Fader Automation
Definition
Volume automation applied specifically to fader levels over time within a DAW session. Distinct from plugin parameter automation, fader automation is the most fundamental form of mix automation — the real-time recording and playback of volume changes across a mix.
In Simple Terms
Recording your fader movements so the DAW replays them exactly every time. Instead of holding your hand on the vocal fader for the entire song, draw or record the moves once and they play back perfectly forever.
In Practice
A mix engineer rides the lead vocal fader through the entire song, drawing automation to push forward the quieter phrases and pull back the louder ones, creating a natural, consistent presence without over-compressing.