Posted by Gary Hendrick on August 30, 2002 at 03:28:11:

I am working with setting up a small system. I have to make a decison about how to use a dual compressor. I have several choices: kick drum, snare, bass, vocal sub. I can only cover two of them with the compressor. I just can't deside which two are the most important. If you only had one dual compressor, how would you best use it? What do you think? Anyone!

Gary


Posted by Andy Peters on August 30, 2002 at 17:37:58:

Gary,

Lead vocal and bass.

---a


Posted by Chris Wood on August 30, 2002 at 14:10:49:

Always think when using a compressor: "Is this smoothing the sound, or am I killing the 'feel'?"

A compressor can easily make a part or even an entire mix sound bland and flat by simply removing expressive dynamics and deadening attacks, when poorly set-up. Always A/B, and listen for at least a few bars.

"That'll do" can never apply to compression.

Regards,
Chris Wood


Posted by D. Parker on August 30, 2002 at 03:49:46:

Only the operator of the system can make that call. Different musicians, instruments, sound systems, all call for different applications. Bass guitar for instance - if the bass player in the band has a constant volume, you probably don't need compression. If his levels are wacky when he plays different notes, or how he plays them, you may need a compressor.

Same with kick. Depends on the drum, the way it is played, and if the system can handle the dynamics. My best guess would be to compress the vocal submaster with one side, compress the kick with the other.

That may not be right for your system or your band.

David



Posted by Jim S on August 30, 2002 at 13:12:01:

Hi Gary,

I would tend to agree with D.Parker here, but my personal preference would be that if it is a mono system, use one side for a vocal subgroup, and the other for overall compression/ limiting of the PA.

Could save you re-cone fees in the future.

Yours truly,
Jim Schwenzer


Posted by Jeff Sanders on August 30, 2002 at 04:48:35:

In a small system I would use one side for the vocals and the other for bass and kick (mixed in a submaster buss).


Posted by Gary Miller on August 30, 2002 at 15:27:23:

I too have a small system setup, with only one dual channel compressor in my F.O.H. rack. I comp the bass D.I. and vocal subgroup, with much success!

- G. Miller


Posted by Jim Brooks on August 30, 2002 at 14:34:33:

To me a comp is a repair tool. Use where it's needed.

What do you have the most dynamic problem with?

Don't forget when you put a comp on a group, it responds to whatever is the loudest in that sub group. If it's on a vocal group, that could mean that the background vocals could go up and down in volume by themselves, because it's reacting to the lead vocal.

Jim Brooks


Posted by Greg Girardin on August 30, 2002 at 16:32:08:

I actually have the same issue with a very small system for a trio, and I have four compressors. I'm still trying to figure out if and where to put them.

In my case, the drummer is a very consistent hitter, so I really don't need to compress the kick and snare .. although I do. I also currently compress my vocal channel and acoustic guitar.

I'm going to experiment with slight compression on the main mix. I don't need it as a limiting protection scheme, since I have plenty of headroom in my system at the volume I run it at, but I like the idea of slightly evening out the whole mix. I have a preference for a better 'produced' sound than a raw mix.

In my case, compression is sort of an answer in search of a question, but I enjoy tinkering.

-greg



Posted by Alan Wheeler on September 01, 2002 at 04:59:35:

Hi Gary,

You have had some varied responses.

First rule, NEVER place the comp across the overall program. A close second is a subgroup, as it will ride with the loudest peaks, and cause whatever below it to pump. That’s not saying you shouldn't in that case, but just be aware of what the program content of that subgroup contains.

As stated, bass and kick are good choices especially if you have a small system. These two eat up the greatest amount of power, and can help keep the sound tight and clean, when struggling with dynamic range.

Second rule, you don't have to use a compressor. I have seen more damage done with them than not having one at all. Most of the time I see this happen with studio guys. They bring in a boatload, and shove them across everything. Getting the "sound" in studio is totally different than the sound you want live.

Wheels



Posted by John chiara on September 01, 2002 at 06:19:21:

I always run a comp on L+R. It can really help glue things together, especially in a club, where you are balancing to stage volume, and the FOH needs to "float" a little. I use an RNC, usually into a Dominator - works great. YMMV.

: Getting the "sound" in studio is totally different than the sound you want live.

I do both, and I have found that skills translate back and forth very well. Both seem to improve for me.

I agree that compressors are either the most abused or unused rack gear I see, although it amazes me how many engineers don't use most of the tools they have.

I can only believe that is because they don't know how, because the mixes are far from even acceptable.

John