As the name implies, compression reduces the dynamic range of a signal. It is used extensively in audio recording, production work, noise reduction, and live performance applications, but it does need to be used with care. It's commonly said that compressors make loud sounds quieter, and the quiet sounds louder, but this is actually only half correct, as we shall see.
| Ü Dynamic range reduction achieved without distortion when operated correctly |
| Ü Decreases overall dynamic range |
| Ü Can be thought of as an automatic fader |
A compressor can control the level of an audio signal very much faster and more predictably than is possible by manual methods, such as changing the position of a fader or potentiometer. Because of their general utility in the production of high-quality audio recordings they are installed in many high-end consoles as in-line devices in the signal path of the individual channel strip (such as in the Yamaha 02-R - which has 40+ dynamics processors). They are common as separate "out-board" pieces of studio equipment. Today we are getting used to seeing them as functions in software for Digital Audio Workstations such as Sonar and ProTools.
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