a peek inside a compressor

A compressor can be a drummer’s single most valuable signal-processing component in any amplified performance or recording situation. Essentially an automated volume control, a compressor attenuates an audio signal when it rises above a predetermined level. For drummers, this means that the difference between your loudest and softest kick, snare, tom, or cymbal hits can be slightly or dramatically reduced, thus producing a more consistent, controllable, and – especially for drums – “meatier” sound.
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