Utilizing Tape Emulators

Although there are many different types of audio processing effects, one of them, called the Tape Effect, is mainly used in today's music production. It introduces gentle compression and subtle saturation to the audio signal. Besides that, it's widely praised for its warmth, the epithet you probably heard more than once when talking about analog sound.  

Tape Effect Introduction

The effect type we discuss represents normal sound behavior generated using a tape recorder machine. Old tape recorders introduced saturation, flutter, EQ bumps, etc., onto the incoming audio signal. One of the most significant advantages of the Tape Effect is coloring the audio signal by using harmonic and non‑harmonic distortions, such as those caused by transformers and inductors found in tape recorders. As a result, we get a smooth and warm sound. Moreover, what I find quite helpful is that the tape affects transients that are happening in high frequencies. The tape cannot handle this sudden energy burst in high frequencies. Consequently, it cuts the high-range transients off the frequency spectrum.

Using Kramer Master Tape

Fortunately, we have a large variety of digital tape recorder emulators nowadays. On average, they roughly accurately produce the same Tape Effect. One of the emulators that I like using in my productions is Kramer Master Tape by Waves. It is modeled on the Ampex 350 valve tape machine, one of the most famous tape recorders from the past.

 

Taming High Frequencies

I usually apply this effect when taming the high frequencies in, for example, a rhythm group. Let's check out a track I have started in SoundBridge. Inside, you can see the rhythm group, which includes snare and hi-hat channels.

This group track is already mixed with the rest of the elements in the project, but the high frequencies are much too harsh for my taste. Rather than using an equalizer to attenuate this part of the frequency spectrum, I will use the Kramer Master Tape. Here is how the rhythm group sounds without the Kramer Master Tape plugin.

~ Rhythm Group, Dry

After that, I will place the Kramer Master Tape on the rack of the rhythm group track. Among various parameters within the plugin, I'll be using crucial controls in this example are the Flux, Record input, and Record output. Pushing up the Flux parameter, you can hear how transients of the high frequencies are becoming less and less expressed. Combined with the Record level input and output, you can further adjust the amount of the desired effect. Furthermore, the parameter called 'Speed' determines the actual speed of the tape movement. This means that while on 7.5 ips, the effect introduces heavier Ccutson high frequencies. You can also choose 15 ips mode, which sounds less extreme.

~ Rhythm Group with KTM

In conclusion, let us hear how the full mix sounds with and without the Kramer Master tape applied. I hope you'll like it!

~ Full Mix without KTM

~ Full Mix with KTM