Learn Compression & Dynamics Processing: The Complete Guide! from Udemy

About this course:

Whether you're into recording, mixing, mastering, live sound, broadcast, or podcasts you need to know how to use compressors. In this class you'll learn everything about using compressors. We'll take you from basic understanding of compression through the subtle differences between the most popular compressors.

We'll teach you a fool proof system to set up any compressor on any instrument – it's all about setting up the controls in the correct order, knowing what's possible and using your ears. We'll also show you tried and true compressor/instrument combinations to get genre specific sounds. Because compressors are the most complex and abundant studio dynamics processors, that's where we'll spend most of our time. But because there are many ways to control dynamics, you'll also learn how to use expanders, gates and limiters.

In this class you'll learn...

Advanced compressor controls. Different types of compressors. What compressors are commonly used for certain instruments. How to setup any compressor on any instrument.

What to listen for when setting up a compressor on: Drum Busses. Bass Guitars. Synthesizers. Acoustic Guitars (rhythm and lead). Vocals (lead, backgrounds, harmonies). Voice Overs.

Advanced techniques like: Sidechain compression. Serial compression. Parallel compression. Multiband compression. Mix bus compression. Mid-Side (MS) compression. Automating the controls.

You'll also learn how to...

Use Expanders and Gates on: Live drums to reduce bleed. Drum samples to change their envelope. Bass and electric guitar to get rid of hiss and hum. Vocal tracks to reduce breath noise. Voiceover tracks to reduce room noise and AC hum.

Advanced Expander/Gate techniques like: Using gating and compression together in a channel strip. Use envelope modulators like SPL's Transient, Waves' TransX and Logic's Enveloper.

Engineer Ian Sutton background: Ian will thoroughly walk you through one of his most recent pop rock mixes, revealing all sorts of creative mixing and production techniques he's acquired throughout years of study and practice.

He is Certified Pro in Apple's Logic and Avid's Pro Tools. Ian has also worked with the likes of +44 (Mark Hoppus & Travis Barker), Fallout Boy, Frankie J, Rob Halford of Judas Priest, T-Pain, Deepak Chopra, Jerry Lewis, Los Tucanes de Tijuana and many more.

. What happens if you don't get professional help?  The reality is without proper training they won't sound much different. Yes, you can spend hours, days, and weeks trying to find YouTube clips online, but they only do so much. This mixing class has 4 hours of instruction from a professional Recording Studio with over 25 years of experience servicing some of the biggest bands in the world. Invest in something that matters, your passion in creating music. We're the answer to help you get better.

What's inside

Learning objective

Over 25 years of experience and expertise from a professional recording studio that has serviced bands such as u2, blink 182, switchfoot, icona pop and many many more.

Syllabus

Introduction to the class and what to expect.

Important things to consider before starting this class.

The basics to compression and dynamics processors.

In this lecture we discuss the basics of Dynamics Processors and how they work.

In this lecture we discuss the basics of compression.

In this lecture we discuss the basic controls used on compressors.

In this lecture we discuss the advanced controls used on compressors.

In this lecture we'll be discussing types of compressors, Tube, VCA, FET and Optical and their sonic differences.

Using compression on different instruments.

In this lecture we'll be setting the compressor, using your ears to dial in the settings for any instrument.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compression for the the kick, snare and toms.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for overhead and room mics.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for the drum bus.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for the clean electric bass.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for the synth bass.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for the acoustic guitar.

In this lecture we'll discuss using compressors for vocals.

A variety of advanced compression techniques.

In this lecture we'll discuss using sidechain compression - EDM pumping synth effect.

In this lecture we'll be discussing sidechain compression - Making room in the mix.

In this lecture we'll be discussing sidechain compression - Trailing delay.

In this lecture we'll be discussing serial compression.

In this lecture we'll be discussing multiband compression.

In this lecture we'll be discussing mix bus compression.

In this lecture we'll be discussing parallel compression.

In this lecture we'll be discussing mid side compression.

In this lecture we'll be discussing frequency dependent compression.

A variety of advanced limiter, gate and expander techniques.

In this lecture we'll be discussing limiters.

In this lecture we'll be discussing gates and expanders.

In this lecture we'll be discussing gates and expanders on a multitrack set of drums.

In this lecture we'll be discussing using a gate to change the envelope of a drum sample.

In this lecture we'll be discussing using a gate to get ride of unwanted noise for a distorted bass.

In this lecture we'll be discussing expanders and gates on vocals.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Taught by some of the most respected heavyweights in the industry

Covers all aspects of using compressors, a nuanced tool for advanced audio engineering

Features a variety of supplemental material to help you succeed

You'll complete this knowing how to use a compressor like a seasoned pro

Ian Sutton has worked with the likes of +44 (Mark Hoppus & Travis Barker), Fallout Boy, Frankie J, Rob Halford of Judas Priest, T-Pain, Deepak Chopra, Jerry Lewis, Los Tucanes de Tijuana and many more

Reviews summary

Highly instructive compression guide

According to students, this course provides a comprehensive guide to compression and dynamics processing. Students say the instructor is knowledgeable and explains concepts in a clear and engaging way. One student even said they received more information in this class than they expected. The course not only covers the technical aspects but also demonstrates the practical application and the reasons behind certain adjustments, improving the student's overall understanding of the topic.

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn Compression & Dynamics Processing: The Complete Guide! with these activities:

Compile an Overview

Show steps

Compile notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams into a single document so that you can have all course materials readily available during the course.

Show steps

Review the syllabus to get an overview of the course topics.
Organize your study materials into logical sections.
Use a note-taking app or notebook to compile your materials.
Regularly update your overview document as you progress through the course.

Review Basic Compressor Controls

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of the fundamentals by reviewing the basic controls of a compressor.

Browse courses on Compression

Show steps

Refer back to the course materials or online resources to refresh your knowledge.
Practice adjusting the basic controls on your own projects or sample audio.

Review Compressor Applications on Different Instruments

Show steps

Strengthen your foundation by reviewing how compressors are used on different instruments.

Show steps

Go back to the course materials or online resources to review the different applications of compressors on various instruments.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Practice Compression on Different Instruments

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of compression by practicing on a variety of instruments.

Browse courses on Compression

Show steps

Select a few different instruments that you want to practice on.
Set up a recording session and record yourself playing each instrument.
Apply compression to each recording using different settings.
Listen to the results and compare the different compression techniques.

Share and Discuss Advanced Compression Techniques

Show steps

Deepen your understanding by discussing advanced compression techniques with peers and sharing your experiences.

Browse courses on Compression

Show steps

Find a study group or online community where you can connect with other students or professionals.
Organize a virtual or in-person session to discuss your questions and insights.

Learn Advanced Compressor Techniques

Show steps

Supplement your learning by following guided tutorials to explore advanced compressor techniques, such as sidechain compression, multiband compression, and parallel compression.

Browse courses on Compression

Show steps

Identify specific advanced compressor techniques you want to learn.
Search for reputable tutorials or online courses that cover these techniques.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step and experiment with the techniques in your own projects.

Create a Reference Guide for Compressor Settings

Show steps

Solidify your knowledge by creating a reference guide that summarizes the optimal compressor settings for different instruments and situations.

Browse courses on Compression

Show steps

Research and gather information on the appropriate compressor settings for various instruments.
Organize the information into a clear and concise format.
Include examples and explanations to illustrate the different settings.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn Compression & Dynamics Processing: The Complete Guide! will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Recording Engineer

Recording Engineers record, mix, edit, and master audio for recordings. They work on projects such as film, television, radio, music albums, and video games. The knowledge you will gain in this course may help build a foundation for success in this role. The course provides information on how to set up different compressors on instrument tracks, which may be of great value for Recording Engineers, as managing levels and dynamics is a core responsibility of the role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Recording Engineer

Audio Mixing Engineer

Audio Mixing Engineers combine multiple audio tracks into a single cohesive mix. They work on projects such as film, television, radio, music albums, and video games. The knowledge you will gain in this course may help build a foundation for success in this role. The course provides information on how to set up different compressors on instrument tracks, which may be of great value for Audio Mixing Engineers, as managing dynamics across multiple tracks is a core responsibility of the role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Mixing Engineer

Audio Mastering Engineer

Audio Mastering Engineers prepare audio for distribution. They ensure that audio recordings sound their best and meet industry standards. The knowledge you will gain in this course may help build a foundation for success in this role. The course provides information on how to set up different compressors on instrument tracks, which may be of great value for Audio Mastering Engineers, as managing dynamics is an important skill for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Mastering Engineer

Live Sound Engineer

Live Sound Engineers manage the audio for live events. They work on projects such as concerts, conferences, and sporting events. The knowledge you will gain in this course may help build a foundation for success in this role. The course provides information on how to set up different compressors on instrument tracks, which may be of great value for Live Sound Engineers, as controlling dynamics is an essential skill for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Live Sound Engineer

Broadcast Engineer

Broadcast Engineers manage the audio for radio and television broadcasts. They ensure that audio signals are clear and free of distortion. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful in this role, as managing dynamics is a common engineering responsibility, but there is also a specific focus on broadcast standards and technologies that may not be covered in this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Broadcast Engineer

Podcast Producer

Podcast Producers plan, record, edit, and produce podcasts. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful in this role, as managing audio dynamics is a common responsibility for podcasters, but there is also a greater focus on managing workflows, guest relations, and the business aspects of podcasting that may not be covered in this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Podcast Producer

Music Producer

Music Producers oversee the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. They work with artists to develop their sound and vision. The knowledge you will gain in this course may help build a foundation for success in this role. The course provides information on how to set up different compressors on instrument tracks, which may be of great value for Music Producers, as managing levels and dynamics is a core responsibility of the role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer

Audio Post-Production Engineer

Audio Post-Production Engineers edit and mix audio for film and television. They work on projects such as documentaries, feature films, and television shows. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful in this role, as managing dynamics is a common engineering responsibility, but there is also a greater focus on storytelling and production workflows in this domain.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Post-Production Engineer

Sound Designer

Sound Designers create and edit sound effects for film, television, radio, and video games. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful in this role, as it helps build a foundation for understanding audio dynamics, but there is also a greater focus on sound design and effects creation, which may not be covered in this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Designer

Acoustical Engineer

Acoustical Engineers design and improve the acoustics of spaces. They work on projects such as concert halls, theaters, and recording studios. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful in this role, as it helps build a foundation for understanding audio dynamics, but there is also a greater focus on room acoustics and sound propagation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Acoustical Engineer

Musician

Musicians perform and record music. They work on projects such as albums, singles, and live performances. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful, as it builds a foundational understanding of audio dynamics and how they can be used in music production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musician

Singer

Singers perform and record vocals. They work on projects such as albums, singles, and live performances. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful, as it builds a foundational understanding of audio dynamics and how they can be used in music production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Singer

Composer

Composers create and write music for film, television, and video games. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful, as it builds a foundational understanding of audio dynamics and how they can be used in music production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Composer

Arranger

Arrangers create and write music arrangements for film, television, and video games. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful, as it builds a foundational understanding of audio dynamics and how they can be used in music production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arranger

Songwriter

Songwriters create and write songs. They work on projects such as albums, singles, and live performances. The knowledge you will gain in this course may be somewhat helpful, as it builds a foundational understanding of audio dynamics and how they can be used in music production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter