Manual

24
The following provides a general description of some effective approaches and starting
points:
2.3.9.1 Fast as Possible Approach
To obtain absolute maximum modulation and minimum dynamic range, the best approach is
to set release times to minimum, increase the hold time just enough to the reduce LF
distortion to acceptable levels, and increase the attack time just enough to allow some
overshoot on percussive peaks, in order to retain some impression of programme dynamics.
The appropriate level of compression can then be obtained using the threshold, ratio and soft
ratio controls. The overshoots produced by the attack times can be controlled by the use of
the programme limiter section.
2.3.9.2 Natural Dynamics Approach
To obtain a more natural compression a good starting point is to set the attack and release
controls to mid positions with hold control at minimum (this is the fixed setting of the Classic
compressor style). This approach aims to match to some degree the dynamics of the ear’s
response and recovery from loud sounds at relatively high sound pressure levels. Variations
on these moderate settings can yield realistic results if appropriately adjusted to suit the
intended reproduction levels of the programme.
2.3.9.3 Slow and Gentle Approach
For level control with the least possible intrusion, set the attack and release times to the
longest possible times, perhaps with the addition of the hold control to increase the release
times further. This ensures that the highest levels within the programme material are
controlled gently, and the gain recovery in the quiet passages is almost imperceptibly slow.
This method is most effective when used in conjunction with the larger soft ratio settings, as
this ensures that compression commences well before the target maximum level, providing a
degree of prediction.