Track Compressor

Compression allows you to limit the dynamic range of a signal and is often applied to a signal to make it stand out in a mix.

Item

Description

Preset

If you do not want to configure the plug-in parameters, you can specify a preset from the Preset drop-down list.

Save Preset

Allows you to save the current settings as a preset. This preset can then be specified from the Preset drop-down list.

Delete Preset

Deletes the selected custom preset.

Input Level (dB)

The Input Level meters display the input level prior to the compressor acting upon the signal. Right-clicking on the meter displays a shortcut menu where meter resolutions and options can be specified.

Output Level (dB)

The Output Level meters display the output level after the compressor acts upon the signal . Right- clicking on the meter displays a shortcut menu where meter resolutions and options can be specified.

Reduction (dB)

The Reduction meter displays the level that the signal is being compressed in real-time.

Threshold (dB)

The Threshold value determines the level at which the dynamics processor begins acting on the signal. When the signal's level rises above the threshold, compression begins. A low threshold will cause more of the signal to be compressed. Excessive compression beginning at a very low threshold will usually result in distortion.

Amount (X:1)

The Amount value determines the compression ratio. It is displayed as a ratio and read as how many dB above the threshold must the signal go to result in a 1 dB increase in output level. For example, a compressor with a 3:1 ratio will need the input signal to rise 6 dB above the threshold in order to raise the output signal by 2 dB.

Attack (ms)

The Attack value determines the time it takes the compressor's gain reduction to reach its maximum value.

Release (ms)

The Release value determines the time it takes the compressor's gain reduction to drop from its maximum value back to zero.

Auto gain compensation

When this option is selected, the output of the compressor will be boosted by a constant amount based on the Threshold and Ratio settings. This prevents a loss in overall level when compressing. However, when Auto gain compensation is enabled, the Output Gain slider should still be used to fine tune the output level.

Smooth Saturation

The Smooth Saturation option lowers the amount of distortion created by applying heavy compression. When this check box is selected, the compression level is adjusted to reduce the "pumping" or "breathing" effect.