Advanced Techniques with Overdrive and Saturation

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Overdrive and saturation are powerful effects that originate in the analog domain. From big recording consoles and tape machines to tube amps and distortion pedals, these effects have been at the heart and soul of many beloved pieces of audio equipment since the dawn of recorded music. In these lessons, you'll learn how to leverage these common, but often overlooked, tools to add "colors" to your sounds and mixes. From subtle to heavy, you can make your sonics glue into each other for cohesion or make certain elements cut through the mix. You'll also gain new insights on the relationship between harmonic distortion, dynamics, and the frequency spectrum.

Lesson topics include:

  • Introduction to Saturation and Overdrive
  • Overdrive and Circuit Drive
  • Saturator and Waveshaping
  • 808 Bass Saturation
  • Saturation and Drive in Synthesis
  • Echo Overdrive and Spacialization
  • Filtered Saturation
  • Controlling Dynamics
  • Vocal Enhancement


Your Instructor


Ben Cantil
Ben Cantil

Encanti is the artist name of Ben Cantil, half of audio/visual duo Zebbler Encanti Experience with VJ Peter ‘Zebbler’ Berdovsky (widely known for his work with Shpongle and EOTO over the years). ZEE releases music regularly on experimental electronic labels Wakaan and Gravitas Recordings; and has collaborated with artists such as Mr. Bill, Of The Trees, Au5, and acclaimed vocalist Ganavya Doraiswamy.


Cantil is also an Assistant Professor of Music Production, Technology, and Innovation at Berklee Valencia in Valencia, Spain, where he teaches electronic music production and sound design. As an educator, Ben approaches electronic music as a multidisciplinary art form that unifies traditional song writing with sound design, arranging, and audio engineering. By focusing primarily creative strategies and philosophy, his workshops are classes aim to enable and inspire musicians of all backgrounds and skill levels, regardless of what instruments or software they use.


Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
If you purchase the course individually, you have lifetime access to the content. If you sign up for a membership, you'll have unlimited access to this course for as long as you keep your membership active.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.