Ever wondered how Boris Brejcha creates those hypnotic, high-energy tracks that destroy the clubs around the world?
Good news—you don’t need a million-dollar studio or a shelf full of analog gear to get close. Boris is all about speed, feel, and authenticity in the studio. And in this post, we’re breaking down his most actionable music production tips—straight from interviews and behind-the-scenes peeks into his process.
Let’s dive in.
1. Start with the Feel, Not the Plan
Boris doesn’t overthink. He doesn’t sketch out a full arrangement or plan 10 layers ahead. Instead:
“I just jam around in the studio… if something cool comes up, I go from there.”
Takeaway: Open your DAW and start messing around. If something clicks, run with it. If not — move on.
Photo by Techivation / Unsplash
2. Speed is Everything
Time kills creativity. That’s why Boris moves fast.
- Day 1: Come up with the idea
- Day 2: Arrange and mix
- Day 3: Finish it
If a project doesn’t take off quickly? Delete it. Seriously.
“Unfinished projects block your mind.”
Try it: Give yourself a 48-hour finish challenge. You’ll be shocked how much better your music flows.
3. Use What You Know (DAW & Tools)
Boris uses Cubase because he’s used it forever. It’s not about what’s trendy—it’s about what’s fast for you.
“It’s about knowing your tools inside out. That’s what makes you fast.”
He works in the box using software synths and plugins — Omnisphere, Trilian, Alchemy, Nexus, Massive, Fabfilter, and a hidden gem called “One” (cheap but killer for bass).
Photo by Techivation / Unsplash
4. Less Is More (No, Really)
This one’s important: fewer tracks, more automation.
“Sometimes, it’s better to delete a sound than add another one.”
Instead of stacking 40 layers, Boris focuses on movement — automating knobs, filters, effects to make each sound come alive. We also saw this with Skrillex in my previous article — he’s all about using automation to add life and variation, rather than piling on more layers.
Pro tip: Automate everything. Envelopes, filters, LFOs, even plugin dry/wet knobs.
5. No Compressors? Yup.
Mixing advice from Boris: almost no compression.
“Compressors destroy too much of the sound.”
Instead, he EQs carefully and uses a Hofa plugin to tame peaks by cutting certain frequencies — only when needed.
Photo by Caught In Joy / Unsplash
This makes the mix clean, dynamic, and punchy without the squash.
6. Swing > Grid
Mechanical drums kill groove. Instead of locked 1/16 notes, Boris uses tiny timing shifts (like 1/64) to get that natural, swingy flow that dancers feel in their bones.
“That groove is what makes people move.”
Photo by Marcela Laskoski / Unsplash
7. White Noise = Secret Weapon
Almost every Boris track uses white noise — especially for transitions or after breakdowns. Simple, powerful, effective.
Try this: Layer white noise with a filter sweep before your drop and hear the difference.
8. Mistakes > Perfection
Some of Boris’s best sounds came from doing something “wrong”—like stacking plugins in weird ways or hitting the wrong note.
“Mistakes in the studio can become the heart of a track.”
So next time something unexpected happens? Don’t delete it—use it.
9. Your Sound Comes from You
This is the big one. Boris constantly stresses this:
- Make music you love
- Don’t copy others
- Be weird, playful, and honest
“If you stand 100% behind your sound, fans will feel it—and love it.”
10. Real Talk: It’s Hard Work
Becoming a producer like Boris takes time. It’s not a 9-5. It’s late nights, trial and error, gigs, flops, and breakthroughs.
“It takes years. But it’s worth it.”
Stay consistent. Stay weird. Stay true.
Bonus: Boris’s Favorite Production Tools
Quick Reference Checklist
- DAW: Cubase
- Synths: Omnisphere, Trilian, Alchemy, Massive, “One”, Nexus
- Drums: Sample CDs (especially for shakers)
- Plugins: Fabfilter bundle, Hofa for peak control
- Technique: All-in-the-box, fast workflow, minimal layering, max automation
Final Thoughts
Boris Brejcha’s music feels alive and unique — and that’s no accident. It’s a result of smart workflows, fast decisions, and staying deeply connected to what feels right instead of what looks right.
If you’re looking to level up your music production, you don’t need to copy his sound. Just adopt his mindset.
Create. Delete. Play. Repeat.
Enjoyed this breakdown?
Drop a comment with your favorite Boris track and don’t forget to share these tips with a fellow producer!
Be creative!
