Question on Compressor for that special "punch" in mixing

[amt7565]

I am planning to get a compressor for my guitar. So that I can route my POD through it. I am currently using a ROLAND MIDI module to give me all other sounds. This I will convert to Audio. I just want to know if routing the MIDI audio output through a compressor will add some punch to the MIDI audio mix. Or will it enhance the quality of my sound in any way. Also is it necessary to get an EQ? I am relatively new to mixing. Please advise folks

[TexRoadkill]

FYI- Midi is not something you convert to audio. Midi is control information. You will still record the audio from your Roland like any other audio source.

So sure, a compressor on synth parts can help also.

[amt7565]

Tex,
Yes I certainly do understand that MIDI is simple control text messages. I just wanted to know about controlling the MIDI 'module' audio output.
Thanks and I will try to manipulate the sound with a compressor.

[DarthFaders]

EQ is a necessity in mixing. I would say that compression is, also. Just do whatever sounds good to you!

Darth

[darrin_h2000]

It is nice to screw with the outputs to the midi devices some by running them through a tube pre or an exciter to round off the waves a little.

[Chris Shaeffer]

Hmmm... Most of the MIDI stuff I do is background stuff, but I've always found that I have enough control of the MIDI dynamics that compressing it wasn't necessary. I'm not sure if it would really do much for a decent performance.

But then, I'm not that experienced with compressor's either.

I like the idea of a tube pre, though. I do my MIDI work with soft synths in Cubase and put them through tube plugs and such all the time to breath some life into them.

Take care,
Chris

[TexRoadkill]

Chris brings up a good point. You can quantize the velocities within a tighter range if you need to smooth out the volume a bit from an erratic performance.

Compression can help though if you want to retain the sound characteristics of the different velocity levels but still have a more controlled volume.

Save the compression for the mixdown to see if you really need it. Dont track with it or you will be stuck.

[amt7565]

Thanks Guys!