Parallel compression is the technique of blending an uncompressed signal with a heavily compressed version of the same signal. This technique is used to control the dynamic range of a track while maintaining its original character and punch.
Parallel compression, also known as New York compression, is a technique used in audio mixing where a signal is split into two identical tracks, with one track being heavily compressed and the other remaining unaffected. The compressed signal is then blended with the original signal to create a more balanced, dynamic mix.
This technique is particularly useful in music production for achieving a full, dense sound while maintaining the clarity and punch of individual tracks. We will dive deeper into what parallel compression is, how it’s used, and some tips on how to apply it effectively.
Credit: producelikeapro.com
The Basics Of Parallel Compression
Parallel compression is a mixing technique used to bring together the best of both worlds- the dynamics of uncompressed audio and the power of compressed audio. It’s a simple yet effective way to add depth and punch to your mixes. But before we dive into how to use it, let’s first understand the basics of parallel compression.
Isolating And Duplicating The Audio Track
The first step in implementing parallel compression is to isolate the audio track you want to process and duplicate it. To do this, create a copy of the original track and place it on a separate channel. This duplicated track will be used for compression while the original track remains uncompressed.
Applying Compression To The Duplicated Track
Now that you have a copy of the original track, it’s time to add compression. Apply the desired amount of compression to the duplicated track. One useful tip is to use a higher compression ratio than you normally would use on a regular track. This way, you can create a significant difference between the compressed and uncompressed signals.
Blending The Original And Duplicated Tracks
After applying compression to the duplicated track, it’s time to blend the two tracks to create the final mix. This is achieved by adjusting the levels of both tracks until you find the perfect balance. You can use the ‘mix’ control of your compressor to blend the compressed and uncompressed tracks. Alternatively, you can use faders or a DAW’s mixer to adjust the levels of each track.
Parallel compression might seem like a complex technique, but it’s easy to implement and can significantly improve your mixes. Try it out and see the difference it can make.
Common Applications Of Parallel Compression
Parallel compression is a technique where a duplicated or parallel audio signal is compressed and mixed with the original uncompressed signal to achieve a desired dynamic range. Common applications include enhancing drum tracks, vocals, and guitar sounds to give them more presence and punch in the mix.
Parallel compression, also known as New York compression, is a popular technique used by audio engineers to add depth and definition to tracks. This technique involves blending an unprocessed signal with a heavily compressed version of the same signal, resulting in a fuller and more impactful sound. It is commonly used on drums, vocals, bass, guitar, and other instruments. Here are some common applications of parallel compression on different types of instruments:
Drums
Drums are the backbone of any music production, and parallel compression can be used to add more punch and attack to the sound. A popular technique is to blend a heavily compressed snare or kick drum with the dry signal, resulting in a bigger and more defined drum sound. Here are some tips for using parallel compression on drums:
- Start with a ratio of 4:1 to 8:1
- Use a fast attack and release time
- Blend the compressed signal with the dry signal to taste
- Use EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies
Vocals
Parallel compression can breathe new life into dull or lifeless vocals, adding warmth and depth to the sound. The key is to compress the vocal in a way that brings out the nuances in the performance without flattening the dynamics. Here are some tips for using parallel compression on vocals:
- Start with a ratio of 3:1 to 5:1
- Use a slower attack and release time to preserve the transients
- Blend the compressed signal with the dry signal to taste
- Use EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies
Bass
Parallel compression can be used on bass to add more sustain and presence to the sound. By blending a heavily compressed signal with the dry signal, you can achieve a more even and consistent volume across the notes. Here are some tips for using parallel compression on bass:
- Start with a ratio of 4:1 to 6:1
- Use a fast attack and release time to bring out the sustain
- Blend the compressed signal with the dry signal to taste
- Use EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies and boost the desired frequencies
Guitar And Other Instruments
Parallel compression can be used on any instrument that needs more definition and character. By blending a heavily compressed signal with the dry signal, you can achieve a fuller and more impactful sound. Here are some tips for using parallel compression on guitar and other instruments:
- Start with a ratio of 4:1 to 6:1
- Use a fast attack and release time to add definition
- Blend the compressed signal with the dry signal to taste
- Use EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies and boost the desired frequencies
In conclusion, parallel compression can be a powerful tool in the hands of an experienced audio engineer. By blending a heavily compressed signal with the dry signal, you can achieve a bigger, fuller, and more impactful sound on drums, vocals, bass, guitar, and other instruments. Experiment with different settings and techniques to find what works best for your tracks.
Setting Up Parallel Compression
Parallel compression is a mixing technique that helps improve the dynamics of a sound. It works by blending a heavily compressed signal with an uncompressed one, creating more sustain and fullness. By setting up parallel compression, you can add more body and depth to your mixes without sacrificing the natural dynamics of the sound.
One way to add depth and character to your mixes is by using parallel compression. By compressing a copy of your audio signal and blending it with the original, you can bring out details and add warmth without sacrificing dynamics. But how do you set up parallel compression? Let’s walk through the process step by step.
Choosing The Right Compressor Settings
When selecting a compressor for parallel compression, you’ll want to choose one with a fast attack and release time to fully capture the transients in your audio. A ratio of 4:1 or higher is often used, and a lower threshold is preferred to catch more of the audio. Adjust the makeup gain to match the volume of the uncompressed signal.
Setting The Blend And Balance Of The Tracks
To set the blend of the compressed and uncompressed tracks, start by sending them both to a bus. From there, adjust the fader of the uncompressed track until the desired level is achieved. Then, slowly increase the fader of the compressed track until you can hear its effect. Adjust the balance knob or wet/dry mix until you achieve the desired amount of parallel compression.
Adjusting For Phase Issues
Sometimes, parallel compression can cause phase issues, especially when using a stereo compressor. To avoid this, use matched settings on both channels and pay attention to the phase correlation meter. If you notice any phase issues, flip the phase on one of the channels to correct it. Alternatively, try using a multiband compressor or plugins like Waves S1 imager to isolate problematic frequencies. Parallel compression is a powerful technique that can add a lot to your mixes. By choosing the right compressor settings, setting the blend and balance of the tracks, and adjusting for phase issues, you can achieve a full, rich sound that retains all the dynamics of the original audio. Experiment with different settings and listen carefully to find the sweet spot for your mix.
Credit: www.soundonsound.com
Tips And Tricks For Parallel Compression
Parallel compression is a technique used to add more depth and dimension to audio tracks. By duplicating the original track and applying different levels of compression to each, a full and dynamic sound is achieved. Tips for parallel compression include experimenting with different compression ratios and adjusting the mix until desired results are achieved.
Parallel Compression is a technique that audio engineers have been using for years to create dynamic sound that is both clean and punchy. This method involves blending an unprocessed signal with a compressed signal of the same sound, producing an effect that is suitable for various types of music tracks. When it comes to achieving the right sound, there are a few tips and tricks for parallel compression that you should keep in mind. In this blog post, we will explain some of these tips and tricks to elevate your audio engineering skills to the next level. Experiment with Different Blending Settings Blending settings play an important role in parallel compression. You may want to experiment with different blending settings before settling on one that you like the most. You should also consider using various compressors with different settings. It will allow you to find the perfect combination that delivers the desired sound. Once you have found the right blend, try adjusting the blend control, which allows you to switch between parallel and series processing, and fine-tune the amount of parallel compression that suits your liking. Use EQ to Further Shape the Sound Equalization is an essential tool in audio engineering for shaping sounds and removing unwanted signals. It is equally important when it comes to parallel compression. You can use EQ plugins to shape sounds and remove unwanted parts, before or after parallel compression. When done correctly, EQ can help enhance the dynamics and punch of the sound. You should make an effort to experiment with the EQ settings, trying out various frequencies, and see how they affect the sound quality. You can use some of the preset EQ settings from your EQ plugin to save time and effort. Avoid Over-Compression When applying parallel compression, it is important to avoid over-compression. Over-compression can ruin the sound quality and result in a flat, unexciting sound. Make sure that the compressed signal is not too loud or dominating. Keep its volume in check, ensuring that it stays at a level that doesn’t impede the unprocessed signal. In doing so, the sound is not too cluttered or over-compressed, resulting in a more natural and dynamic sound. In conclusion, applying parallel compression requires some experimentation and finesse, but it can elevate your audio engineering game to new heights. By employing the tips above, you can confidently approach parallel compression and create exciting sounds with a dynamic punch. Remember, parallel compression is one of the most effective ways to add more depth, excitement, and dimension to your tracks. So, go ahead and experiment with these tips and tricks and see how your sound quality improves with each track you create.
Examples Of Parallel Compression In Action
Parallel compression is a common mixing technique that involves blending a compressed copy of a track with the original uncompressed version. It allows for more control over dynamically inconsistent sources. Examples of parallel compression include using it on drums to add more punch and depth, on vocals to even out levels and add sustain, and on bass to make it sound fuller and rich.
Parallel compression is a crucial mixing technique that helps you add depth and warmth to your tracks. It involves duplicating your audio track and compressing the duplicate while keeping the original track uncompressed. This technique gives you a more balanced and polished sound. Here are some examples of parallel compression in action:
Before And After Examples
One of the best ways to understand parallel compression is to hear it for yourself. So, let’s take a look at some before and after examples:
| Track | Original | Parallel Compressed |
|---|---|---|
| Bass Guitar | Click to hear | Click to hear |
| Lead Vocals | Click to hear | Click to hear |
| Drums | Click to hear | Click to hear |
As you can hear, the parallel compressed tracks have a fuller and more resonant tone than the original tracks. It adds clarity to the mix while keeping the dynamics intact.
Mixing Techniques For Different Genres
Parallel compression is a versatile technique that can be used in different genres of music. Here are some mixing techniques for different genres:
- Rock: Use parallel compression on the drums to give them more weight and impact.
- Hip-Hop: Use parallel compression on the vocals to make them more prominent in the mix.
- Electronic: Use parallel compression on the bass to add more depth and warmth to the track.
In conclusion, parallel compression is a powerful mixing technique that can take your tracks to the next level. By using it on the right tracks and in the right way, you can add depth and warmth to your mix while keeping the dynamics intact.
Credit: www.reddit.com
Frequently Asked Questions Of Parallel Compression Explaned
Why Would You Use Parallel Compression?
Parallel compression is used to add depth and fullness to audio tracks. It involves mixing a compressed version of the track with the original, uncompressed version. This allows for more dynamic range while still maintaining a consistent and balanced sound.
What Is The Difference Between Upward Compression And Parallel Compression?
Upward compression increases the volume of quiet sounds. Parallel compression, on the other hand, involves blending the original audio signal with a compressed version. This method preserves the dynamics while adding some oomph.
How Much Gain Reduction For Parallel Compression?
A typical gain reduction for parallel compression ranges from 3 to 10dB.
What Are The Advantages Of Parallel Compressor?
Parallel compressor helps in achieving optimal energy efficiency, reduced power consumption and extended lifespan of equipment. It also provides backup units, improved performance, and better temperature control.
Conclusion
Parallel compression is a useful tool in the recording and mixing process that can add depth, power, and clarity to any sound. By blending the compressed and uncompressed signals, you can achieve a more balanced and polished mix. As with any tool, it’s important to experiment and find what works best for your specific needs.
Parallel compression may seem intimidating at first, but it’s worth incorporating into your workflow to take your mixes to the next level. So don’t be afraid to give it a try and see how it can enhance your sound.