How to Use FX Send Returns in Logic Pro

Sends vs Inserts

Inserts process 100% of the channel signal. Sends copy a portion to a shared return bus—one reverb serves many tracks.

Returns reduce CPU and keep wet effects consistent across the mix.

Create Return Buses in Logic

1. Add Auxiliary track
   Track → New Auxiliary Track. Logic creates a bus input (e.g. Bus 1).
2. Insert FX on aux
   Load reverb or delay on the auxiliary channel; set 100% wet on the plugin if it has a mix control.
3. Rename aux
   Label Plate Verb, Slap Delay, etc., in the mixer for recall.

Send Levels and Pre/Post Fader

Post-fader sends follow channel volume—good when FX should duck with the source. Pre-fader sends stay loud when you ride the fader down—common for vocal verbs.

Double-click send to type dB; start vocals around -12 to -18 dB send into a hall return.

Gain Staging Returns

If the return bus clips, lower sends or insert a trim before the reverb. Return fader at 0 dB is normal; attenuate wet plugin output instead of slamming the bus.

Solo-safe: soloing a source still shows send contribution when Pre Listen is configured on the aux.

Parallel Compression Return

Duplicate technique: send drums to Bus 2 with heavy compressor, blend 10–25% under the dry drum bus.

Logic’s Track Stacks can group drums before the send for cleaner parallel slam.

Common Send Mistakes

Logic Template Sends

Stock template: Bus 1 short plate, Bus 2 tape delay, Bus 3 drum smash parallel. Save in your default project.

Use Send slot B for a second depth without new aux tracks when buses are scarce on small sessions.

Free FX for Returns via Plugg Supply

1. Browse reverb/delay VST
   Use Telegram catalog filters for AU/VST3 compatible with Logic on Mac.
2. Install and rescan
   Logic → Plug-in Manager → Reset & Rescan Selection.
3. Place on aux only
   Keep CPU low by sharing one instance per effect type.