2 stupid questions

[jerberson12]

1. When should I apply compressor? For example, I played well on piano, rythm guitar, lead guitar, bass, drums and vocal. Assuming there's no too low and too loud on each track. Do I really need to compress a certain track. Suppose the music is rock.
It sounds like some part may sound better when compress rather than not.

2. Whats the difference between a compressor and a limiter? Well I know how to use a compressor but I cant compare to the limiter coz i never use limiter. my program software doesnt have this kind of plugins.


Sorry for the Newbie question

 

[fenix]

1. When it sounds good. Compressors are not necessarily used to control dynamic range. You may want to use a compressor to exaggerate attack on snare or kick, for example. If it sounds good, use it.

2. Limiters are compressors with high ratios generally speaking. You can use your compressor at a high ratio and a quick attack and it will sound something like a limiter, but some of the best limiters are ones that only limit such as the L1, L2, Aphex, dbx, manley, etc.

 

[ryanlikestorock]

If the recording sounds really really good and you're happy with it, I wouldn't even worry about playing with it. You're at where you want to be, right?

However, if you can hear that something's lacking and you think it might be compression, play around with it. I'm not too familiar with compression on individual instruments, but if you try mixing down your recording and running the whole mix through a light compression unit, you might get a bit more of that pro sound that you're looking for.

Be careful not to use too much... a little goes a long way with compression in mastering.