Control

Description

Smart release

The Smart Release slider allows you to configure the compressor to automatically increase the

 

release time for sustained notes and decrease the release time for sharp transients. Setting this

 

value higher increases the internal variability of the specified Release value.

 

Generally, louder overall audio levels can be achieved with lower Release values. However, low

 

Release values can also lead to an increase in “pumping” artifacts. Configuring a Smart Release

 

value increases the release time during sustained sounds, thereby preventing release changes

 

from occurring too rapidly.

 

 

Scan mode

The Scan mode radio buttons allow you to specify whether Peak or RMS mode is used to

 

determine the loudness of an audio file, which in turn determines the amount of compression

 

that is applied.

 

When compressing in Peak mode, the compressor applies compression where it detects audio

 

signal peaks that surpass the threshold.

 

However, when compressing using RMS mode, the compressor processes the audio using the

 

detected average RMS value of the entire file. The Root Mean Square (RMS) of audio is a

 

measure of its intensity over a period of time. Therefore, the RMS level of audio corresponds to

 

the loudness perceived by a listener when measured over small intervals of time. As a result,

 

rapid transient peaks may not be processed when compressing in RMS mode.

 

 

Auto gain compensate

When you select the Auto gain compensate check box, the compressor output is boosted by a

 

constant amount derived from the Threshold and Ratio settings. This option prevents a loss in

 

overall level when compressing audio.

 

Tip: When using the Auto gain compensate option, the Output gain fader should be used

 

to fine tune the signal output level.

 

 

Use longer look-ahead

When you select the Use longer look-aheadcheck box, the compressor scans farther ahead in

 

the incoming audio to determine how much compression is needed. This results in

 

compression being applied before the threshold-surpassing audio actually occurs, thereby

 

allowing for a slower Attack time value. However, the pre-compression effect (fades that occur

 

prior to attacks) of this option may be distracting.

 

 

Smooth saturation

Selecting the Smooth saturation check box lowers the amount of distortion caused when

 

applying heavy compression. When this option is turned on, the compressed audio sounds

 

warmer and not overly bright.

 

 

Input/Output meter

This meter allows you to monitor the level of the incoming and outgoing signals. When the

 

Input button is displayed, the meters display the incoming signal level. Clicking Input toggles

 

the button to an Output button and displays the outgoing signal level. Clicking Output returns

 

you to the incoming signal display.

 

 

Attenuation meter

This meter allows you to monitor the audio signal attenuation derived from the current

 

settings.

 

 

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