How The Pros Use Compression on Instruments and Mixes

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 19 кві 2024
  • Secrets of How the Pros use Compression. In this video I discuss how compression works: Ratio, Threshold, Attack, Release, Hard-Knee, Soft Knee, Gain Reduction. What are and How to use the Plugin and Hardware Versions of:
    Optical Compressors - like the LA2A, LA3A, Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor.Tube Tech CL1B
    FET Compressors - Universal Audio 1176, Purple Audio MC77, Universal Audio 1176 Blue Stripe, Universal Audio 1178
    VCA Compressors - SSL G Series, Alan Smart C2, Neve 33609
    Variable MU - Fairchild 660 and 670, Manley Variable MU. Altec 436C,
    How To Compress and What to Use - Kick Drum, Snare, Toms, Overheads, Room Mic and Drum Buss Compression.
    I also provide examples of using compression plugins in individual Instruments and the Mix Buss.
    The song I use at the end is called "Live This Lie" that I wrote with my friend and Australian DJ TyDi
    BECOME A PATRON → bit.ly/2tqdPLG
    THE BEATO EAR TRAINING PROGRAM: beatoeartraining.com/
    BUY THE BEATO BOOK HERE → bit.ly/2uTQFlo
    SUBSCRIBE HERE → bit.ly/2eEs9gX
    --------------------------------------
    My Links to Follow:
    UA-cam - / rickbeato
    Artist Facebook - / rickbeatoproduction
    Personal Facebook - / rick.beato.1
    Instagram - / rickbeato1
    Follow On Twitter - @rickbeato
    www.nuryl.com

КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,5 тис.

  • @RickBeato
    @RickBeato  2 роки тому +40

    For those non-musicians that have written to me you can donate to my channel through this link on my website rickbeato.com/pages/donate
    Or you can become a member of the Beato Club. My Beato Club is exactly like Patreon.

    • @ilo0076
      @ilo0076 2 роки тому +3

      You explained it very well and in electronic music, from chill, electro pop to dance, Edm to trap, house, techno etc. will the same rules be applied to compression?

    • @HAJensen19987
      @HAJensen19987 2 роки тому +1

      How do you feel about the Logic Pro Compressors? Do I need to get a different software compressor if all I have is Logic Pro?

    • @kevinrakestraw3787
      @kevinrakestraw3787 Рік тому +1

      @@ilo0076 I’m not on Beato’s level by any means, but the concepts here absolutely apply across the board in general. Like his comments about the LA2A treating low end frequencies better than others. Instead of taking notes word for word, I just made notes on problems and solutions. (Like the 1176 having ultra fast atk & release times) regardless of what sounds he uses it on.

    • @dr.dthazelrig5770
      @dr.dthazelrig5770 Рік тому +3

      @@HAJensen19987 Try something interesting: record without compression. Too many young audio engineers cut themselves short by jumping straight to the tools of pros who have spent years learning how to use them. The best thing you can do is get Nick's ear training book, learn to identify frequencies, and move on from there into other tools. Once you can clearly/consistently identify by frequency you'll already be more than halfway there.
      I hope that helped.
      Dr. DT Hazelrig (Ph.D.)

    • @jSpirituS7
      @jSpirituS7 Рік тому +1

      I feel like I should be paying you right now... lol

  • @cjparrott
    @cjparrott 4 роки тому +1148

    defn 0:18
    ratios 1:00
    attack 4:06
    release 7:40
    mix bus 9:14
    types of 11:19
    drum plugins 20:53
    bass plugins 23:32
    guitars plugins 24:00
    piano plugins 25:07
    vocal plugins 26:01
    drum buss 26:41
    ...this is for me

  • @iane.millais2982
    @iane.millais2982 5 років тому +1059

    Hi Rick, We studied together at Berklee. I graduated 1984. You continue to shine and bring deep knowledge to us all. Thanks for the great lesson.

    • @BeardedKingface
      @BeardedKingface 4 роки тому +47

      wholesome comment! you doing audio too?

    • @christopheberthier2285
      @christopheberthier2285 3 роки тому +2

      Genius...

    • @thedevilsadvocate5210
      @thedevilsadvocate5210 2 роки тому +11

      Did you go to Daddy’s Junky Music.

    • @jamestowlson
      @jamestowlson Рік тому

      @@thedevilsadvocate5210 one of us!

    • @MRVIDEOMASTER-yw1qw
      @MRVIDEOMASTER-yw1qw Рік тому +2

      God loves you all! The Father sent the Son to die for you and your sins so that you could experience freedom to the fullest! Believe in Christ's death and resurrection (which sealed the work done on the cross) for your salvation and the forgiveness of sins! Amen

  • @therealliveguy
    @therealliveguy 3 роки тому +417

    The best, most comprehensive explanation of compression on youtube. PERIOD.

    • @luisaucedo
      @luisaucedo 3 роки тому +2

      period PERIODperiod

    • @nishantrajanwal8377
      @nishantrajanwal8377 3 роки тому

      Lal lolita let ll send lol and love l

    • @mal9817
      @mal9817 3 роки тому +3

      KtM great information thank you

    • @harrysachs2274
      @harrysachs2274 2 роки тому

      The real question, do I need a compressor pedal?

    • @crigonalgaming1258
      @crigonalgaming1258 2 роки тому

      @@harrysachs2274 if you use single coils? Absolutely. It tames the shrill singlecoils, and increases your output. Humbuckers are already compressed to death, so it's optional.

  • @hockeytalk6084
    @hockeytalk6084 Рік тому +53

    I know this is an old video but man I feel like I just took a whole college course for free! Thank you Rick! This filled in so many holes in my knowledge of compression that I I actually feel really confident and excited to start experimenting with different compressors in different situations now

  • @dogh2o921
    @dogh2o921 4 роки тому +537

    This video will teach you in 30 minutes what took you 30 years to hardly figure out and all without confusion. Yous just saved yourself a grip of money as well. Beato is the 6 blade knife and a highly accomplished musician/guitarist as well. He is officially uncle Rick.

    • @rcc3music
      @rcc3music 4 роки тому +1

      TRUTH!

    • @davidl.e5203
      @davidl.e5203 4 роки тому +18

      It'll be cool if he also takes me out for an intergalactic space adventure and let me have my way with Jessica.

    • @thedevilsadvocate5210
      @thedevilsadvocate5210 3 роки тому +10

      If you took 30 years to learn that give it up

    • @simongosimon
      @simongosimon 3 роки тому

      I feel like a compressor pedal is more for live use anyway, i think you can get better results with most DAWs

    • @lightafluident.9950
      @lightafluident.9950 3 роки тому +2

      @@thedevilsadvocate5210 LMAO, RIGHT!!!!

  • @masonvonritchie
    @masonvonritchie 2 роки тому +37

    I had my DAW open on one screen and had this video playing on another screen. In the course of this 30-minute video, I was able to make a mix sound so much better using the information in this video. This is the definitive guide to compression and it helped me make sense of it in a way that nobody else has been able to. Rick, you are a national treasure and you must be protected at all costs.

  • @Rovira2920
    @Rovira2920 3 роки тому +40

    i cant imagine im learning from this for free. Every Audio Engineer needs to Pay for this Knowledge,

    • @tangogrrl
      @tangogrrl 3 роки тому +1

      OTOH, you can join the Beato club! Guilt - solved!

  • @thelastcell
    @thelastcell 3 роки тому +54

    So many people I tried to learn from treated mixing and mastering like some elite practice and not like science where you just have to start with fundamentals and then learn step by step - The way Rick gives so many people insight is remarkable - I love what you are doing for the whole music community Rick ! Thank you so much

    • @ryancarlisle2931
      @ryancarlisle2931 2 роки тому +1

      @@jsullivan2112 Exactly. :-) Well said. That is the truth.

    • @maxi-me
      @maxi-me Рік тому +1

      Well, quite honestly you have to have an ear for it to start with. It's not _all_ eyeball science, there's at least _some_ biology. It can be trained to some degree, but just like athletics or any other endeavor some will just have a natural inclination, while others who work twice as hard won't get as desirable results.
      The ear is necessary because there are so many anomalies with different recording rooms, mixing rooms, microphones, drum heads, strings, vocal cords etc, etc, etc...
      Fortunately AI is not far off from giving _anyone_ the ability to hum out-of-tune into their phone and have an algorithm assemble a _Red Book_ recording, replete with brilliant lyrics, astonishing performance, original composition and a 32 piece philharmonic orchestra.

    • @FlaxeMusic
      @FlaxeMusic 5 місяців тому

      @@maxi-me Hard disagree. "It can be trained to some degree"-no, it can be trained to an intensely refined degree. And this isn't sport, there is no objective better, or objective winner. Your ears are uniquely yours, your preferences are uniquely yours and those facts makes YOU doing the work objectively valuable.

  • @benja303
    @benja303 4 роки тому +277

    Notes to self:
    Dynamic range / loudness is a function of music that needs to be addressed at the mixing stage.
    Gaining perspective on the loudness of your song:
    A) use metering
    check the LUFS , rms, perceived loudness
    B) find a professionally mixed reference track and a b your mix with it on different systems
    If your tracks are not loud enough, you obviously need to get them louder.
    How do you make loud mixes?
    First understand the relationship between dynamic range and loudness.
    What is dynamic range ?
    Dynamic range is the difference between the quietest and loudest parts of your track.
    Digital Audio goes from - infinity to 0 (loudest).
    When you cross 0 you get distortion.
    By limiting your audio to -0.1 you can then just jack up the volume and get max loudness without distorting right ?
    Wrong.
    When you start trying to make it louder you will start to lose parts of your Audio. The transients will go first, so your drums ah start sound Lakka doo doo.
    So how do you gain loudness without losing parts of your Audio or distorting?
    You could :
    - Lower the volume of your transients
    - lower the bass
    - compact the sound by reducing the dynamic range and then raising the volume
    That’s where compression comes in.
    It’s a tool you can use as a function Of compacting Audio aka reducing dynamic range.
    But how does reducing dynamic range help make a track louder? How does compacting Audio and then doing gain compensation help?
    It helps because you get more perceived loudness while taking up less volume, so now you are further away from the ceiling but it sounds just as loud. Now when you come to limit you can raise it even louder.
    It’s like being space efficient.
    - Notes to self to be continued

    • @emilianolopez5631
      @emilianolopez5631 4 роки тому +3

      Excellent!

    • @L.DOT.P.
      @L.DOT.P. 4 роки тому +1

      Wow

    • @joshuafrank869
      @joshuafrank869 3 роки тому +1

      Amazing 🙏

    • @alebarchini
      @alebarchini 3 роки тому +13

      Nice. I would add that there are more goals that you can achieve with compression, not only loudness. You can obtain more definition or sustain, as you are able to enhance the back ends, or, as it is said on the video, you make the sound more even. All of this at the cost of reducing dynamic range, which in the other hand could be valuable thing that you are losing, thats why the dynamics of piano and forte exist.

    • @nilsa6947
      @nilsa6947 3 роки тому

      This is dope

  • @havick104
    @havick104 5 років тому +1503

    I just learned I have no idea what Im doing!

    • @OtherTheDave
      @OtherTheDave 5 років тому +68

      havick104 I love it when that happens... means my life’s about to get easier.

    • @pavle988
      @pavle988 5 років тому +13

      Yea im on it too :)

    • @curtisb.9101
      @curtisb.9101 5 років тому +13

      Hahahahahah! SAME

    • @OtherTheDave
      @OtherTheDave 5 років тому +10

      Emanuel Walker Was, yeah. Might be again someday if this whole “software dev” thing doesn’t work out.

    • @midnightkiteflight6333
      @midnightkiteflight6333 5 років тому +10

      Welcome to the world of mixing I guess

  • @cosmictom5255
    @cosmictom5255 3 роки тому +161

    Fat back end was my high school nickname.

  • @topazboy333
    @topazboy333 3 роки тому +11

    This is the only compression tutorial on UA-cam I’ve ever felt like I’ve gotten something out of

  • @GoodVibeTribe
    @GoodVibeTribe 6 років тому +178

    This is the best overview I have ever seen on compression! The real world examples from classic songs is fantastic. The graphics thrown in to make the point more clear is fantastic. The discussion on current plug in offerings is fantastic. Rick thank you so much man! You have probably heard this before but you have a gift of communication as you break down complicated subjects. I am so happy (and lucky!) to know that you share openly. THANK YOU SO MUCH!

  • @christiankrueger221
    @christiankrueger221 6 років тому +258

    Rick, you are a treasured font of knowledge! We are very blessed and privileged to have you sharing on this platform.

    • @riloh58
      @riloh58 5 років тому +2

      I am continually stunned by Rick’s channel. The knowledge he shares, the information he has in his head...it’s just awesome. I can’t come here without learning heaps. Thank you a thousand times Rick. Always grateful for anything you wish to share.

    • @Malmsteen1990
      @Malmsteen1990 5 років тому +4

      Not only the font of knowledge. but the way he explains... best teacher ever.

    • @NICUofficial
      @NICUofficial Рік тому

      he makes these explanations seem so easy and obvious, probably what I love most about him :)

  • @jeredalmeida1880
    @jeredalmeida1880 3 роки тому +17

    This is the only cohesive explanation of compression I've ever heard. Thanks, Rick!

  • @StreetCars101TV
    @StreetCars101TV 4 місяці тому +1

    Even in audio engineering we did not get this detailed into compression. I love this

  • @NotthatRossKemp
    @NotthatRossKemp 6 років тому +488

    Best music channel on UA-cam.

    • @ChristianKorte
      @ChristianKorte 6 років тому +2

      Missclicked?

    • @63Baggies
      @63Baggies 6 років тому +2

      Ross Kemp .
      ....without doubt...very detailed and oddly accessible given the complexity of much of the information.

    • @chrisjordan9259
      @chrisjordan9259 6 років тому +5

      don't know about what might be best channel, but for me definitely one of the most informative channels regarding music production topics. Keep up the good work, Rick! and a BIG THANK YOU!!

    • @midnightbrewers5368
      @midnightbrewers5368 5 років тому +2

      What was it like being in the SAS?

    • @runreilly
      @runreilly 5 років тому +6

      Beato 2020

  • @BlokeOzzie
    @BlokeOzzie 3 роки тому +3

    This guy knows how to explain things in a way that finally makes sense to me.

  • @esphilee
    @esphilee 3 роки тому

    Yep.. 30 years in 30 minutes.
    The only video that properly explained compression that I have watched.

  • @stevegiddings6546
    @stevegiddings6546 2 роки тому +1

    This is so great. What a time to be alive and recording.

  • @thajayblaine
    @thajayblaine 4 роки тому +5

    I love how many artists hoping to come up all come together watching these type of videos, all of us in the comment section should start a music distribution company promoting each other

  • @improbableworld
    @improbableworld 3 роки тому +30

    Thank you -- no kidding, I took a college course in recording and it was nowhere near as potent as this. I especially appreciate the comparisons of waveforms (the way they look compressed and not compressed... I'm a visual learner) and citing well-known examples like Led Zeppelin.

  • @scottclark3139
    @scottclark3139 2 роки тому

    I could listen to you all day. If only my music teacher at school had this delivery….

  • @DelasVC
    @DelasVC Рік тому

    No doubt this is the best tutorial on compression by a long shot!

  • @nathanmantle377
    @nathanmantle377 4 роки тому +31

    I remember looking for something like this when i first started learning about compression, and found it ridiculous that nobody had explained things in such detail! Happy that up and coming musicians can learn this stuff from your videos.

    • @russellthegoat3894
      @russellthegoat3894 3 роки тому

      Facts. I love how he threw in the examples top to really drive the point home and show it in practice. Rick you rock

  • @timefilm
    @timefilm 4 роки тому +4

    You taught me more here in 9 minutes than I learned in 9 months of schooling

  • @bugamail
    @bugamail 10 місяців тому

    Every once in a while I come back to this video, what a gem!

  • @SirMalikCobra
    @SirMalikCobra 3 роки тому +18

    That Neve brings out the sparkle a bit more. The Glue pulls everything in tight with almost no color.

  • @JayInHisPrime
    @JayInHisPrime 6 років тому +187

    finally somebody i understand

  • @qarthmusic8196
    @qarthmusic8196 6 років тому +129

    Keep the production related videos coming Rick!! Amazing job!

  • @TheGreatConstantini
    @TheGreatConstantini 9 місяців тому

    This is a must have video. After all my years, finally an explanation that makes sense.

  • @Landodog1971
    @Landodog1971 2 роки тому

    When Rick is "presenting" (like he's on TV) he's definitely very cool. But then there are the moments when he's just so into what he's explaining, it's like he forgets there's a big audience, and it's as if he's simply talking to you, just you, about really specific recording techniques that you're totally interested in. That's when he's truly great. Part teenager going, "oh my god that song sounds amazing", part professor saying, "these are the compressor settings they used on the mix bus". Incredible!

  • @tyleranderson7089
    @tyleranderson7089 4 роки тому +8

    This video needs to be far more popular! I wish these videos were on the same channel as produce like a pro. Combination of easy to learn, straight-forward, non-time wasted, white board learning of music/production and then produce like a pro's interviews with the top mixing and mastering engineers in the world. Love these two channels.

  • @Tomkarshner
    @Tomkarshner 4 роки тому +3

    Rick, thank you . I’ve been playing with this equipment of mine for over 20 years and you are the only person I was able to understand what was happening.. I move compressor knobs until I get the sound I like but never understanding why. Thank you again. Just to show your never too old to rock and roll I’m 73 and still learning

  • @josephtabar492
    @josephtabar492 Рік тому +1

    Thank you Rick Beato. I am a disabled 🎸 player who records at home in Osgood Indiana on a Boss BR - 8 recording studio. I used to left-handed Mexican Fender Stratocaster and a few effects pedals of which the Wa wa pedal is my favorite.
    I couldn't afford to go to a special school to learn the art of this craft. As much as I like it and believe in it, being on Social Security and disabled many things are out of my price range. So it is with deep gratitude for your time in this session they cost me absolutely nothing except for the time it takes to listen and pay attention. I have recorded these programs so that I can go back and refer to them as often as I need to. Thank you very much Rick Beato. You have even helped the lowest of musicians, so you are greatly appreciated. May God bless you and your family for the great work that you do.

  • @sebml9846
    @sebml9846 2 роки тому

    bro, your a god at this point, youve taught me in 5 minutes in more than any lesson or playing about with the compressor has in 3 years

  • @kevinlabbe8391
    @kevinlabbe8391 3 роки тому +6

    The Glue Sounded amazing every time, when activated during the bass and during the vocals. I mean like wow! What a difference!

  • @dangreenwood
    @dangreenwood 4 роки тому +3

    The most articulate discussion/lesson on compression I’ve seen. Thank you Rick.

  • @michaelrice257
    @michaelrice257 3 роки тому +2

    For about a minute i was like Anthony Bourdain is alive and making compression videos. Great video BTW

  • @hammerofgodminiatures
    @hammerofgodminiatures Місяць тому

    Best compressor video on UA-cam by far.

  • @lightfireradioproductions
    @lightfireradioproductions 4 роки тому +11

    So helpful - you're a great teacher. I'm a long-time musician getting into recording and you anticipate all my questions as they pop up. Really good pace and clarity - thank you!

  • @russellthegoat3894
    @russellthegoat3894 3 роки тому +4

    This is the first thing that’s ever helped me understand compression. Thanks Rick. Will be watching any further production tips you post.

  • @CapeFearLuthiery
    @CapeFearLuthiery 3 роки тому

    This guy makes the best videos if you're learning to mix

  • @agork
    @agork 4 роки тому +7

    That was one insane amount of information. Could have been stretched out on a whole semester. Very grateful for this RB 🙏🏻 ❤️

  • @paulward9936
    @paulward9936 Рік тому +6

    Can’t imagine this is the first time this has been said on Rick’s comments sections.. but this legend has forgotten more about music theory, music production and likely about life than I will probably ever know.

  • @meniscus1
    @meniscus1 6 років тому +4

    This is an incredibly useful video. Thanks for taking the time, and offering this wealth of knowledge to those of us that are interested in a better understanding of how these can be applied. Grateful! Cheers!!

  • @Seh1r
    @Seh1r 3 роки тому +2

    Came back to this video after two years of "making music" and I finally understand it. Well, what I mean is I understand part of it.
    That part is, "Leave compression to the Pros. ;-)

  • @NICUofficial
    @NICUofficial Рік тому +7

    literally 100% gold-plated raw studio knowledge on compression & production
    it is hard to sum in words how stupid-lucky I feel to have this video available to learn from for free. LOL, this is just ridiculous tbh
    thanks rick, just another fanboy here. you're helping make NICU's musical path come alive every day and I humbly thank you for it

  • @lorenzowynberg
    @lorenzowynberg 6 років тому +29

    Thanks so much, this is the best compression video I've been able to watch yet. Amazing! Keep up the great content and thanks again!

    • @ChristianKorte
      @ChristianKorte 6 років тому

      Hopefully you`re able to watch some that show how it is really used.

  • @bboydreaded
    @bboydreaded 6 років тому +80

    Yo. UA-cam was on auto play. I was watching thug life and fell asleep in front of the tv. I woke up and your vid was on. I understand comprehension so much better now. I have watch a few (heaps) of vids on the subject but yours is the best. I have watched this 3 times and have taken notes. Thank you. Me finding this vid was meant to be. So glad I didn’t sleep through the whole thing. Lol. Keep up the good work.

    • @ksrhys-
      @ksrhys- 4 роки тому +8

      Comprehension 😁

  • @patsquanch
    @patsquanch 3 роки тому

    little nugget of gold for those of use just starting to get into engineering, Rick. I appreciate everything you do for the fans out there!!! One of the best in the biz without a doubt.

  • @buonanni6202
    @buonanni6202 4 роки тому

    This is absolutely unbelievable content. The real life examples and the way you break everything down helped clarify so much for me. Thank you.

  • @Kelvinapplegate
    @Kelvinapplegate 4 роки тому +3

    Man thanks a bunch! This is the first time I could actually really really hear the difference between before and after tracks most videos I watch my ear has not grown enough to notice.

  • @zapantalambda
    @zapantalambda 4 роки тому +3

    been to an audio crash course earlier this week and this video of Mr Beato reinforced my knowledge on the subject of music production in general. Thank you sir!

  • @sayman2000
    @sayman2000 4 роки тому

    This will certainly be one of my go-to videos, whenever I feel like I need a refresh, when dealing with compression. Thanks for all the tips!

  • @spareparts0415
    @spareparts0415 4 роки тому +2

    Bravo to you Rick for sharing information with others in a wonderful enlightening way. You timelessly prove that you have forgotten more then many will ever know yet you are so humble in your delivery. A true mentor i salute you!

  • @photojournalists
    @photojournalists 4 роки тому +11

    I've watched a lot of mixing videos and I've also watched a lot of Rick's video (what makes this song great, etc.) But from education perspective, this video is GOLD!

  • @chrisfeatherstone9691
    @chrisfeatherstone9691 4 роки тому +4

    This was absolutely the best explanation of the use of compressors and which ones are best suited for what situation!

  • @seanberton3110
    @seanberton3110 Рік тому

    Thank you sooo much for this comprehensive compression compilation! Please keep posting recording tips and explanations. Your style is perfect for practical understanding.

  • @claytonmurrayguitar
    @claytonmurrayguitar 4 роки тому +2

    Watching this while mixing and applying some of these tips to it and wow, this is great. Just got the Waves CLA-2A last night and it sounds fantastic on bass. Thanks for this video!

  • @Just_Jorilla
    @Just_Jorilla 4 роки тому +4

    Loved how the Glue did just that, tightened everything up. Also, the Neve, and how it pushed everything through, giving it more Punch.
    Great tutorial By the way. Thank You!!!

  • @sttyves
    @sttyves 4 роки тому +11

    this lesson will become a classic thanks so much for this precious info

  • @JamesKight
    @JamesKight 3 роки тому +2

    Easily the most I've learned from this channel by far. Fascinating.

  • @pathogenocide01
    @pathogenocide01 3 роки тому

    been doing this for years and this is probably the best video I've seen on breaking down compression so far!

  • @TroyShaw
    @TroyShaw 4 роки тому +12

    Wow, this is the best explanation of how compressors work that I've ever seen. I had an idea of how they work but you really dig in. Awesome.

  • @strstudio8625
    @strstudio8625 4 роки тому +3

    the neve comp was really nice. going to get that one now by UA overlooked that one for too long. great video thanks for sharing will give your video to my interns for learning

  • @brushman20
    @brushman20 3 роки тому +1

    I watched this video many months ago before I knew anything about compression at all. Have picked up some knowledge along the way and came back to this. It’s like a whole new video. Learned a ton and was actually familiar with a lot of the language used here, unlike last time. Super useful video!

  • @thomashardey9247
    @thomashardey9247 3 роки тому

    Great overview, Rick. I've learned a lot about compression. But, it never hurts to hear someone else's take on a subject. The listing of what makes of compressors to apply in given situations or on instruments is truly helpful. Great stuff as always.

  • @OUTSS1
    @OUTSS1 6 років тому +23

    also yes.. Multiband compression saves lives

    • @zapantalambda
      @zapantalambda 4 роки тому

      quick question. is a multi-band Eq guitar pedal necessary in recording or not really?

  • @junkaction2416
    @junkaction2416 5 років тому +244

    Attack is the length of time it takes a compressor to apply roughly two-thirds of the targeted amount of gain reduction.
    I say ‘roughly two-thirds’ because there is no agreed-upon, industry-accepted standard for what this spec actually is. Yes, you read that right: no two compressor designers will agree on exactly how to define, and therefore measure, attack. My definition above is within the ballpark of most thinking, so I’m running with it.
    To understand this definition of attack better, you need to get some basics of compression established first. Let’s say your compressor is set with a threshold of -10dB and a ratio of 3:1. If you feed this compressor a signal at -11dB, nothing happens because the signal is lower than the -10dB threshold.
    But if that signal jumps to -1dB things get interesting. Most notably, the instant the signal reaches -10dB the compressor begins attacking it. There is no delay whatsoever in this response, which belies the myth that attack is the time it takes a compressor to respond once a signal crosses the threshold.
    With a -1dB signal and a -10dB threshold, the signal is 9dB over the threshold. Our 3:1 ratio means that for every 3dB coming in over threshold, the comp wants to allow 1dB out the backside. Since our example has a signal 9dB over the threshold, our hypothetical 3:1 comp wants to compress those incoming 9dB into 3dB at the output, which would require 6dB of gain reduction.
    Given that attack is the time it takes a compressor to apply roughly 2/3 of the targeted gain reduction, the attack in this case indicates how fast the comp will apply the first 4dB of the target 6dB of reduction.
    If you don’t follow the math of this illustration, don’t worry. For now it’s enough to know that the compressor starts applying gain reduction as soon as the signal crosses the threshold. Which means that attack is not a delay before action, nor is it even a measurement of time per se; instead, it is a rate, a measurement of the speed at which the process of gain reduction is occurring.
    Release is the time it takes a compressor to restore two-thirds of the reduced gain to the compressed signal.
    ‘Restoring reduced gain’ is a very carefully chosen set of words.
    I characterised release in those terms because it’s useful to think of compression as a two-way street.
    When a compressor attacks, it is applying gain reduction - it is lowering the signal level.
    But gain reduction is only half the picture, because for every dB of gain a compressor takes away, at some point it has to put it back. And that process - let’s call it ‘gain restoration’ - is the business of release. The faster your release, the faster the compressor restores the gain it took away when attacking.
    So what do we know now, at least in a purely academic way?
    Attack is the length of time it takes a compressor to apply roughly two-thirds of the targeted gain reduction.
    Release is the length of time it takes a compressor to restore roughly two-thirds of that reduced gain.
    This gives us a good grounding to tackle more compression myths.
    If you’ve been paying attention, it should already be obvious why this statement is false.
    The explanation lies in the fact that aside from generating ancillary effects like distortion and colouration from transformers and tubes, attacking and releasing a signal are the only two things a compressor can do.
    Put a little differently: any time the gain reduction meter on a compressor is moving, it is either attacking or releasing the signal.
    Fascinating! Taking it a step further:
    Any time the gain reduction meter is increasing (i.e., the comp is reducing the gain of the signal), the compressor is attacking.
    Any time the gain reduction meter is decreasing (i.e., the comp is restoring the gain of the signal), the compressor is releasing.
    So while the well-intentioned myth-spreaders out there would have you believe that attack and release are only relevant when a signal crosses the threshold - attack on the way up and release on the way down - what I am telling you is that nothing could be further from the truth. Instead, once a signal is over the threshold, both attack and release are constantly at play.
    G.S.

    • @mistermind7946
      @mistermind7946 5 років тому +29

      That was effin' awesome to read. "There's no delay in that response whatsoever"
      That's the key. Most people think the attack time is how long the comp waits before doing it's thing. But i observed visually on GR meters that the pin itself moves faster or slower when you set the attack/release times to your taste.
      Absolutely vital point. You rock.

    • @michi9955
      @michi9955 5 років тому +11

      Thanks. Makes sense when you think about analog comps who cant measure time discretly but instead control the speed of attack/release with variable resistors.

    • @distorson
      @distorson 5 років тому +15

      Very well explained! Thanks a lot for the effort you put into this fairly long youtube comment.

    • @agentcalm
      @agentcalm 5 років тому +6

      Phew....Im lost. I'll need to read this a few times to try get this. I did indeed always assume a fast attack simply meant how quickly the comp attacked the signal "once it crossed the threshold. I'd always imagined it like a security dog and a line in the sand. Security are well aware you're trespassing and crossed the line. But they might give a head start or attack you immediately. Depending on the attack settings.

    • @stanspb763
      @stanspb763 5 років тому +15

      Very nice explanation of a concept that is so fundamental to recording and live sound but so little understood. I had all the classic compressors of the day in my 3 studio complex and each had its own transfer functions that had to be learned by experience. But in those days a top album studio had no beginners in them or jacks of all trades, it was a real team effort in each studio so by the time a promising Second got a solo as first they had been working daily for several years with top producers and engineers. A lot of that knowledge has been lost or distorted by the home recording social media mythology and beginners teaching other beginners. I am not even in recording anymore, after the death of the record industry in the 90s, all the great independent album studios closed due to lower numbers of major label releases and the drastic cut in what the labels would pay after all the labels were purchased by international corporations.
      I started as an EE designing equipment but moved into recording by accident in the early 70s and continued into the early 90s when everything in radio, touring and recording collapsed with the new label policies. It is interesting that the gear we built or used as everyday hardware is still revered 50 years later. About the only hardware not sought are the plate reverbs, we had 6, plus live echo chamber tied into each control room patch bay. They are too big for most computer-based studios now I suppose.

  • @pc2908
    @pc2908 Рік тому

    Fantastic breakdown of what compression can serve as, and how it can help or hurt your mix/mastering. Rick, as always…you’re THE man!

  • @ianmclean5541
    @ianmclean5541 4 роки тому +1

    Rick, your teaching style is amazing. I took a ton of notes on this video and your EQ video. You have a gold mine of decades of experience in audio engineering. I welcome any other videos on the subject of recording/mixing and would happily pay for them. There is no substitute for the job savvy gained from your years in the business. The way you explain concepts is a highly valuable asset that many of us aspiring amateur and professional engineers can benefit from.

  • @bensokol-composer1859
    @bensokol-composer1859 4 роки тому +3

    Hands down the best video on knowing how to use compression!

    • @hartgeld78
      @hartgeld78 4 роки тому +1

      mixbustv has an awesome series on compression! You should definitely check it out if you didn't already.

  • @SheaRecordmetal
    @SheaRecordmetal 4 роки тому +6

    You are the man. Love the examples like led zeppelin, or the beatles. You give us an idea of sound not just numbers.

  • @edclark5682
    @edclark5682 2 роки тому

    The Slate Mix Bus compressor sounds fantastic! My favorite by far, it really separated the left and right channels and sort of opened up the track spatially! Love this video I've watched it multiple times and learn something new every time! Like a great Yes album you always hear something new each time you listen! Love the channel! Adios

  • @23thkr
    @23thkr 4 роки тому +1

    A great explanation on how the compressor work. Knowing how it actually works will make you more confident when using one

  • @weaesq
    @weaesq 4 роки тому +3

    I used to have a general understanding of compressors - to reduce the dynamic range. But with all the different types of compressors and variations for the differing instruments, that takes experience that I will likely will never get. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.

  • @xxxxxxxtra
    @xxxxxxxtra 6 років тому +46

    Love the Neve at the end.

  • @thegeniusofdavidbowie4104
    @thegeniusofdavidbowie4104 3 роки тому

    Really useful. Finally I start to get a grip on what compression is, how it works and how to use it beyond the very basic. Great practical examples.

  • @brennenmoloney4736
    @brennenmoloney4736 4 роки тому +1

    I've been diving into production lately and I've been wondering what attack, transients, ratios, etc. mean in regards to compression and music production as a whole. I've been in and out of studios as a musician for years too. It's so nice to finally understand this stuff. This is gold.

  • @FranciscoBIdo
    @FranciscoBIdo 6 років тому +9

    Totally awesome. Love compressors.

  • @tazz58penticalzone43
    @tazz58penticalzone43 4 роки тому +4

    This cleared up a lot of questions that I still had not got a clue on.

  • @tpirm2142
    @tpirm2142 4 роки тому

    Great teacher... Thanks Rick! You deserve all the followers you have and many many more. Easy to follow and very informative. Not to fast and not to slow, and loads of valuable knowledge in only a 30 minute video.

  • @markpulsar4831
    @markpulsar4831 6 місяців тому

    you are the best there is Mr. Beato. So generous. it had my mix going from zero to hero in no time.

  • @xyzyzx1253
    @xyzyzx1253 3 роки тому +3

    Rick beato is literally a sage. Awesome stuff I’d love to see a whole series on various different professional uses for all the various standard mixing plug ins / essentials! That would be awesome, thanks again rick! You’ve been with me from my first key signature and chord construction, to producing and mixing in my own home studio on three instruments, and it’s literally all thanks to going over your material, and Adams Neely and few others,
    If it weren’t for you guys, I’d never be able to express myself musically like I can now! So thank you all so much
    Also, since I’ve been getting into this whole production thing,
    Could you be my sage for that as well, that would be wildly convenient lol 😁

  • @gorgino9700
    @gorgino9700 3 роки тому +6

    If I get to meet you one day, I’ll pay your dinner. This video is the greatest

  • @Dougjohnson1966
    @Dougjohnson1966 3 роки тому

    Phenomenal tutorial! Kudos!!! This is the first time I actually understood how to utilize compression! Thanks for making it clear!

  • @Stratking01
    @Stratking01 3 роки тому +1

    Man, this is great. Probably the best explanation of compression in mixing I’ve ever heard

  • @BrandonofRedemption
    @BrandonofRedemption 6 років тому +6

    Fantastic information! Thanks again Rick!

  • @paulvanzyl6869
    @paulvanzyl6869 4 роки тому +3

    having learnt about compression 20 years ago, and worked with it for years, there's still so much in here that pure gold. Loving all the masterclasses rick, both on production and music.

  • @edhardiman835
    @edhardiman835 3 роки тому +1

    I would really like to disagree with you but I never get a crack at you because you’re spot on every time...!

  • @wardenist
    @wardenist 4 роки тому

    Hi Rick, I have been mixing for 25 years now and your vid on compression is just so cool. Thank you.

  • @allIhaveISMusic1
    @allIhaveISMusic1 4 роки тому +12

    Hi Rick, love the way you speak, explain everything ! One crazy question if I may, I see in the studio you have some really nice wood finish in there . Would you mind telling me a bit about it, is there dampening under it, if not how is it build to work for your studio acoustics? I am currently about to rebuild a studio and from al I ve seen ( a lot trust me) I always like the wood in a studio but not too much as it makes the sound bright. So I think a compbination of wooden stripes with sponge or so underneath it, should be ok. Is that it? Thank you !

  • @zacpiya
    @zacpiya 3 роки тому +16

    I mis-read this as "Pro Secrets of *Compassion." I clicked immediately.

  • @jaysoto7439
    @jaysoto7439 4 роки тому

    Best clear-cut, informative video on compression I've ever seen.

  • @Oscar-Racso
    @Oscar-Racso 7 місяців тому

    Best compression video on the Internet!!!

  • @BrunoWiebelt
    @BrunoWiebelt 5 років тому +3

    thank you for this one ... learned a lot and your deep experience

  • @ActionlessLoveless
    @ActionlessLoveless 3 роки тому +5

    in the dance track demo i liked the most how Neve sounded

  • @MrKennmax
    @MrKennmax 3 роки тому

    I know you made this video some time ago, but it's one of the best explanations of compression out there! Thank you !!