal or dramatic buildup. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve reverse reverb in your digital audio workstation (DAW).

What You’ll Need

  • A DAW (e.g., Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, FL Studio, etc.)
  • An audio track (e.g., vocals, guitar, or any sound you want to process)
  • A reverb plugin (stock or third-party like Valhalla, FabFilter, etc.)
  • Basic knowledge of your DAW’s audio editing and automation features

Steps to Create Reverse Reverb

  1. Select Your Audio
    • Choose the audio segment you want to apply reverse reverb to (e.g., a vocal phrase or snare hit). Duplicate the track or section to avoid altering the original.
  2. Reverse the Audio
    • In your DAW, select the duplicated audio clip.
    • Use the reverse function (often found in the audio editing or processing menu). For example:
      • In Logic Pro: Go to Functions > Reverse.
      • In Ableton Live: Use the Reverse button in Clip View.
      • In Pro Tools: Select AudioSuite > Reverse.
  3. Add Reverb
    • Insert a reverb plugin on the reversed audio track.
    • Set the reverb to a wet mix (100% wet, 0% dry) to capture only the reverb tail.
    • Adjust reverb settings for desired effect:
      • Decay: 1-3 seconds for a noticeable tail.
      • Pre-delay: Minimal (0-20 ms) for a tighter effect.
      • Tone: Adjust to match your track’s vibe (bright for vocals, warmer for guitars).
    • Render or bounce the track with the reverb applied to create a new audio file.
  4. Reverse the Reverb
    • Take the rendered reverb audio and reverse it again. This creates a swelling reverb effect that builds up to the original sound’s attack.
    • Align the reversed reverb so its peak lines up with the start of the original audio in your arrangement.
  5. Fine-Tune and Blend
    • Trim the reversed reverb clip to avoid unnecessary silence or overly long tails.
    • Adjust the volume of the reverse reverb to blend naturally with the original track.
    • Optionally, apply EQ to cut low-end mud or boost high-end sparkle, ensuring the effect sits well in the mix.
  6. Automate for Impact
    • Use automation to bring the reverse reverb in or out at specific moments (e.g., before a chorus or drop).
    • Experiment with panning or stereo widening for a more immersive effect.

Tips for Best Results

  • Experiment with Reverb Types: Plate or hall reverbs work well for vocals, while shorter rooms suit percussive sounds.
  • Use in Context: Reverse reverb shines in intros, transitions, or to emphasize key lyrics or hits.
  • Layer Sparingly: Too much reverse reverb can clutter the mix. Use it on 1-2 elements for maximum impact.
  • Try Variations: Combine with other effects like delay or pitch-shifting for unique textures.

Example Application

Imagine a vocal line: “Take me away.” Apply reverse reverb to the word “away” so it swells into the phrase, creating a haunting lead-in to the chorus. This technique was famously used in tracks like The Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows” or modern pop like Billie Eilish’s atmospheric intros.

Share Your Results

Try this in your next session at Bridge Recording or your home setup! Share your tracks with reverse reverb on X with #ReverseReverb and #MusicProduction to join the conversation.