From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing
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Intelligently using compression presets
From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing
Intelligently using compression presets
Say you've just got a fancy new compressor and notice it was loaded with tons of presets. Descriptions like "best vocal sound ever" and "snare to die for" fill this list, and you're thinking, this is it, I finally unlocked the secrets of mixing by purchasing this plug-in and all my problems are solved. While there's no doubt that presets are excellent starting points for discovering the features of a new tool, when it comes to presets for dynamics processors, there are a few simple rules to follow to set yourself up for success. First off, dynamics presets can actually be pretty awesome and often do exactly what you're looking for right out of the gate--if you know how to use them. The secret to using compression presets is to understand that the preset has no idea what kind of signal level is coming in. Therefore, the default threshold and makeup gain settings are almost always going to be completely wrong, either giving you too much compression, too little compression, or even…
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Contents
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Introducing compressors1m 45s
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Understanding threshold1m 29s
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(Locked)
Utilizing compression ratios3m
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Understanding makeup gain and gain reduction3m 13s
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Understanding attack and release2m 12s
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Applying attack and release5m 22s
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Demystifying compression controls: soft knee vs. hard knee2m 43s
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Get in the Mix: Using compression to even out a vocal performance4m 55s
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Get in the Mix: Using compression to add punch and sustain to drums4m 39s
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Intelligently using compression presets3m 6s
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Recording with compression: Why or why not?2m 53s
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Recording with compression: How to do it3m 23s
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