Do you have a strategy for using Reverbs in a Mix?

[mementus]

Everything is subjective, we know. But if we don't manage the way we put our Reverbs, and we go with gut, it's very easy to mess a mix. So I'd like to hear from people who developed a strategy (it doesn't have to be a strict set of rules, just a more broad strategy/guidelines) which one it is.
Something like:
use reverb as a front to back panning tool to create depth
usually no more than 4-5 reverbs max to avoid muddiness
eq the reverbs send to avoid buildup.

Also I'd like to know on which elements do you end up putting Reverb, aside from vocals!

[DJ Warmonger]

Yes I do:

1. Route all melodic / FX tracks to two convolution reverb channels, either "close" or "distant" to create realistic and consitent space.
2. Route all of the mentioned to an instance of Eventide Blackhole in order to create dense ambient background. This one is sidechained both to the kick and to the input signal itself.
3. For big leads, use NI Raum sidechained by input signal.
4. I also use a bit of drum room convolution reverb on drum bus.

[legendCNCD]

Uhh

We just, like, use them where needed and when needed, then eq the stuff out from the signal if needed.

Really depends on a project type and what it needs. We do have some predefined fx channels but those are for delaylines and setup how we like 'em. For reverbs we check through what could work while making, then later on if it can be different reverb or just use the one we chose originally.

Also a lot of times there are some individual sounds which have their own ambience / larger reverb, just for fx or to make a bit of space. Straight on the channel. Some times its snare having own, sometimes its some pluck sound.

[cryophonik]

Good idea for a thread!

I honestly don't give it a lot of thought up front, but just the idea of this topic makes me think that I should. I tend to just add reverb as I go and ultimately end up with too much, so I usually need to go back and cut it. But my general strategy usually goes something like:

- deep lush reverbs on some key elements that I want to have an obvious dreamy or spacy effect (e.g., vocals, snare/clap, percussive hit, dreamy pads or plucks, sonic booms, etc.)
- everything else, which usually means a touch of reverb to give parts some depth/position/distance in the mix without interfering with the parts mentioned above.

[Erisian]

A very small amount on the master channel brings the whole mix to life. Other than that, I don't really use it much.

[_leras]

Yes I do:

1. Route all melodic / FX tracks to two convolution reverb channels, either "close" or "distant" to create realistic and consitent space.
2. Route all of the mentioned to an instance of Eventide Blackhole in order to create dense ambient background. This one is sidechained both to the kick and to the input signal itself.
3. For big leads, use NI Raum sidechained by input signal.
4. I also use a bit of drum room convolution reverb on drum bus.

This type of thing as well.

Some general room verb
Likely also some drum room verb
Maybe a separate snare reverb
FX type reverbs on leads or main elements.

Or sometimes only delays.

[GVTS]

I just use it for effect, or if something still stands out as being too present in a mix after compression/saturation I'll use a touch of it to blend it in a bit better. Also I only set the reverb levels when I have my maximizer/master settings dialed. Otherwise you'll get a boost in the effect once you do that.

[BONES]

I used to just to use one reverb, in a send, to create a consistent space for the mix to sit in but these days I tend to let instruments with built-in reverb keep their reverb, although rarely as drenched as they are in a preset, and I use reverb as an insert effect for vocals.

My go to reverb is Eos 2, mostly for the plate models. Since I bought it, I haven't really used any others.

[licasto2]

My go to reverb is Eos 2, mostly for the plate models. Since I bought it, I haven't really used any others.

+1 for EOS. I have nearly every reverb plugin available, of the ones I use some are free/cheap and some are very expensive but nothing beats EOS for ethereal guitars and pads. My strategy for reverb is the same for everything: Find out works best for every situation without taking price into account. It takes awhile but you'll gravitate to a group of tools that you know and will be able to get things done quicker and before inspiration leaves.