Live Sound Vocal Compression

The lead vocals should be the center of your attention.

Live sound vocal compression.

For a vocal starting point set your threshold to 0db or 2db and a ratio of either 1 5 1 or 2 1. There is no one size fits all formula to vocal compression. This tc helicon t1 vocal compression unit is perfect for any singer looking for a singular functioning effects pedal. Lead vocals some recording engineers think compression is a must for vocals.

I wish i could do that too. This pedal s primary function is to help a singer control vocal dynamics and tone. Live sound is largely correcting problems with subtractive eq. Compression your best friend and your worst enemy.

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. Many bloggers will tell you what the perfect vocal compression settings are. By bypassing and applying the compressor get the input gain same as without the compressor. There are no magic settings that work 100 of the time.

This is a fine way to start with a comp on vocals and will let you actually hear much of whats happening as you dial it in and hear the way the compressor works with the voice. The processor is ideal for use in practices and live performances. You can use compression on vocals to just even out the performance and to create an effect. You can set the attack release to auto or go to 12 o clock on either one.

When used incorrectly compression can quickly ruin a good vocal recording and make your music sound amateur and over processed. If the vocal s volume drops down then adjust the makeup gain input. But the truth is it s not that easy. Compression should be used sparingly.

Heck it d certainly save me a few keystrokes. And i don t want to mislead you. When used correctly compression is a key ingredient for vocals that sound professional modern and radio ready.