Using the Compressor

A Compressor is used to reduce the dynamic range of program material. By reducing the peak levels of the audio, the overall output level can be increased, resulting in a more even sound.

The controls available on the Compressor are:

• Ratio — Controls the level of compression. Higher ratio settings cause the output level to be less sensitive to the input level.
  
• Threshold (THRESH) — This controls the input level at which compression begins. Input which is BELOW the set threshold level is unaffected by the compressor. Therefore, lower threshold settings (more negative) cause the compressor to have more effect on the signal.
  
• Attack — Controls the speed at which the compressor acts on the signal. Lower settings cause a faster attack.
  
• Release — Controls how long the compressor keeps the gain reduced on the signal. Lower settings cause a faster release.
  
• Knee — Controls how smooth the transition is between below threshold and above threshold input signals. Higher settings make the transition more smooth.

The Compressor Input/Output transfer function is displayed on the Compressor Graph. The audio level is also superimposed on this graph, as well as gain reduction. This graphically demonstrates the action the compressor is taking on the signal.