Understanding Compression

Compression confuses everyone at first. It is simple once you get it.

A compressor turns loud parts down and quiet parts up. It reduces the dynamic range. The level becomes more consistent.

Four controls matter. Threshold is where compression starts. Ratio is how much. Attack is how fast it reacts. Release is how fast it stops.

Start with a 4:1 ratio. Set the threshold for 3 to 6 dB of gain reduction. Adjust attack to let the transient through. Adjust release to recover before the next note.

Use your ears. If it sounds worse, turn it off.

The common mistake is over compressing. If you can hear the compressor working, it is probably working too hard.