My first almost full VSL piece -Need help!

[Chris Hesketh]

I have just completed this piece on my new studio setup, using almost exclusively VSL instruments.

Forbidden love.mp3

I am quite happy with the results (the legato samples are an absolute joy to work with [:)]), but there is definitely room for improvement. I need some suggestions on how I can improve my mix. I have positioned the instruments using 10 instances of gigapulse set at medium hall setting without any EQ'ing. This has produced a satisfactory result through my studio speakers, however when played through a lesser system the first thing to suffer in the mix are the violin string section, especially in the higher octaves. They tend to sound thin and synthy.

I need some suggestions on what I can do to improve the mix and any orchestration tips would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Chris

[PolarBear]

Hm. I liked the composition so far, but I somehow missed the lower region instruments power at many places. The orchestration also allows for moments that are more intimate without them, but they are definately missing in the big hits after the timp rolls, and they are also missing in the theme which you are developing, which is in my opinion also a reason for the violins to sound thin and fake, because you can make up a lot of that with proper orchestration. Apart from the double basses, tuba, trombones, bassoons, ... I'd also try to introduce a few more percussion instruments, and (my personal favorite mistake also) let the flute have a breath (a little break of legato) a few times more to let it sound even more realistic... [[;)]]

Apart from that you could try a specific EQ on the string to warmthen them a bit (boost around 3-4kHz, or better take the low end and the highs around it) - if you are going on with that, you could try to give the instruments you are using some more space, because to me it sounds like they were fighting for it a bit in the mix and not letting it shine in pure clarity. That means you remove the really unneccessary parts with a EQ (like the below 50Hz region for the flute) that will take out some mud and give other instruments in the region more space to develop their voice.

I hope I could help you a bit with my viewings on it, just let me say I'm not an expert on this matter, so just take it for what it's worth... [[;)]]
PolarBear

[Chris Hesketh]

Thank you very much for your reply. your comments are invaluable [:)]

[weslldeckers]

Hi there.
I also miss some lower regions and warmth.
Funny: the first four notes sound almost exactly like the theme from Papillon, and I though I wouldn't like this piece... until the flute showed its theme. Very nice theme. Exactly the right feeling. Loving and longing. sad because it's not to be.

It sounds pretty GRAND and filmic (Les Miserables from Poledouris also is bittersweet).
Concerning the sound itself I feel robbed of the depth I'd expect in such music. Why not going for a full string section, including divisi violins.

Q: what's this for? Just for the sake of trying your setup? Or will this show up in a film or tv series? Really should!

[Chris Hesketh]

Thanks for your comments [[:)]].
My greatest sin is always to under orchestrate my work.
Quite often I find if I've been working on something for weeks, I can't seem to see the wood through the trees [[:)]]
I've taken on board what you have said and will have a go at strengthening the lower regions and adding some warmth.

The piece was written to go in my demo portfolio and to try out my new setup.

Cheers