DSP
BOB DENNIS ON DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING

Parallel dynamics processing was part of the 1960's hit Motown Sound, where they applied excessive equalization and over compressed the vocal, but blended it in resulting in a fairly natural, but intense vocal sound.  I have successfully applied this idea to mastering with good success and am currently trying out different blends and parameters.  To begin the subject of parallel dynamics processing I want to reference my 1998 article called The Exciting Compressor, which explains the Motown originated process. 

Although the exciting compressor is a mixing trick for getting clear vocals that are "surrounded" by the track, it has application in mastering when you modify the parameters to values that you would normally encounter in the mastering process.

Mastering Exciter Demo:

The following link is to a sample mix used to demonstrate the extra impact that a parallel mastering exciter can make in mastering.  As the mix plays, you will hear the mastering exciter taken in and out of the mix every 2-3 bars.

The production of Kandi Momma was recorded by Recording Institute of Detroit students and interns in the Music Producer program.  It is in a Funk/Hip-Hop style, performed by "Big C," a Detroit area artist. Copyright 2004, All rights are reserved by the tune's authors and producers.

GO HERE TO LISTEN TO THE DEMO  
NOTE: >1 MB MP3 FILE - ON DIAL UP, RIGHT CLICK LINK AND USE "SAVE TARGET AS" TO DOWNLOAD