Description
Get closer to the raw, upfront vocal sound of XXXTentacion’s “SAD!” with this ready-to-use Waves vocal chain preset.
Built around the real vocal processing approach shared by mixing engineer Koen Heldens, this chain recreates the key ideas behind XXXTentacion’s vocal sound using Waves plugins — from pitch correction and compression to EQ, reverb and delay.
The preset is designed to give rap vocals a tight, controlled and upfront sound while keeping the character and emotion of the performance intact.
What’s Inside
The chain combines:
- Pitch correction for a natural, controlled vocal
- Multiple stages of compression for a consistent, upfront sound
- Upward compression to bring quieter vocal details forward
- EQ to clean up harsh and unwanted midrange
- Two parallel reverbs for brightness, depth and space
- Subtle delay for movement and texture
- Final level control for a more consistent output
Smart Controls
Instead of opening every plugin individually, the most useful controls are mapped directly to Macro Knobs, making it easy to adjust the chain for the vocal you’re mixing.
Dial in the amount of compression, tuning, effects and overall vocal character from one simple interface.
Made for Waves StudioVerse
Load the preset, choose the correct key for your song, adjust the Smart Controls to fit your vocal, and start mixing.
Perfect for:
XXXTentacion-style vocals • Emo rap • Hip-hop • Trap • Melodic rap • Dark melodic vocals
Get the XXXTentacion Vocal Sound
If you’re looking for an XXXTentacion vocal chain, Waves vocal preset, or a starting point for mixing emotional rap vocals, this preset gives you the complete chain in one place.
Requirements: Waves StudioVerse/StudioRack, Scheps 73, RCompressor, Waves Tune Real-Time, R-Vox, MV2, F6 Floating-Band Dynamic EQ, CLA EchoSphere, Renaissance Reverb (RVerb), H-Delay, L4 Ultramaximizer
This is an independently created vocal preset inspired by publicly discussed mixing techniques. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by XXXTentacion, his estate, Koen Heldens, or Waves.
XXXTENTACION Vocal Chain Presets FAQs
Can the XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain preset be used for other genres besides Hip-Hop?
Yes! While the XXXTENTACION preset has been designed with rap vocals in mind, it is versatile and can be used for a range of vocal styles, including Pop, R&B, Soul, Rap and Trap.
How can the XXXTENTACION Vocal Chain preset help me save time in my music productions?
XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain preset eliminates the need to spend hours tweaking and processing your vocal tracks. With just one preset, you can achieve a polished, professional-level sound that will make your vocals stand out in any mix. This saves you time and gives you the confidence that your vocals sound like they were recorded in a professional studio.
Can I use the XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain preset on a live performance or only in a studio setting?
XXXTENTACION Vocal Chain preset is optimized for use in a studio setting. However, you can still use it in a live performance with the proper equipment and setup.
Can I use the XXXTENTACION Vocal Chain preset on any DAW?
Yes! The XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain preset is compatible with any digital audio workstation (DAW) that supports Waves plugins.
What inspired the creation of the XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain preset?
XXXTENTACION Vocal Chain preset was inspired by the unique vocal sound of the renowned artist XXXTENTACION.
How do I install the XXXTENTACION type Vocal Chain
To install the XXXTENTACION Vocal preset, simply drag and drop the .xps file directly into Waves StudioVerse, and the preset will be ready to load within the plugin.