Introduction to the S1 Compressor

Automatic Level Control

 Automatic level control (ALC) was the traditional name given to compression and whilst the term is seldom used nowadays it helps give a better definition and understanding in it's title as to what compression is. Quite simply put compression operates as an automatic volume control making quieter sounds louder and louder sounds quieter to create a more even balance. Now that we know, what it is, we can better understand how to use it.

 Now Studio One comes with a very nice compressor that also incorporates some excellent advanced features as well as covering the basics too. So without further ado lets take a look.

At first it can seem a little daunting to the uninitiated but becoming familiar with some of the names on the controls and their uses,  will make everything become second nature. So lets brake down some of the terms used.

• Ratio: How much compression is applied. For example, if the compression ratio is set for 4:1, the input level will have to cross the threshold by 4dB for the output volume level to increase by 1dB
• Threshold: How loud the volume has to be before compression is applied.
• Knee: Sets how the compressor reacts whenever the threshold has been crossed. For instance Hard knee settings will make the compressor grip the signal immediately whilst Soft knee will be slower to react.
• Input Gain: Allows you to raise the audio volume level going into the compressor.
• Gain: Or Output Gain allows you to control the volume level going out of the compressor.
• Attack: How quickly the compressor starts working
• Release: How soon after the volume dips below the threshold the compressor stops working.
• Mix: How much the sound of the compressor is compared to the original

 That, admittedly, is a lot to take in and absorb but if you can memorize these names and what they do you'll find you will be able to work any compressor as they share these common controls. 

 The S1 Compressor also has some other advanced features such as (Sidechain), but we'll take a look at those and the features listed above in the video below.