# Using reverbs to create depth As a sound moves farther away, its direct level decreases while its reverberated level remains about the same. Sound loses 6dB per doubling of distance.[^1] Early reflections of a reverb can situate a sound in a place.[^2] These early reflections also help each track of a mix blend.[^3] This makes sense to me because it smears the transient. Pre-delay can situate a sound in a place too (see [[Using delay to create depth]]). Use this to create a sense of the instrument's location. Reverbs with no pre-delay give the impression that the source signal is further away. Reverbs with pre-delay bring the source signal closer. Start off with 10 to 20 milliseconds of pre-delay.[^4] Distant sounds tend to reflect off of more surfaces.[^5] Use late reflections to exploit this. [[ValhallaVintageVerb]] has controls for early and late reflections. So does Phoenix Verb. Consider also [[Using EQ to create depth]] on the reverb aux. I like to use two reverbs on a source sometimes, like a plate and a chamber. One reverb can be used for character, the other for placement via early and late reflections.[^6] Marc Daniel Nelson says mixing different reverbs together can impart a 3D sound.[^[^7]] [^1]: [[Audio Production and Critical Listening]] pg. 61 [^2]: [8 Tips for Creating Depth And Height In The Mix](https://www.masteringthemix.com/blogs/learn/8-tips-for-creating-depth-and-height-in-the-mix?utm_source=pocket_mylist) [^3]: [[Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio]] pg. 276 [^4]: [[Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio]] pg. 278 [^5]: [Creating A Sense Of Depth In Your Mix](https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques/creating-sense-depth-your-mix?utm_source=pocket_mylist) [^6]: [Creating A Sense Of Depth In Your Mix](https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques/creating-sense-depth-your-mix?utm_source=pocket_mylist) [^7]: [EVERYTHING you need to know about REVERB - Free Course with Marc D. Nelson Produce Like A Pro - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRLWsOzohQA)