Compression

[Emma Boyd]

I've been playing about with compression levels on the DP 008 EX in an attempt to find the sweet spot. Any advice on settings for rocky vocals (threshold, ratio, attack, release)? It's difficult to find a combination that stops peaking/clipping but that doesn't distort the more powerful notes in itself. Also, what exactly is meant by 'level' in the settings?

 

[Mark Richards]

Basic info is in your OM on page 82. Those are good starting points.

There's no such thing as "one size fits all" or "best". It's an art learned through experience, trial, and error.

The settings you use are completely dependant on why you're applying this production tool.

"A little" is almost always better than "a lot".

Look at each of the compression posts in the DP-24/32/SD forum for more comprehensive information. Index here:
https://www.tascamforums.com/threads/dp-24-32-sd-production-tips.5747/

"Level" = "Gain" = "Loudness"

Many of the online pro stores like Sweetwater have tutorials and videos that are pretty good at explaining the basics.

 

[Emma Boyd]

Thanks very much for the signposting and advice, Mark. That gives me a great starting point.