Compressors and Limiters

Compressors and Limiters

Compressors are categorized as limiters. With these devices it is possible to edit the dynamic range or volume of an instrument, voice or a whole song. They lower the volume of loud passages so the volume difference between the loudest and quietest part is balanced. Single tracks of a music production, e.g. the voice will become more compressed and forceful in the process.

Their mode of operation differs depending on the device chosen. Compressors that are based on tube technology possess a relatively slow control time and produce a certain sound colouring that most often is perceived as very pleasant. Optical (optoelectronic) compressors instead process faster and generate a straighter signal. Faster processing is well suited for audio material with an emphasis on percussive sounds but has the side effect of a light reduction within overtones. Experienced music producers use an enhancer to compensate this issue.

Besides the standard broadband compressor there is an increasing usage of multi-band compressors. They are able to compress a single frequency within the audio material.