Audio compression is one of the most important tools in a mixing engineer's arsenal. It can be used to make a variety of changes to an audio signal, such as reducing dynamic range, adding punch and presence, and evening out levels. But with so many different compressors and settings available, it can be tough to know where to start.

This guide will teach you the basics of audio compression, including the different types of compressors, the different controls they offer, and how to use them to achieve the desired results.

What is Audio Compression?

In simple terms, audio compression is the process of reducing the dynamic range of an audio signal. Dynamic range is the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of a signal. When you compress a signal, you're making the quiet parts louder and the loud parts quieter. This can have a number of different effects on the sound, depending on how you use it.

There are two main types of audio compression: ratio compression and multiband compression.

Ratio compression is the most common type of compression. It works by comparing the input signal to a set threshold. When the input signal exceeds the threshold, the compressor reduces the gain of the signal by a certain amount. The amount of gain reduction is determined by the ratio setting. A ratio of 2:1 means that for every 2 dB increase in the input signal, the output signal will only increase by 1 dB. A ratio of 4:1 means that for every 4 dB increase in the input signal, the output signal will only increase by 1 dB. And so on.

Multiband compression is a more advanced type of compression that allows you to compress different frequency bands of an audio signal independently. This can be useful for making specific changes to the sound of a signal, such as adding punch to the low end or clarity to the high end.

The Different Controls of a Compressor

Most compressors have a number of different controls that allow you to fine-tune the way they work. The most important controls are:

• Threshold: This sets the point at which the compressor starts to reduce gain.
• Ratio: This determines how much gain reduction is applied when the input signal exceeds the threshold.
• Attack: This determines how quickly the compressor reacts to changes in the input signal.
• Release: This determines how quickly the compressor stops reducing gain after the input signal falls below the threshold.
• Makeup gain: This boosts the overall level of the output signal after compression.

How to Use a Compressor

The best way to learn how to use a compressor is to experiment with it. Start by setting the threshold to a moderate level and the ratio to a high setting. Then, adjust the attack and release controls until you get a sound that you like.

Here are a few tips for using a compressor:

• Use compression to reduce dynamic range. This can make a track sound more consistent and polished.
• Use compression to add punch and presence to a sound. This is especially effective on vocals and drums.
• Use compression to even out levels. This can help to prevent clipping and make a track sound more professional.
• Don't be afraid to experiment. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to compression. The best way to find the right settings is to experiment and see what sounds good to you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using a compressor, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcompressing: Too much compression can make a sound sound harsh and unnatural.
• Not compressing enough: Not enough compression can make a sound sound dull and lifeless.
• Using the wrong settings: Using the wrong settings can make a sound sound unnatural or undesired.
• Not listening: The most important thing to remember when using a compressor is to listen to the results. Don't just set the controls and forget about them. Listen to the sound of the compression and make adjustments until you get the desired results.

Conclusion

Audio compression is a powerful tool that can be used to improve the sound of your recordings. By understanding the basics of compression and how to use it, you can add punch, presence, and clarity to your tracks. So don't be afraid to experiment with compression and see what you can create.