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Table Of Contents
Increasing the Knee parameter value increases the amount of compression as the signal
approaches the threshold, creating a smoother transition. This is called soft knee
compression.
Setting Other Compressor Parameters
As the compressor reduces levels, the overall volume at its output is typically lower than
the input signal. You can adjust the output level with the Gain slider.
You can also use the Auto Gain parameter to compensate for the level reduction caused
by compression (choose either −12 dB or 0 dB).
When you use the Platinum circuit type, the Compressor can analyze the signal using
one of two methods: Peak or root mean square (RMS). While Peak is more technically
accurate, RMS provides a better indication of how people perceive the signal loudness.
Note: If you activate Auto Gain and RMS simultaneously, the signal may become
over-saturated. If you hear any distortion, switch Auto Gain off and adjust the Gain slider
until the distortion is inaudible.
Using a Side Chain with the Compressor
Use of a side chain with a compressor is common. This allows you to use the dynamics
(level changes) of another channel strip as a control source for compression. For example,
the dynamics of a drum groove can be used to rhythmically change the compression,
and therefore dynamics, of a guitar part.
Important: The side-chain signal is used only as a detector or trigger in this situation. The
side-chain source is used to control the Compressor, but the audio of the side-chain signal
is not actually routed through the Compressor.
To use a side chain with the Compressor
1 Insert the Compressor into a channel strip.
2 Select the channel strip that carries the desired signal (side-chain source) in the Side Chain
menu of the Compressor plug-in.
3 Choose the desired analysis method (Max or Sum) from the Side Chain Detection pop-up
menu.
4 Adjust the Compressor parameters.
DeEsser
The DeEsser is a frequency-specific compressor, designed to compress a particular
frequency band within a complex audio signal. It is used to eliminate hiss (also called
sibilance) from the signal.
72 Chapter 4 Dynamics Processors