Compressor

The compressor operates as a versatile, essential tool for controlling dynamics, offering both standard and creative applications.
See the block diagram below for the signal flow of the compressor module:

Key Features

• Knee Types: Choose from hard, firm, moderate, or soft knees to fine-tune the compressor’s response curve.
• Analysis Modes: Select between Peak, RMS, or Peak+RMS for different compression behaviors.
• Make-up Gain: Adjust from -48 to 48 dB to compensate for level reduction.
• Lookahead: Set from 0 to 10ms for precise timing control (note: introduces latency).
• Ratio: Range from 1:1 to 1:16, with 1:16 functioning similarly to a limiter.
• Threshold: Adjustable from -60 to 12 dB, with typical values around -20 to -40 dB.
• Attack and Release: Customisable timing for compression onset and recovery.

Typical Usage Scenarios

• Punchy Sounds:
  • Set higher ratios (e.g., 1:4 to 1:8)
  • Use a low threshold (e.g., -30 to -20 dB)
  • Set moderately short attack times (around 20ms)
  • Adjust release to taste, typically 50-200ms
• Vocal Leveling:
  • Use a moderate ratio (e.g., 1:3 to 1:5)
  • Set threshold to catch peaks (around -15 to -10 dB)
  • Use a medium attack (10-20ms) and longer release (50-300ms)
• Bass Guitar Consistency:
  • Apply a higher ratio (e.g., 1:6 to 1:8)
  • Set a low threshold (-25 to -20 dB)
  • Use a fast attack (5-10ms) and medium release (50-100ms)

Creative Applications

• Distortion Effects:
  • Set extremely short attack and release times (both at 0ms)
  • Use a low threshold and high ratio
  • This creates unique distortions due to rapid switching at zero crossings
• Transient Shaping:
  • Use a high ratio (1:8 or higher)
  • Set a medium-high threshold
  • Use a very fast attack (0-1ms) and fast release (10-30ms)
  • This can emphasise or de-emphasise transients, depending on your source material
• Parallel Compression:
  • Use extreme settings (high ratio, low threshold, fast attack)
  • Mix this compressed signal with the dry signal for added punch and sustain

Caution
When using the compressor as a gate with extremely short attack and release times (both set to 0ms), you may introduce unique distortions. These distortions are intentional, resulting from the rapid switching of the gate at each zero crossing. While this can be used creatively, be mindful of potential artefacts in your audio. The key to effective compression is experimentation and critical listening.