A Practical Guide To Audio Compression

What compression does

Compression reduces the difference between loud and soft parts of a track. By turning down peaks, you can raise the overall level without clipping.

It is a control tool, not just a loudness tool. Used well, it helps details come through in a busy mix.

Key settings

Threshold sets when compression starts. Ratio controls how much it reduces once past threshold. Attack decides how fast it reacts to peaks.

Release sets how quickly it stops compressing. Make up gain brings the level back up after reduction to match the mix.

Choosing attack times

Fast attack grabs sharp peaks but can dull transients. Slow attack lets the first hit through, which keeps drums feeling punchy.

Match attack to the sound. Percussion often likes slower attack, while some vocals may need faster control in certain spots.

Choosing release times

Too fast a release can cause pumping or breathing. Too slow can make the compression feel heavy or lag behind the music.

Aim for the release to follow the rhythm of the track. This keeps changes less noticeable to the ear.

Good compression is felt more than it is heard.

Key takeaways

• Use compression to even levels, not just to make things louder.
• Adjust threshold and ratio based on how much control you need.
• Keep attack slow for punch and fast only when needed.
• Set release to match the track's natural pace.
• Use make up gain sparingly and compare before and after.