Quick answer: A Migos-style trap vocal is tight, loud and rhythmic. In Logic Pro, use a high-pass near 100 Hz, fast compression (4:1 to 6:1 with 5 to 8 dB of gain reduction), DeEsser 2, a presence boost near 3 to 5 kHz and light pitch correction. Add a triplet delay to match the flow, and double the ad-libs. Treat every number as a starting point.
Looking for another sound? See all our vocal sounds by artist and style in one place. Thir13een is not affiliated with any artist named.
This guide rebuilds a hard trap vocal with the plug-ins that come with Logic Pro. It describes a style, not a recording. GarageBand notes are at the end.
What defines a Migos-style vocal sound
- Front and centre. The vocal sits loud and dry, with little room sound.
- Tight dynamics. Heavy compression keeps every syllable at the same level.
- Triplet flow. Phrases fall in groups of three, so the effects follow the same rhythm.
- Ad-libs. Short, doubled hits answer the lead line.
- Bright and crisp. Presence and top-end detail make words cut through hard 808s.
The chain in Logic Pro
| Order | Plug-in | Starting point |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Channel EQ | High-pass at 100 Hz. Cut 3 dB between 250 and 400 Hz. |
| 2 | Pitch Correction | Fast response for a tuned feel. Reduce if the effect sounds too robotic. |
| 3 | Compressor | 4:1 to 6:1, fast attack (1 to 10 ms), fast release, 5 to 8 dB of gain reduction. |
| 4 | DeEsser 2 | Around 6 to 9 kHz. Stronger than normal, since hard compression boosts S sounds. |
| 5 | Channel EQ (tone) | Add 2 to 3 dB near 3 to 5 kHz and a small shelf above 10 kHz. |
Match the delay to the flow
Triplet rhythms define this style, so use a triplet delay instead of a straight one. In Logic's Echo or Stereo Delay, set the note value to an eighth-note triplet (1/8T). Keep the feedback low, filter the repeats between 300 Hz and 5 kHz and set the send low. The repeats then line up with triplet phrases and add bounce.
For the reverb, use a short plate or room with a decay under one second. Long tails smear fast flows.
Ad-libs
- Record each ad-lib three times.
- Pan two takes left and right and keep one in the centre.
- Put them through the same chain, then add extra reverb and a wider delay.
- Lower them 5 to 8 dB below the lead.
- Automate the delay send up on the last ad-lib of a phrase for a throw.
The same sound in GarageBand
- Use the Compressor with a high ratio and a fast attack, and the Channel EQ for the high-pass and presence.
- Use the pitch correction control set toward the "tuned" side.
- GarageBand's echo has note values, so choose a triplet if your version offers it. If not, use a short straight delay with low feedback.
- There is no DeEsser 2, so tame harshness with a small cut near 6 to 8 kHz.
Problems that show up with this sound
- Harsh S sounds: increase the de-esser before the compressor works harder, or lower the compressor makeup gain.
- Vocal buried by the 808: cut 2 dB at 200 to 300 Hz on the vocal or the beat, and add presence.
- Pumping: release is too fast. Lengthen it a little.
- Delay clutters the flow: reduce feedback, or send only the ends of lines.
Watch the original tutorial
Get the Migos-style preset
Skip the building, or study a finished chain.
Logic Pro X: Migos-style trap vocal preset for Logic Pro X is $10 and uses only stock plug-ins.
Want a finished chain instead of building one? Start with the free Toronto Warmth vocal preset for Logic Pro X. Then compare the Logic Pro Starter Pack ($19, three best sellers), the GarageBand Starter Pack ($19) and the Vocal Preset Mega Bundle for Logic Pro X ($49). You can also browse the Logic Pro vocal presets and GarageBand vocal presets collections.
We do not publish the exact values inside our paid presets. The starting points above are general mixing practice.
For more on rap mixing, read how to mix rap vocals in Logic Pro and the Travis Scott-style guide.
Frequently asked questions
What delay setting gives a Migos-style vocal?
An eighth-note triplet delay with low feedback matches the triplet flow. Filter the repeats so they sit behind the voice.
How much compression do trap vocals need?
Often 5 to 8 dB of gain reduction with a fast attack. Check for pumping and harsh S sounds.
Do I need Auto-Tune?
Not always. Light correction keeps notes tidy. Read Auto-Tune in Logic Pro for settings.
Can I do this in GarageBand?
You can get close. GarageBand has a compressor, EQ, pitch correction and echo.
How do I keep the vocal above the 808?
Cut low mids on the beat or vocal around 200 to 300 Hz and add presence near 3 to 5 kHz.
More artist-style vocal guides
- Drake-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- The Weeknd-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Travis Scott-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Tory Lanez-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Post Malone-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Chris Brown-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Ed Sheeran-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Justin Bieber-Style Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Reggae Dancehall Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
- Radio-Ready Pop Vocals in Logic Pro and GarageBand
Thir13een is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Migos. "Migos-style" describes a sound we aim to approximate, nothing more.
Back to the full list: every artist-style vocal guide. Related: Lil Baby Vocal Effect and Tory Lanez.
