Harmonic Exciters 101: Unlock Rich Harmonics for Clean Mixes

Using harmonic exciters can seriously elevate your mixes and masters. 

They bring clarity, warmth, and detail to your audio signals 一 adding the finishing touch that makes your tracks really pop. 

Plus, they help everything sound polished, professional, and balanced across any playback system (which is very important).

It brings unmatched brightness and depth to the table that can really help you stand out in today’s competitive music scene. 

As producers, knowing all about harmonic exciters can enhance your skills in a major way, which is why I’m breaking down everything you need to know, like:

• What harmonic exciters are used for ✓
• How the Original Aphex Aural Exciter changed music ✓
• Differences between analog & digital harmonic exciters ✓
• Frequency-specific exciters ✓
• How to enhance lead vocals with harmonic exciters ✓
• Best ways to improve your entire mix during mastering ✓
• Tips for avoiding overuse and common mistakes ✓
• Top techniques for stereo imaging & phase manipulation ✓
• The best harmonic exciter plugins available today ✓
• Advanced tips, tricks, and techniques ✓
• Much more about harmonic exciters ✓

By knowing all about harmonic exciters, and the best plugins as well,, you can take your mixing and mastering skills to the next level. 

This way, your tracks will sound brighter, fuller, and more detailed without compromising their natural quality or 

Plus, you’ll sound super professional (never like a noobie) and have a competitive edge that helps your beats stand out above the rest.

How Does a Harmonic Exciter Work?

Harmonic exciters are one of those things that can take your mix from good to great by adding clarity and brightness where it’s needed most. 

They work by introducing musically related synthesized harmonics into your audio signals, which enhances high frequency content.

And, helps your sound cut through a dense mix too, of course.

Whether you’re working on lead vocals that need more presence or individual tracks like an acoustic guitar, a harmonic exciter can help bring out those tiny details that often get buried.

You could even use harmonic exciters to improve clarity in smaller speakers that might struggle to reproduce low frequencies or high frequency signals accurately. 

For example, when you simulate deep bass, harmonic exciters can add upper harmonics that trick the ear into perceiving low-end power without needing a subwoofer. 

This works super well in genres like pop or EDM, where the desired effect is to keep the mix punchy yet balanced.

They’re also super important when it comes to balancing the entire mix when you’re mastering so everything is on point.

This way, you can successfully polish the final track by enhancing the harmonic content while maintaining the integrity of the original signal. 

Plus, by using the mix control feature, you can blend the processed and original signal to achieve the desired effect without introducing any unwanted distortion.

PRO TIP: I’ll mention this later on as well in detail, but it’s very important to always use harmonic exciters subtly…

While it’s tempting to crank them up for immediate impact, believe me, overdoing it can lead to harshness in the high frequency signals.

And, mess with the overall phase manipulation of your audio signals as well.

Don’t worry if it sounds a little complicated or confusing right now, we’re going to break down everything you need to know to master harmonic exciters.

Quick Historical Background of Harmonic Exciters

Before we dive into the modern variations, let’s first break down some history because to truly master it, you need to know the history of the first aural exciter units.

Harmonic exciters actually have a fascinating history that dates back to the 1970s, with the introduction of the Original Aphex Aural Exciter by Aphex Electronics. 

Dubbed the “Magic Box” by the most renowned recording artists of that time, this aural exciter became a game-changer in professional studios.

This is because it added a new dimension of brightness and clarity to audio signals that really wasn’t seen before.

The aural exciter circuit used in the first audio exciter units relied on analog components (including a dual triode vacuum tube) to achieve its signature sound.

The Aphex Aural Exciter included unique features like phase manipulation and harmonic synthesis, which gave recording artists an edge in creating radio-friendly tracks. 

These early aural exciter units became insanely popular during mixing and mastering because they could enhance harmonic content.

All without requiring additional processing power or altering the original signal drastically, which actually blew people’s minds at that time.

I know we can’t picture it now, but that was really hard to achieve back then.

Over the years, the technology naturally evolved 一 transitioning from analog hardware to digital audio plugins, of course.

While the original unit had limited controls, modern harmonic exciters offer advanced parameters like mix control, drive control, and precise targeting of low frequency signals or high frequency signals. 

These upgrades have made harmonic exciters absolutely invaluable for mastering engineers/producers, who rely on them to enhance the purer frequency band of a track.

NOTE: One interesting note is how the aural exciter was often rented by studios instead of purchased outright, with the cost being factored into the artist’s budget, but that’s besides the point.

Today, you can easily access its magic in plugins like the Waves Aphex Vintage Aural Exciter, combining the edge of the original unit with the flexibility of modern production.

Types of Harmonic Exciters: Breaking it Down

Harmonic exciters come in a bunch of different forms, each one is tweaked to address specific production needs. From analog hardware units to versatile plugins and frequency-specific exciters, each type brings unique tools for mixing and mastering to the table, so let’s break it down.

Analog Exciters

Analog harmonic exciters paved the way for modern sound enhancement, with classics like the Original Aphex Aural Exciter leading the charge. 

These aural exciter units relied on tube-based circuits such as the dual triode to introduce higher-order harmonics into audio signals.

It delivered unmatched warmth and natural clarity like we just talked about. 

For example, the Aphex Aural Exciter included controls for phase manipulation so producers could fine-tune the harmonic relationship between the processed and original signal.

One standout feature of analog exciters is their ability to enhance low frequency signals and simulate deep bass through subtle saturation and harmonic enhancement. 

A setting for vocals might be boosting the high frequency signals by 2-3dB while dialing the mix control to around 30% 一 preserving the natural tone of the source sound. 

Instruments like acoustic guitars, on the other hand, benefit from slightly higher drive control settings to achieve a brighter, more dynamic feel.

However, analog units typically lack the flexibility of modern plugins and require meticulous care due to their varying nature and reliance on physical components. 

Despite this, many professionals swear by their ability to add a purer frequency band and an organic texture that’s difficult to replicate digitally.

And, as someone who has actually used analog exciters, I can certainly agree.

Digital Exciters

Now let’s switch gears and talk about digital harmonic exciters, which let you enhance specific parts of your audio signals with unmatched precision. 

They include features like: 

• Mix control 一 Blends the processed and original signal
• Drive control 一 Determines how much harmonic enhancement is applied

For example, if your lead vocals feel dull, you can isolate frequencies between 8kHz and 12kHz, set the mix control to 25%, and adjust the drive control to 2.

This will give you a bright, clear lift without sounding overprocessed.

In my opinion, the best feature of digital exciters is multi-band processing, which divides the signal into frequency bands so you can process each range independently. 

For example, when it comes to high frequencies, you can enhance them on your cymbals by targeting 10kHz-16kHz with a mix control of 20%.

While, at the same time, enriching the low frequencies of bass around 60Hz-80Hz with a subtle drive control at 3. 

Basically, it lets you fine-tune multiple parts of your mix without affecting the overall balance, which is super valuable.

Digital exciters are also great for adding punch to a kick drum or shimmer to hi-hats. 

On a kick, boosting harmonics in the 60Hz range helps simulate deep bass and gives it more presence. 

On hi-hats, targeting high frequency harmonics with a 15%-20% mix control can add sparkle without introducing harshness.

Many digital exciters also include controls for phase manipulation 一 helping to minimize phase shifts that could otherwise destroy the stereo image. 

For example, processing panned synth pads in the 4kHz-8kHz range adds width and depth to your mix while keeping it mono-compatible. 

All in all, with their flexibility, consistency, and processing power, digital exciters are essential for mixing and mastering, giving you precise control over the harmonic content and dynamics of your tracks.

Pro Tip:

When working with frequency-specific exciters, keep in mind that harmonic synthesis involves carefully adding upper harmonics to your audio signals without distorting the original signal. 

To achieve the best results, you’ll want to use a subtle drive control setting (around 2-3) and target specific frequency ranges like the:

• 10kHz-16kHz band for high frequencies
• 50Hz-80Hz band for the low-end

This makes sure that the harmonic synthesis enhances clarity and depth without overwhelming the mix. 

Just don’t forget to ALWAYS monitor in mono to avoid any unwanted phase shifts that can occur during processing (which I’m sure you’ve heard me say about mixing).

Harmonic Exciters in Mixing

Harmonic exciters are invaluable when it comes to mixing because of the clarity and detail it can bring to specific elements of a track. Whether you’re working on lead vocals, instruments, or the overall mix, they can help you hype up high frequency signals and enhance the harmonic content in a way that static EQs simply… can’t. So, let’s get into it.

• Enhancing Vocals

When it comes to making lead vocals clear and prominent, especially in dense mixes, harmonic exciters are awesome.

To start, target high frequency signals between 6kHz and 12kHz (this range contains the “air” that makes vocals sound open and present).

For example, you can apply an exciter with a mix control set to 20%-30% and a drive control around 2.5 to add a subtle harmonic boost that enhances clarity.

This also makes sure it doesn’t overpower the vocal’s natural character.

If your vocal feels dull, boosting the purer frequency band around 8kHz by 1.5-2dB can bring out crispness and detail. 

However, make sure to watch out for sibilance… If the “S” sounds become too harsh, simply reduce the processing in the range above 10kHz. 

To avoid amplifying problem frequencies, you can layer harmonic exciters selectively.

For example, processing the lead vocal with slightly more intensity (30% mix control) while keeping backing vocals more subtle (15%-20% mix control).

NOTE: Using harmonic exciters after compression is key because they work best on a consistent signal, and make sure to always compare the processed track to the original signal to make sure that the enhancements are improving the vocal naturally. 

If the exciter makes the vocal sound overly processed, just dial back the drive control or focus on a narrower frequency band. 

To add even more nuance, try using exciters on vocal reverb tails, which can create a lush, airy feel while leaving the dry vocal on point.

Finally, I’m going to say it again, you should always monitor in mono while you’re processing vocals. 

This helps ensure that phase manipulation doesn’t cause unintended artifacts when your mix is played on systems with limited stereo separation (like smaller speakers).

• Instrument Enhancement

Harmonic exciters are also great for breathing some life into instruments that feel flat or buried in a mix. 

For acoustic guitar, targeting high frequency signals between 6kHz and 10kHz with a mix control of 30% can add sparkle and clarity so each strum is more defined. 

Using the Techivation T-Exciter, you can also enhance the low-end of a bass guitar by boosting harmonics around 80Hz 一 helping it cut through dense arrangements.

When processing drums, exciters are great for hyping up cymbals and hi-hats. 

For example, try setting the drive control at 3 and focusing on frequencies above 10kHz to achieve that crisp, bright shimmer. 

On the flip side, applying harmonic enhancement to kick drums in the low frequency signals can help simulate deep bass for a fuller, punchier sound.

NOTE: If you’re working with analog instruments, exciters like the Aphex Aural Exciter included in plugin suites can add warmth by replicating the natural aural exciter circuit found in the original unit. 

Always use subtle settings, blending the processed and original signal carefully to retain the instrument’s authenticity.

• Adding Air to Mixes

Adding air to your mixes is where harmonic exciters can truly transform the overall sound, especially in genres like pop and EDM.

Instead of focusing solely on individual elements, think of this as a way to add subtle brightness to create cohesion across the entire mix. 

For example, targeting high frequency signals between 10kHz and 16kHz with a mix control of 15%-20% and a drive control set to 2 can gently enhance the top end without introducing harshness.

To add depth and spaciousness, focus on harmonic processing for background elements like reverb tails or wide synth pads. 

Enhancing harmonics in the purer frequency band above 8kHz can also make layered pads feel more immersive 一 giving the mix a sense of width and clarity. 

Percussion effects like shakers and claps can also benefit from subtle harmonic enhancement by adding rhythmic air and movement that supports the main groove.

Avoid applying harmonic exciters randomly to the entire mix because this can lead to phase issues or overly sharp high-end tones. 

Instead, process grouped elements or apply harmonic enhancement selectively to areas that need it most. 

For example, if your background textures feel dull, boosting their high frequency harmonics slightly will add sparkle without competing with lead instruments. 

By treating harmonic exciters as a subtle, targeted enhancement rather than an all-over effect, you can achieve a balanced, airy mix that feels polished/professional.

Harmonic Exciters in Mastering

When it comes to mastering, harmonic exciters are used to refine the entire mix, adding clarity, brightness, and depth without altering the balance of the original signal. 

One of their most common uses is enhancing high frequency signals between 10kHz and 16kHz, which can give your track a polished, radio-ready sheen. 

You’ll want to start with a mix control of 15%-20% and boost around 1.5-2dB in this range to add sparkle and air without harshness.

For low frequencies, exciters can simulate deep bass by emphasizing harmonics around 50Hz-80Hz (perfect when you want the kick and bass to be powerful yet controlled).

Use a drive control setting around 3 to add just enough harmonic richness while maintaining the clarity of the source sound.

Harmonic exciters are also perfect for stereo imaging…

Applying subtle harmonic processing to panned elements like strings or pads can create a wider, more immersive mix. 

A slight boost in the upper-midrange (4kHz-8kHz) on these elements, combined with a 20% mix control, can enhance their spatial presence. 

When processing midrange frequencies, focusing on the purer frequency band between 2kHz and 6kHz can add clarity to the vocals and instruments.

This way, they don’t get lost in the mix. 

This works super well for acoustic-based tracks, where natural tonal quality is key, just keep your adjustments subtle because you don’t want any over-processing.

Side note: always place the exciter before the limiter in your mastering chain. 

This ensures that the harmonic enhancements are applied cleanly without causing the limiter to react unpredictably. 

My advice is to use reference tracks to fine-tune your settings, and make adjustments in small increments to avoid overdoing it. 

Even a 1dB boost in harmonic content can seriously enhance the way the track translates across playback systems.

Bonus: Alternatives to Harmonic Exciters

If harmonic exciters aren’t giving you the desired effect you’re looking for, you definitely have some alternatives.

Saturation, for example, is an excellent way to enhance harmonics across your mix while keeping a more analog feel, which is great.

Targeting low frequencies around 60Hz-80Hz with a saturation level of 2-3 can simulate deep bass that feels warm and natural. 

For high frequency signals, use a tape-style saturator to add smooth harmonic edge without introducing harshness.

Distortion is another great option, especially for more aggressive genres. 

Using mild distortion on lead vocals can add texture and presence, while heavier settings can make guitars or synths sound gritty and edgy. 

For example, a 2.5 drive control setting on your distortion plugin can add just the right amount of character to your track without overwhelming the original signal.

Static equalizers can also mimic the effects of harmonic exciters when applied carefully and in the right way.

Boosting frequencies between 8kHz-12kHz with a bell curve and a 2dB gain can brighten your mix in a way that’s subtle yet effective, so try that out.

Mix this with a gentle cut around 200Hz to clean up muddy low-end frequencies so your mix remains balanced.

For a more dynamic approach, optical gain control elements found in compressors can introduce harmonic richness while controlling dynamics.

By setting the attack to medium and the release to fast, you can subtly enhance the transient details of drums or vocals to give your mix a more open, polished sound.

Finally, if you’re looking for natural tonal enhancement, consider analog saturation plugins or hardware professional units. 

And, for the last time, always monitor carefully and make small adjustments to avoid over-processing so your track always retains its clarity and balance.

Final Thoughts

Remember, harmonic exciters are all about enhancing clarity, brightness, and depth in your mixes. 

They help bring out the best in your tracks 一 adding detail, sparkle, and cohesion that make them stand out in any genre. 

And, using all the tips and techniques we talked about today, you’ll be able to refine your mixing and mastering skills and create professional-sounding tracks all day.

And, as a special bonus, you’ve got to check out these Legendary Free Sample Packs. 

You’ll find everything from the hardest-hitting basses on the planet to chill, lofi sounds and everything in between. 

Plus, there are even free project files that show you exactly how to create professional beats from start to finish (including what harmonic exciters bring to the table, too). 

You’ll basically be getting the cheat codes to completely dominate your competition with the best sounds available. 

Even better, they’re all created by the best producers in the world and 100% royalty-free, so you can use them however you’d like.

Bottom line, by mastering the art of harmonic exciters, you’ll add a new level of polish and professionalism to your tracks you didn’t even think was possible.

Whether you’re working on vocals, instruments, or an entire mix, these techniques will give your music that polished, epic sound you’ve been looking for. 

The only limit is how far you’re ready to take your creativity.

Until next time…