How do I use sidechain?

KO IIEP-133 sidechainduckingsidechain compression EP-133
By ivan.codes·Updated Feb 2026·Official KO II Guide ↗

The EP-133 has a built-in sidechain compressor for that pumping effect:

What sidechain does:

  • Ducks (lowers volume) of other sounds when the kick hits
  • Creates the classic "pumping" EDM effect
  • Makes kicks punch through the mix

Setting up sidechain: 1. Enter effects mode (press FX) 2. Navigate to the compressor effect 3. Enable sidechain mode 4. The kick drum (typically pad 1 in group A) becomes the trigger

Sidechain parameters:

  • Threshold — How loud the kick must be to trigger ducking
  • Ratio — How much the other sounds are reduced
  • Attack — How fast the ducking kicks in
  • Release — How long until sounds return to full volume

Tips for good sidechain:

  • Use a strong, punchy kick
  • Set release to match your tempo (faster tempo = shorter release)
  • Works best on sustained sounds (pads, bass, synths)
  • Too much sidechain sounds unnatural

Alternative method: If you want manual sidechain, use the fader to automate volume dips in sync with your kick pattern.

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