Things You'll Need:
- Audio compressor
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Step 1
Understand the controls. An audio compressor is broken down into the threshold, attack, release, compression ratio and make-up gain. The threshold sets the point at which the automatic volume reduction goes into effect. Anything below the level is not compressed. The compressor automatically reduces the volume of anything over the point to keep the signal from getting too loud.
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Step 2
Set the attack and release time. The attack time determines how quickly the volume is reduced once the input exceeds the threshold. If the attack is too low, a short burst of loud, unwanted sound can escape. You generally want a very fast attack time, but it varies depending on the instrument. The release time determines how quickly the volume returns to the original position when the input is no longer above the threshold. Once again, if it's too fast you'll have unwanted noise or volume. The setting depends on what you intend to use the compressor for.
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Step 3
The compression ratio determines how much the level is reduced relative to how far beyond the threshold the signal occurs. Use this formula: A ratio of 1:1 essentially does nothing. 2:1 equals a reduction of 1 dB if the input rises to 2 dB above the threshold. The formula continues based on the input of the threshold and the amount of reduction.
