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Chapter 4 Dynamics processors 87
Other Compressor parameters
As 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, Compressor can analyze the signal using one of two
methods: Peak or root mean square (RMS). While Peak is technically more accurate, RMS provides
a better indication of how people perceive the signal loudness.
Note: If you turn on Auto Gain and RMS simultaneously, the signal may become oversaturated.
If you hear any distortion, turn o Auto Gain and adjust the Gain slider until the distortion
is inaudible.
Use a side chain with Compressor
Use of a side chain with a compressor is common. The dynamics (level changes) of another
channel strip is used 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.
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.
1 Insert Compressor into a channel strip.
2 In the Compressor plug-in window header, choose the channel strip that carries the desired
signal (side-chain source) from the Side Chain pop-up menu.
3 Choose the desired analysis method (Max or Sum) from the Side Chain Detection pop-up menu.
4 Adjust Compressor parameters.
DeEsser
DeEsser is a frequency-specic 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.
The advantage of using DeEsser rather than an EQ to cut high frequencies is that it compresses
the signal dynamically, rather than statically. This prevents the sound from becoming darker
when no sibilance is present in the signal. DeEsser has extremely fast attack and release times.
When using DeEsser, you can set the frequency range being compressed (the Suppressor
frequency) independently of the frequency range being analyzed (the Detector frequency). The
two ranges can be compared in DeEsser’s Detector and Suppressor frequency range displays. The
Suppressor frequency range is reduced in level for as long as the Detector frequency threshold
is exceeded.