Compression and Makeup Gain

[sonicthehedgehogxp]

I usualy compress to lock dynamics in some tracks

[MistaMase102]

i understand the theory of compression, but it still confuses me, like why when i bring the threshold down does it start to become louder and sometimes start peaking, when its supposed to be quieter right?? i mean i havent added gain so why does it do that? its confusing how ppl explain it one way, then the compressor seems to do something completely different... compressors are weird man.

[gigabrid]

I love compressor and I used it a lot in my recordings since it is very effective tool in maintaining the correct level especially when using mics..but must be adjusted properly to get the best result.

[dariunas]

In the compression/no compression debate, I used to hate it, but then once I learned to use it properly and use the right types, I really appreciated how it can enhance a sound. I've heard it used so badly before and that's what put me off so much.

I tend to use it in quite a 'transparent' way and it can work really nicely.

[HiTopProd]

Haha - they turned up the gain until it was hitting red. Brilliant, now add digital distortion (not good) to your drum bus. Idiots!

[grizbazzen]

@HiTopProd heh eyeaa didnt seen to clever putting digital distortion on the drums heheh.. thank god for commen sense. :D

[dariunas]

@HiTopProd Wrong, wrong, wrong! You shouldn't question this vid so readily.

Firstly the 'red' on that needle was still below 0dB. Secondly, it was not a software plug-in and most certainly analogue. Analogue distortion can sound pretty nice.

From what I saw, there was never any clipping at any point, digital or otherwise. See that little dark red square above the meter on the left from 0:51 onwards? When that lights up bright red, we're clipping.

Give this guy more credit.

[bensonandtonicmusic]

Ohhh, ok. I got it. Thanks.

(Benson and Tonic)

[LleviathanzZ]

You know, , ,, you'll have to go beyond normal compression to get there, , , .

[LleviathanzZ]

Make up gain plays a vital role, , , , especially when compressing kicks in order to get that plucking timbre

[checkabreak]

i'm also a god of comp that's why i'm here ... in youtube writing this dumb lines like WTF do i KNOW about Yogurt ??!!??

[dbxdigi]

compression is very important though it should be used in moderation. If to much compression is used it will affect tone. Many engineers hate compression but I feel it is a must in some cases. For example, if there are dramatic differences in db level from one wave to the next, compression should be used in order to keep the level at a constant hot signal. If to much threshold is applied, there will be no dynamic range. Dynamic range is always important. It is a good idea to eq after comp.

[Obelisk2290]

compression is a great tool but when there is no dynamics that is tiring

one song i cant listen to is coll the engines by boston

[crackshotnoodles]

i agree, too much compression can runi a mix.

it takes time to get to know your cmopressor in and out and to know what gain reduction sounds best for each type of instrument or vocal, i think compressors are something that just shouldnt be used by an amature unless properly tought how to

[Capeau]

@crackshotnoodles

that is if you compress the total mix (on the master), but its better to compress by track and only add slight compression on the master.

[zerobio]

Love compression but not too much.

[41point2]

...and as I thought, you would respond in such a way as to remove any "Possible" Doubt.

What the fuck do "I" know about signal processing? You have heard my work %100 for sure. You may even have bought records using my equipment. My cilents have sold out Madison Square.

Lets just say I'm nuts and you are the smart on on Signal processing.

Name One single album by Zeppelin or Van Halen that was has not used some kind of quality compression in their mastering... (do you know what Mastering is?)

[41point2]

P.S. Mr Page has been quoted as saying he used an Altair limiter. I believe its the BA-6a. But then again what the fuck do I know about Signal Processing ... And I hate to burst your "Compressor Free" bubble but Mr. Van Halen uses among a number of compressors the Boss CS-2 Compression Sustainer foot pedal(You know what a foot pedal is Right?)

You Tube... With all the Sun Shine we are bound to some hot air.... AND DONE.

[soundant]

Pretty sure he was reponding to

killthepixelnow not you dude. Relax a little.

[killthepixelnow]

I'm pretty sure he doesn't know a damn thing about signal processing and most of the band's vocals and drum pieces uses a lot of compression on snare and kick when mixing.

... but he's a KILLER GUITAR PLAYER!!!

[zakvr]

AMAZING!

[coronet67]

I have to say- this video says to do something, but doesnt show how. I hate it when manuals and instructions do that. If youve got screen shots why not show the adjustments on the compressor as they are made?

[unmeproject]

mate, he is making a demo to you understand what a compression his.not making the best sound in the world, remenber there is no Rules!! use your ears "luke"!!

[LogicDeLuxe]

Actually he is more explaining what a limiter does (which is in deed not for the good in this case).

A properly tweaked compressor can in fact enhance the impact of drums without sacrificing dynamics.

It's usually bass or e-guitars where you want to reduce the dynamics. Drums really need to be dynamic, actually.

A really important thing shown in this video is the before/after comparison without boosting the volume at the same time. Only that way, you can really judge the effect.

[VonSeux]

sounds better without compression

[Mkamalid]

yeah :D