Compressor and limiter

In simple terms, a compressor compresses the louder parts of an audio signal and boosts the quieter parts, resulting in a more consistent level of volume throughout a song.

A compressor works by analyzing the amplitude of an audio signal and then;

• automatically reducing the level when its loudness exceeds a certain threshold (CM.th) - this is also known as downwards compression

or - in the case of the Woovebox compressors;

• automatically boosting the level when its loudness drops below a certain threshold - this is also known as upwards compression

The how strong the volume is boosted when the loudness is below the threshold, is controlled by a compressor's ratio parameter (CM.rt).

The speed by which a compressor kicks in, is governed by its 'attack' (CM.at) setting. Similarly, the speed by which it stops compressing the signal when the audio drops below the threshold, is governed by the 'release' (CM.rl) setting.

Compressors can be used to add warmth, punch, and clarity to an individual Woovebox track. Overall, a compressor is a powerful tool in music production, enabling producers to make their sound more polished and professional.

A limiter can be thought of as a more aggressive compressor; you can achieve a limiter by using a high compression ratios (> 20:1) and short attacks.