Simple Compression for Even Speech Audio

What compression does

A compressor lowers volume when the signal goes above a set threshold. For speech, this reduces loud peaks and brings up quieter parts, making the whole take easier to listen to at one level.

It does not add volume, it controls range. Used lightly, it keeps tone natural. Used heavily, it can squeeze the life out of speech.

Key settings in order

Threshold sets when gain reduction starts. Ratio sets how much reduction happens above threshold. A low ratio like 2:1 or 3:1 is often enough for speech.

Attack controls how fast reduction starts on peaks. Release controls how fast it stops after peaks fall. These timing controls matter more for natural sound than extreme ratios.

Start with light values

Begin with a threshold that catches only the loudest peaks, a low ratio, a moderate attack and an auto or medium release. Aim for a few decibels of gain reduction at most for most speech.

Make up gain to match the level before compression. This lets you judge the change fairly without the volume jump tricking your ears.

A few decibels of reduction sound better than flattening speech.

Watch for common mistakes

Avoid fast attack on speech unless needed, as it can dull consonants. Avoid very slow release that pumps, or very fast release that can chatter.

Do not compress to 'even out' bad mic placement. Fix distance and angle first, then use light compression to polish the take.

Key takeaways

• Use low ratios like 2:1 to 3:1 for natural speech compression.
• Time attack and release to fit the pace of the speaker.
• Aim for only a few decibels of gain reduction on average.
• Add make up gain to compare before and after fairly.
• Fix placement before relying on heavy compression.