what is compression and when do i use it and why?

1. Answered: 176 day 4 h (0) | Permalink

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   Chris Hollis

   Compression is an effect used to even out and sometimes 'beef up' recorded audio. The simple explaination is that it 'compresses' the audio signal, making the quieter parts of a waveform louder and - in some cases - the louder parts quieter. This gives the sound a much more even spread and can be used to make vocals sound stronger, even up a drum sound, or even be applied to a whole mix to give it a more rounded vibe.

   A compressor works by setting a 'threshold' level - which is the volume point at which the compressor kicks in, and then the speed at which it reacts to the audio. So a compressor with a LOW threshold and a fast response will crush the audio more than that with a high threshold and a slow response. There's a more detailed description here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqHGICG27ys

    

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