Compressor (What Does It Do?)

[Knopfler Fan]

Hey folks,

I'm thinking of purchasing a compressor but I just want to make sure that the compressor will accomplish what I want.

I'm currently recording vocals through a condenser mic with the ART pre-amp into my Fostex MR-8.

I noticed that when I sing loudly the vocals clip and when I sing softly in other parts of the song, the recording is too soft. I would like to have a consistent vocal volume. Is this where the compressor comes in?

If so, what's a good compressor to buy and what sort of other peripherals do I need to use it?

Any help is much appreciated.


KF

[BloodShark]

Check this out: http://www.prorec.com/prorec/article...25661000745390

[rguagenti]

A highly recommended read for newbies or non-techies(of which I am both) or people who just don't understand what compression is.

This was the best article I have read so far on compression. Plain English and no nonsense explanations.

Although I have kinda sorta gathered what compression was all about this article clearly explained threshhold, attack, ration, etc. and how they all fit together.

Thanks Bloodshark.

[Blue Bear Sound]

This one (by one of our own) is even better --> http://www.slackmaster2000.com/artic...ompression.htm

[BloodShark]

You can find other good articles on the same link related to EQ, since many people don't know how it works.

Enjoy!

[rguagenti]

Way ahead of you Bloodshark. EQ, Dynamics Processing, decibels. Done downloaded and printed and reading as we speak.

Blue Bear - haven't yet checked your info but I am hungry for knowledge so I am on my way there.

I am not worthy!

[cstockdale]

a compressor will indeed help, but do not forget mic technique: back off the mic a bit when you pump the volume and get in close, even eat it when you are singing softly