Compression: controlling dynamics

A compressor lowers the loudest parts of a signal so the whole thing can sit louder and more consistent. Key controls:

• Threshold: above this level, compression kicks in.
• Ratio: how aggressively (4:1 means for every 4 dB over, only 1 dB gets out).
• Attack: how fast the compressor clamps down (faster = more controlled, less punch).
• Release: how fast it lets go (faster = more 'pumping', slower = smoother).
• Makeup gain: bring the now-controlled signal back up in volume.