Do I need a compressor for live sound?

Don’t go crazy with the EQ. You’re not mixing in the studio. 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.

What does a compressor do in live music?

Compression is used in music to reduce the dynamic range of signals with loud and quiet elements so that both can be heard clearly. Compression is used in music to reduce the dynamic range of signals with loud and quiet elements so that both can be heard clearly.

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.

Do singers use compressors?

When used correctly, compression is a key ingredient for vocals that sound professional, modern and radio-ready. When used incorrectly, compression can quickly ruin a good vocal recording and make your music sound amateur and over-processed.

What do you need for live vocals?

Choosing the right amplifier for each instrument present is vital to a good balance of sound on stage, and set up is essential so they don’t interfere with the microphones. A common problem with amplifiers is not only feedback in stage microphones but rapid degradation of cable jacks due to frequent use in live venues.

Are compressors important?

And it’s true, compressors serve a very valuable purpose in recording and mixing. What are compressors used for? Compression allows you to reduce the dynamic range of your audio. Dynamic range is the range of volume in your audio, the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of your audio.

How much does compressor reduce?

Open your compressor of choice and watch how the gain reduction increases as you turn down the threshold. If you lower the threshold or turn up the ratio, you’re compressing the signal harder. If you’re looking for compression that sound smooth and transparent, shoot for somewhere between 2 and 4 dBs of gain reduction.

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.

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.