Do I need compression for live sound?
Do I need compression for live sound?
Live sound is largely correcting problems with subtractive EQ. Sure, it’s fun to roll off some of the top-end on your hall reverb, but don’t let that distract you from the things that actually need attention. Compression should be used sparingly. The lead vocals should be the center of your attention.
How can I make a compressed sound better?
Software used to create music files — different codecs such as AAC, WMA, MP3 — can provide varying acoustic results. For a given bit rate, AAC and WMA will generally sound better than MP3. And if you can find “lossless” files like FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), those are best of all.
How do you add compression to live vocals?
While listening to your entire mix (do not solo the vocal), pull down the threshold until the compressor starts compressing. Add makeup gain as needed so the vocal doesn’t drop in volume. Adjust the threshold, ratio, and makeup gain until you can hear every word of the performance clearly.
Does Youtube compress live stream audio?
This is because all video and video streaming sites compress the video and audio file when you upload it. This can reflect poorly, not only on your video, but also your music. To avoid this and keep the audio quality at its highest, use only WAV files in your video.
How can I make my live streaming sound better?
Solutions
- Mic choice/placement (headset vs. lapel)
- Invest in quality gear.
- Pay attention to acoustics and noise sources (HVAC noise, creaking floor, hard-sole shoes on a hard stage)
- Mix your broadcast audio separately — don’t use the main house output of the live sound console.
- Compress.
- Monitor the streaming feed.
Do singers use compressors live?
Studio vocals are commonly compressed, but in my observation live vocals have sounded more dynamic. During my band’s last gig at a small-ish venue, our more powerful vocalist seemed to blast the pants off off the audience during louder passages- for better or worse.
How much compression do you need for live vocals?
Inserting a small amount of compression can help tidy up some of the more extreme dynamics of the vocal performance. I typically don’t use compression ratios high than 3:1 or so for a vocal. I like to be able to control the levels with mostly with the input faders.
What happens if you use too much compression?
Too much compression can make your tracks distort. This distortion can sound cool on a rock mix, but most of the time you won’t want your mix to sound super compressed. To avoid over-compression but still keep your levels in check, automate the volume of your tracks.
What is a good compression ratio for vocals?
A good starting point for a rock vocal would be a 4:1 ratio with a medium-fast attack and a medium release. Then, set the threshold for around 4 to 6dB of gain reduction. Increase or decrease the attack time until you get the right level of forwardness for the mix.
What’s the best way to set up audio compression?
However, there are general tips to help you find a starting point when setting up an audio compressor. When applying compression, try these basic compressor settings as a starting point: Start by setting the ratio to the highest value or inf:1. Set the threshold level to 0 dB. Set the attack and release controls to the fastest settings.
When do you need to compress an audio track?
Audio engineers will tell you to use your ears and only compress a track when needed, which is great if you’re an experienced mixer but if you’re new to production you may be in the dark about when to compress. A great tip if you are a beginner is to try compression on everything.
How does a limiter work in audio compression?
Limiters, which are a type of compressor, use high ratios to ‘brickwall’ the sound. The threshold determines the level at which the compression effect will kick in. Once the signal level passes this level, the compressor will begin to apply the amount of compression set (determined by the ratio).
What does the release mean in audio compression?
The release refers to how long it takes for the compressor to revert to normal, or to an uncompressed state. Faster releases can create a pumping effect whilst slow release times are much smoother. This changes how the gain reduction behaves around the threshold level, but not all compressors have this.