From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing

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Intelligently using compression presets

Intelligently using compression presets

From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing

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Intelligently using compression presets

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Say you've just got a fancy new compressor and notice it was loaded with tons of presets. Descriptions like "best vocal sound ever" and "snare to die for" fill this list, and you're thinking, this is it, I finally unlocked the secrets of mixing by purchasing this plug-in and all my problems are solved. While there's no doubt that presets are excellent starting points for discovering the features of a new tool, when it comes to presets for dynamics processors, there are a few simple rules to follow to set yourself up for success. First off, dynamics presets can actually be pretty awesome and often do exactly what you're looking for right out of the gate--if you know how to use them. The secret to using compression presets is to understand that the preset has no idea what kind of signal level is coming in. Therefore, the default threshold and makeup gain settings are almost always going to be completely wrong, either giving you too much compression, too little compression, or even…

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