From the course: Audio Recording Techniques

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Using the compressor during recording

Using the compressor during recording

From the course: Audio Recording Techniques

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Using the compressor during recording

A compressor is nothing more than an automated level control that uses the input signal to determine the output level. They are used more in mixing than in recording, but it can be very useful under the right circumstances. I covered the description and the parameter controls and the basic setup of compressor and limiter in the audio mixing boot camp, so you might want to check that out first. In this video I'll show you how to use a compressor or limiter during recording. Many engineers use a compressor only to control peaks in the signal to prevent an overload. So the compressor is set up as a limiter. That means that the ratio control is set to 10:1 or higher. Have the player begin playing the part to be going and be playing in the song and start to make adjustments while you listen. We'll work with the bass guitar during this movie but the same approach can be taken if you're compressing guitar, vocals, or any instrument while recording. Set the Attack control to its slowest…

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