Attack/Release on Bass compression

[Titanship]

I read some archives, and got some good info. But, I'd like to try to get some specific thoughts.

I'm short on gear, and I like to compress "to tape." I'm looking for a typical "warm, unobtrusive" bass tone. Specifically, how do some of you set your attack and release for this kind of bass? And what about ratio?

Thanks,

titan

 

[TexRoadkill]

It depends. Bass wavelengths are long and slow so you don't really need a fast attack. A good player doesn't need as much compression as a crappy one. A good bass will put out a more even tone across all octaves than a crappy one.

On my RNC I usually put the attack and release at mid point and then adjust ratio/threshold until it sounds good. The RNC is a cool compressor but it tends to distort on bass if you try to run it too fast.

If you want the bass more 'in your face' then try a faster release setting. A longer release will give you a smoother sound.

The best bass compressor is in the fingers of the player.