Introduction to Compressor Controls

If you’re not sure what compression is: What is Compression? (Audio Processing)

Compressors are audio processors that are vital to producing professional audio and they come in all shapes and sizes with widely varying features and controls. Some compressors have only one adjustable parameter (“one-knob compressors”) and others have many adjustable parameters.

Here are the fundamental controls of a compressor: (note, this is not an exhaustive list)

• Threshold – the level at which the compressor engages and disengages.
• Ratio – how aggressively or subtly the audio is compressed when it’s above the threshold.
• Attack – how quickly the compressor engages after the level goes above the threshold.
• Release – how quickly the compressor disengages after the level goes back below the threshold.
• Mix – the blend of the compressed signal with the original (uncompressed) signal.
• Sidechain – an external audio source that triggers the compressor to engage.
• Gain reduction meter – this is not a parameter but an ultra-handy meter so you can see how much compression is actually happening at any moment.

Experimenting with these controls yourself will give you lots more insight into each of these fundamental parameters of compressors. Spend 30 minutes twisting knobs and practicing – I dare you!

Sound great!

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