Secrets of Compression

The compressor has become a studio stalwart, but all too often its true capabilities are overlooked. Mark Cousins is on the level...

Who would have thought that an automatic sound-levelling device – in other words, a compressor – could play such an important and compelling role in the recording and mixing processes? In truth, though, compression is one of the most versatile and essential tools an engineer has at their disposal, offering control over fluctuating dynamic movements that can make a mix seem uncoordinated and unlistenable, as well as the ability to give a perception of loudness and intensity to your music. However, achieving such a wide variety of sonic objectives requires considerably more than just a ‘tweak and go’ approach to using compression.

This feature first appeared in Music Tech Magazine issue 52
Filed under General Features

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