Volume envelopes + Compression + Vocals

  • Thread starter Thread starter ShanPeyton
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ShanPeyton

ShanPeyton

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Question for all of you.

I have some vocals with some pretty extreme high db's and low db's. I am just starting to get familiar with how compression works and stuff. I have been also reading a bit on using volume envelopes.

I am wondering if i am wasting my time or doubling my efforts by using a volume envelope on the really loud parts before using any kind of compression? Can the two techniques work harmoniously? Or am i just wasting time i don't need to be. Is this where i should be spending more time learning my compressors?

In my mind if simply rely on a compressor to reduce the really loud bits it may have a slightly unnatural sound to it? Where as if i go in and bring down the super loud bits with the envelope first the compressor won't be working overtime and the attack and release won't be as noticeable.

I like the results of the combination, but maybe i am just doing it wrong? Am I way out in left field.
 
Yes, by all means use both! Most DAWs have a way to chop the audio into separate regions (chunks) and then raise or lower the "input gain" of those regions. This should all happen before the fader, so that any EQ, compression, fader moves happen after it. This way, you can even out a performance before compression, so that the compressor "sees" a similar level. It won't be barely working on quite sections and murdering the loud sections.

I always do this before ever touching effects, especially on vocals. Learning it was a life saver.
 
Yes to using both.

I'd normally use compression (as gentle a setting as possible) to tame the worst of the peaks and troughs before I start then use volume envelops to control how each individual phrase (or even syllable when it gets bad) sits in the mix.

Compression for basic level control and envelopes for detailed mixing.
 
Ok cool. Glad i am not too far out in left field then.

Thanks guys.
 
You can look at them as each have their different sounds as how they effect things- in addition to fader automation (levels after the comp), 'gain or 'clip automation feeding into the comp as it relates to how it now hits the threshold.
(occasionally I'll automate the threshold ..sort of a distant fourth option :D
 
I'd submit that you should have it 95% "there" using volume automation.

Compression doesn't "control the volume" -- It reduces the dynamic range of the signal -- They're not exactly the same.
 
Massive Master said:
I'd submit that you should have it 95% "there" using volume automation.

Compression doesn't "control the volume" -- It reduces the dynamic range of the signal -- They're not exactly the same.
Click to expand...

This is all I came here to say. I'm thoroughly enjoying clip gain in PT 10 at the minute. :)
 
I use compression because I like the sound of it. I take care of volume during tracking, and then with volume automation.
 
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