Alright… let’s talk about the question we hear constantly: “How many plugins do you use on a vocal chain?”
Because the real answer isn’t a number. It’s a mindset.

In this episode, we zoom out and talk about the categories of vocal processing that actually matter: fixing what’s broken, controlling dynamics, shaping tone, then adding space and vibe. We walk through how we think about order of operations (clip gain ➝ corrective EQ ➝ compression ➝ enhancement ➝ effects), why multiple “small” moves often beat one aggressive plugin, and how to stop chasing a “radio vocal” by stacking random inserts.

Also, we may or may not compare vocals to… turds. (You’ll understand.)

Why plugin count is misleading (and what to focus on instead)

The “Fix ➝ Control ➝ Enhance ➝ Effects” framework for vocals

Why corrective EQ before compression often makes mixing easier

How we think about two-stage compression (peaks vs leveling)

When a second de-esser makes sense (and why it’s not “wrong”)

How EQ placement changes everything once a vocal is controlled

WhatsApp vs Signal vs Marco Polo… and “your everyday podcast friend”

The “make all your turds a similar size” clip gain philosophy

Steve’s Pro Tools insert situation (in the year of our Lord 2026)

“Salt is awesome… until it’s too much” (aka over-processing)

Stop asking, “How many plugins do I need?”
Start asking, “What am I trying to achieve right now?”
Fix what’s distracting, control what’s unstable, enhance what’s worth highlighting, then add space that serves the song.

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