MBM Audio Pluginmagic.ride
Precision Vocal Leveling
Automatically rides the gain of vocal recordings to maintain consistent levels — like a skilled engineer riding a fader.
Quick Start
- 1
Insert on your vocal track
Add magic.ride as an insert effect on your vocal channel, early in the chain (before compression).
- 2
Click AUTO-TARGET
Play a representative section (verse + chorus) and click AUTO-TARGET. The plugin analyzes your vocal for 3 seconds and sets optimal TARGET, RANGE, and SPEED.
- 3
Fine-tune and let it ride
Adjust TARGET ±2-3 dB if needed. Set SPEED based on tempo (faster for rap, slower for ballads). Watch the gain curve in the waveform — you're done!
Main Controls
TARGET
Sets the target level where you want your vocal to sit consistently. Uses RMS/LUFS detection to measure average vocal level and adjusts gain to maintain this target.
RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
Use the AUTO-TARGET button to analyze your vocal and automatically set this. Lower values = quieter vocal, higher values = more prominent.
RANGE
Sets the maximum amount of gain boost or cut the plugin can apply. Split equally between boost and cut (e.g., 12 dB range = ±6 dB of gain adjustment).
RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
Too much range (>18 dB) can sound unnatural. Too little (<6 dB) may not catch all dynamics. Watch the range lines in the waveform display.
SPEED
Controls how quickly the plugin responds to level changes. Automatically adjusts attack and release times.
RECOMMENDED SETTINGS
Faster speeds catch quick level changes but can sound more 'worked'. Use NATURAL mode with fast speeds to maintain musical feel.
GAIN Meter
Shows real-time gain changes being applied. Center = 0 dB, cyan = boost, purple = cut.
If constantly at max/min, increase RANGE or adjust TARGET. Minimal movement means the vocal is already well-balanced.
Feature Toggles
NATURAL
Preserves the natural dynamics and expression of the performance by reducing gain adjustment during intentional dynamics (crescendos, emphasized words).
Turn ON for expressive, dynamic singing. Turn OFF for consistent speech or maximum leveling.
SMART SILENCE
Automatically reduces gain during silence or very quiet passages to prevent amplifying noise floor.
Turn ON for recordings with breath noise or room ambience. Turn OFF for clean studio recordings.
AUTO-TARGET
Click to activate 3-second learning mode. Analyzes your vocal and automatically sets TARGET, RANGE, and SPEED based on the audio.
Use at the start of your session. Play a representative section including both quiet and loud moments.
Tips for Best Results
Recording
- Record vocals averaging around -18 dB before processing
- Use good mic technique — consistent distance from mic
- Clean recordings give the best results
Mixing
- Place magic.ride early in your chain (before heavy compression)
- Use it for macro dynamics, follow with compressor for micro dynamics
- The two tools work together beautifully
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don't over-range (>18 dB can sound unnatural)
- Don't set TARGET too high (risk clipping)
- Don't ignore the waveform — visual feedback is your friend
- Always check bypassed sound to ensure improvement
FAQ
System Requirements
macOS
- macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later
- AU (Audio Unit), VST3
- Intel & Apple Silicon (Universal Binary)
Windows
- Windows 10 or later
- VST3
- 64-bit only
Compatible DAWs
Need Help?
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