Which compressor?

[ThaArtist]

I got the presonus firepod and I'm still a newbie with some aspects of recording and music... my question is whats a good compressor for about $100-$200...

And this probably sounds pretty stupid but do I need to compress every mic used with instruments etc. Or do I just need to compress the vocal mics really?

So far I'm only seeing the two that presonus makes...

ANYONE?

[scrubs]

No, you don't need to compress everything. In fact, if you aren't comfortable with what compressors do, perhaps you shouldn't compress anything at all while tracking. Poorly used compression (and cheap compressors) can do more harm than good. You can always mess around with software compression once you've tracked (try the Blockfish compressor from Digital Fishphones, or the Classic compressor from Kjaerhus -- they're both free VST plugins).

That being said, the FMR Audio RNC (Really Nice Compressor) is a decent first outboard comp. It is $175 new and fairly neutral sounding in Supernice mode. For a little more color, look into the RNLA, JoeMeek, or dbx compressors.

[grweldon]

I have (and use) some of the cheaper DBX compressors. I have a 262 which has controls for ratio, threshold and output gain. I also have a 266, which in addition to the same controls as the 262, has a control for attack and release times, plus an expander/gate. Both feature "overeasy" compression, which I guess is a patented name for DBXs brand of slight compression. I find they both work well for their intended purpose.

They will definately squash your signal to the point of where it has hardly any dynamic range if you want them to do so. Most of the time when used in that manner, the results aren't pretty.

I've used compression (sparingly) with everything from drums, to acoustic and electric guitars and especially vocals. It all depends on what type of results you are looking for. I'd take the previous post's author's advice and try some of the plug-ins to see what they can do for you before you drop a couple of bills on an external analog (or digital?) device.

[ThaArtist]

Well I've used Adobe Auditions Dynamic Processing filter which seems to work pretty well and Ive developed some good presets as well.

However I would like something more automated I guess... and... I was just told it was the right way to go...

I don't know... I guess I'll have to do more research.

Any more info from anyone is appreciate of course.

[tourettes5139]

Originally Posted by scrubs

That being said, the FMR Audio RNC (Really Nice Compressor) is a decent first outboard comp. It is $175 new and fairly neutral sounding in Supernice mode.

+1 I love my RNC.

[ssscientist]

A second vote for 'love my RNC'.

Scrubbs is an old stick in the mud. But then I don't take criticism, or should I say faint praise, of my favorite gear too well.

In my humble opinion, you have to spend a WHOLE lot more to get as good a compressor as the FMC Really Nice Compressor. And I LOOOOOOOVE my compression...

[ThaArtist]

So I guess RNC is the way to go... ugly box though... but oh well if it does the job well, I guess I can handle an eyesore...

Thanks everyone.

[dwillis45]

Originally Posted by ThaArtist

So I guess RNC is the way to go... ugly box though... but oh well if it does the job well, I guess I can handle an eyesore...

Thanks everyone.

If you really hate the box, check out the FunkLogic rackmount/face plate:

http://www.mercenary.com/funklogic.html

[ThaArtist]

Ah an extra 60 bucks for a case... i dont think its that ugly... lol i am a designer maybe i should design something and have it printed into a sticker at kinkos or some shit... lol...

if it works good... it works good... thats main priority... thanks for ya reply...

[cafr]

I am looking for a compressor/gate/limiter for broadcasting needs. I was/am looking at the dbx 1066 Dual Mono/Stereo Compressor/Limiter with Gate.

Has anyone ever used this with broadcasting needs?
Would RNC work fine as well?

Thanks for the help.

[SonicAlbert]

What specifically do you need it to for your broadcasting?

I'd suggest you take a look at the Aphex Compellor. It was designed for broadcasting and does the job extremely well.

[cafr]

Sonic,

It better do something very well for the price of it.

How do you like the PreSonus compressors/limiters?
Such as the CL44 and BlueMax?

[bad intentionz]

http://www.samash.com/catalog/showit...RCH&GroupCode= is that the RNC?????????

[scrubs]

Originally Posted by bad intentionz

http://www.samash.com/catalog/showit...RCH&GroupCode= is that the RNC?????????

Yes, although they list is as being made by a company called EDS. The RNC (Really Nice Compressor) is made by FMR Audio.

http://www.humbuckermusic.com/1001.html

These guys have it cheaper and you get free cables.