Compressor Settings...

[newatthis]

Maybe this question is one that cant be answered,,,but here goes anyway,,,,

Is there compressor setting that seem to work out best for certain instruments (as a standard) for recording? (ex: whats the Threshold, Attack, Release ect) you use with Vocals, Drums, Keys, etc.

Some of you more advanced engineers must have a "set and forget" type setting for these instruments that you can use most of the time>?>?

Also, do any of you just compress the Main Out instead of using inserts for individule channels?

I am playing with these compressors, but I am not sure what exactly I am doing yet,,,,or if it sounds right.

Thanks
The NewB

 

[Rokket]

Maybe this question is one that cant be answered,,,but here goes anyway,,,,

Is there compressor setting that seem to work out best for certain instruments (as a standard) for recording? (ex: whats the Threshold, Attack, Release ect) you use with Vocals, Drums, Keys, etc.

Some of you more advanced engineers must have a "set and forget" type setting for these instruments that you can use most of the time>?>?

Also, do any of you just compress the Main Out instead of using inserts for individule channels?

I am playing with these compressors, but I am not sure what exactly I am doing yet,,,,or if it sounds right.

Thanks
The NewB

I am far from an advanced engineer, but I will try answer that. I hope someone more experienced will give this a look.
As far as compression, you don't need it on every track of your song. Only if you have problems with peaks that go over 0dB, and cause clipping and other parts of the tracks are low. It's used to even out the waveform and make the sound as constant as possible throughout the track. For me, the amount of compression varies with each recording. I try harder to make sure I've tracked properly to avoid having to use compression, but sometimes it's needed to make the track stand out. You have to use your ears. If it sounds right, it must be.
I wouldn't recommend compression on the main outs, only the individual tracks that need it. Before you apply it, mix without it, and then any tracks that may need that extra boost, give it to them.
That's about all I can offer with my limited knowledge. As I said, hopefully someone a little more experienced will see this and help out.

 

[Kevin Deschwazi]

Just post questions in the one forum.