Compression

[TropicAllegro]

Very beginner question/s

What does compression do?
How do you use compression? (on the software?)
When do you use compression? ( during recording, after recording?)
Finally.....What instruments/ vocals do you use compression on?

I'm sure there are tons of threads about this but I couldn't find one that answered all these questions without confusing me or getting on another subject.

Thanks for any help!

 

[Massive Master]

In a nutshell, it reduces the dynamic range of whatever you're compressing - It makes loud things quieter so you can make the quiet things louder. With extreme settings, a whisper can be made to have the same volume as a scream.

You use it on whatever needs it. *POSSIBLY* on vocals, some drums, bass - No rules - Whatever has a dynamic range that's too wide. Someone who whacks the drums exactly the same every hit doesn't need it. A lesser drummer might require compression on almost every track.

You would "normally" use it after tracking - If it's printed to the track, it can't be removed.

 

[Kevin Deschwazi]

Lots of reading for you here:

http://www.theprojectstudiohandbook.com/articles3.htm

 

[get2sammyb]

I can't seem to find any compression on Adobe Audition. Is there any software I should use?

 

[Kevin Deschwazi]

I quite like blockfish but the controls are a bit novel and quirky so i probably wouldn't recommend it if you're just learning how to use a compressor:

http://www.digitalfishphones.com/main.php?item=2&subItem=5

Might be one to try a bit later though.

The Kjaerhus classic compressor is a very good sounding plug in (considering it's free) and the controls are a lot more like a regular compressor, the down side is no metering, still it's beter to use your ears than your eyes:

http://www.digitalfishphones.com/main.php?item=2&subItem=5