Compression and limiting are identical in process but different in degree and perceived effect. In recorded and live music, compression parameters may be adjusted to change the way they affect sounds. In the 2000s, compressors became available as software plugins that run in digital audio workstation software.
Compression is commonly used in sound recording and reproduction, broadcasting, live sound reinforcement and in some instrument amplifiers.Ī dedicated electronic hardware unit or audio software that applies compression is called a compressor. From top to bottom: Retro Instruments/Gates STA level Spectra Sonic 610 Dbx 162 Dbx 165 Empirical Labs Distressor Smart Research C2 Chandler Limited TG1 Daking FET (91579) and Altec 436c.ĭynamic range compression ( DRC) or simply compression is an audio signal processing operation that reduces the volume of loud sounds or amplifies quiet sounds, thus reducing or compressing an audio signal's dynamic range. A rack of audio compressors in a recording studio.
