yes. sidechaining is pretty much overdone in techno, that's true. you can achieve more or less the same and better result with using different approaches,good subtractive EQ,,and so. no doubt about it,. i just want to say, that any technique when used too often or any type of effect when used too much can become a cliche one day,. just look at the distortion effect,.all this schranz shit makes a real bad light on such a kind of effect even it can be great when used at the right moment with the right amount..or 909 style bass drums in techno,. there is much more.. it can be same for any type of effect or any production technique which become a cliche when used too often.. so i would advice dont hesitate to use any techniques or effect or whatever, but just use your brain and ears..my opinion.