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Compression
- Compression is the process of reducing the dynamic range between the
loudest and quietest parts of an audio signal. This is done by boosting
the quieter signals and attenuating the louder signals. Compression is
mainly used on vocals, however can and should be used across the
board of mixes, to ensure full control of the final mix. Compression
should be enough to control the mix, and whenever using the effect it
should not be obtrusive – this is all how your own ears perceive the
sounds however.
- Threshold – The level at which compression starts being applied.
- Ratio – How much compression is applied. For example, if the compression ratio is set for 6:1, the
input signal will have to cross the threshold by 6 dB for the output level to increase by 1dB.
- Attack – how quickly the compressor starts to
work
- Release – how quickly after the signal drops below the threshold the compressor
stops
- Knee – sets how the compressor reacts to signals once the threshold is passed. Hard Knee settings
mean it clamps the signal straight away, and Soft Knee means the compression kicks in more gently
as the signal goes further past the threshold.
- Timeline of Compression: 1930s-40s – Compression created to control volume of TV/Radio
presenters whispering/talking quietly as-well as an entire audience clapping. The first compressors
just had In/Out functions and no other controls. 1937 – ‘The Western Electric 110 limiting amplifier
created, being considered to be the first commercially available compressor. 1980s – DAWs included
Compression as standard in their software, rather than needing Compression Racks. 2007 – Tracks
started using less heavy compression, experimenting with different compression levels
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