UAD Spotlight: How to Mix Huge Rock Guitars

Learn the recipe for larger-than-life tone.

In the second installment of our rock mixing masterclass with Drew Mazurek, you'll get a step-by-step overview of his guitar processing chain. With credits ranging from Foo Fighters to Jimmy Eat World, Drew reveals everything that goes into getting powerful, radio-ready guitar tones. 

Start with Tape Saturation

The sound of analog tape is at the heart of every classic recording. Drew opts to recreate it directly in LUNA, reaching for the Studer A800 multichannel tape extension. With the Ampex 456 tape model running at 15 IPS, it introduces subtle tape saturation and distinct harmonics to the guitar tracks.

Add Classic Tone with an Analog Channel Strip

Next in the chain is the Neve 1073. Here, Drew uses this single classic preamp emulation for both additional saturation and EQ. By pushing the input gain 10 dB and pulling the output fader down to compensate, Drew adds additional preamp coloration to the guitars. In addition, he employs the high-pass filter to carve out unnecessary low end.

"The Neve 1073 is great for adding saturation. And it works alongside other tape plug-ins in your chain."  

Drew Mazurek

Be Bold with Equalization

Next comes the Pultec EQP-1A. Known for its tube warmth and sweeping EQ curves, Drew uses the well known “Pultec trick” by simultaneously boosting and cutting the low end to add weight. He also aggressively cuts unnecessary high end, while also boosting the upper midrange for extra bite and aggression.

Bring it All Together with Compression

The final plug-in in Drew’s guitar processing chain is the EL8 Distressor. Using it for both tone and subtle compression, this last unit adds the control and glue needed to take guitars to the next level.

Use Reverb to Taste

For the final piece of the puzzle, Drew gives two options to add space to the guitars in this track. First up, he uses Ocean Way Studios to give subtle depth and realism. If a more modern option is what you're after, he also showcases the AMS RMX16 for adding width and character.

— UA Staff

Related Articles:

• UAD Spotlight: Mixing Guitars with Reverb and Modulation

• UAD Spotlight: How to Reamp in Your DAW

• UAD Spotlight: How to Mix Drums Like a Pro With UAD Plug-Ins