Sidechaining techniques have become ubiquitous over the past couple of decades, and tools that apply – or emulate – the effect of a sidechained compressor are far more commonplace now. This mode joins the existing functions from the original – Sync, once again offering 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 and 1/1 pumping, and MIDI triggering, slightly easier to access here having been moved from the advanced menu to the front UI panel. Most significantly, it adds an actual sidechain input, meaning the ducking effect can be triggered by a custom kick pattern or any other audio source, which immediately opens up its rhythmic capabilities.

Kickstart 2 does a lot to expand the flexibility. However, Kickstart’s synced pumping was effectively locked to divisions of a 4/4 rhythm and, while it was possible to work around this using MIDI triggering, that limited its appeal beyond house, EDM and techno. Its simplicity made it an instant hit with that audience, and a range of pre-designed automation curves made it flexible within its remit. Unsurprisingly, given Nicky Romero’s name attached to it, Kickstart was primarily targeted at EDM and ‘big room’ house. Includes 16 preset automation curves and bandsplit more.ĬONTACT/Buy: Cableguys (opens in new tab) KEY FEATURES: Rhythmic volume automation tool with Sync, MIDI and Audio sidechain modes.

Nicky romero vst