DE-ESSER
The De-esser softens sharp s, t and sh sounds in a vocal. It turns down the high part when those sounds stand out, rather than darkening the whole recording.
Controls
AMOUNT
- Range
- 0% to 100%
- Default
- 50%
Makes the De-esser catch more of the sharp consonants and reduce them further as you turn it up. Back it off if words start to sound lisped or lose their crispness.
FREQ
- Range
- 3.0k to 10k
- Default
- 4.5k
Sets where the high part being watched and softened begins. Lower it to catch a lower, harsher hiss, or raise it to focus on the very top and leave more of the voice alone.
Start here
For a sung vocal, set AMOUNT to 50% and FREQ to 4.5k. Loop a phrase with clear s sounds, then lower AMOUNT if they sound lisped. If the harshness sits lower than the effect catches, ease FREQ down while checking that vowels stay clear.
Questions
How do I soften harsh s sounds without making my vocal dull?
Use the De-esser to reduce the highs when sharp consonants stand out. Listen to a whole phrase as you adjust AMOUNT, so the s sounds soften without losing the clarity of the words.
Should I use the De-esser or EQ for a bright vocal?
Use the De-esser when individual consonants jump out but the rest of the voice sounds right. If the whole vocal is too bright throughout the phrase, shape its overall tone with the EQ.