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I was curious as to what people's views on manual v. sidechain compression. I personally favor manual (about 30ms before and after the attack of kick and snare) over compression, because w/ compression, you get the ducking effect, which I personally dislike, but w/ manual, it simply brings out the drums much more. I also heard Datsik does the same. Anyways, have at it if you will!

I sidechain with compression but leave the make up gain at 0, with slow attack and slow release for a more natural, subtle feel.
I use to manual sidechain, when I didn't know how to sidechain compress.

Though sidechaining isn't just about ducking synths with the kick and snare. I love sidechaining a gate on hat rolls with a kick and snare

better the real way, also automation is your friend !

I don't as a mixing tool, I use it as an effect. Which means I get a lot more control via compression than doing it manually