Are You Using the Wrong Compressor? Compression Masterclass

Let's look at the different common types of Compressors: FET, Tube (Vari-Mu), Optical and VCA.
This video is intended to follow on from my "Compression Explained" video where you can learn how to dial in all the settings and feel confident with your mixing.
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0:00 - Intro
0:20 - Overview
0:45 - FET
4:05 - Tube (Vari-Mu)
7:07 - Optical
8:45 - VCA
11:45 - Outro
FET Compression:
These are bold compressors with incredibly fast attack times. FET compressors are not subtle and will usually lead to an obvious and familiar tone. Be careful with those fast attack times, it can be best to start off with the slower attack times (still very fast at 800 micro seconds!). Some famous examples include the UREI 1176 (especially revisions C, D and E).
Try using a FET compressor to tame the transients of a vocal or instrument during recording and follow it with a slower and smoother compressor such as tube or optical.
Tube Compression:
Some of the first compressors used tubes (or valves) to control the gain reduction. They typically have slow attack and release times so preserve transients well. They are often described as "muscial" and "warm" due to the obvious colouration/saturation they provide. Often a tube compressor (or pre amp) can be an effective form of EQ due to the dramatic tonal changes they can impart!. Some famous examples include the Fairchild 670 and the Manley Vari-Mu.
Optical Compression:
These have a highly unusual circuit design where the audio signal (as electric current) causes a light to glow at varying intensities. The light is detected by a photocell and the resulting current is used to determine the gain reduction applied. The speed of light is blisteringly fast but the bulb or LED doesn't react quickly to transients. This allows optical compressors to have a unique attack and release behaviour where the release time changes in a non linear fashion depending on the amount of input signal. Use these gently for transparent compression and general leveling or drive them hard for some obvious pumping and distortion. They are often paired with tube or transitor output stages to add further saturation. Famous examples include the TELETRONIX LA-2A.
VCA Compression:
The most flexible and customisable compression of the 4. They excel equally on entire mixes and can be found in the best mastering compressors and on mixing consoles including SSL, Neve and API. Some famous examples include the Distressor, SSL G comp and the API 2500. They are the most common type of compressor for good reason, they offer excellent sound, are relatively affordable and easier to maintain with soild state ciruitry.
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In this video I am using Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro headphones
#Compression #mixing #musicproduction

[@47dark]

This dude never misses, It's like he literally hears all your worries and makes a detailed video of it 🌟

[@47dark]

I hope you reach 1 million very fast and beyond

[@gurkamalsinghbhogal9043]

Agreed...👍👍👍

[@47dark]

Did I just get pinned :DDD

[@manasiangal1405]

So true! I have was just ready to mix a song and he dropped this!

[@JahBreed]

Its spooky.

[@slayabouts]

“Are you using the wrong compressor?” Yes. Yes I am

[@ndzmndz]

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[@fairekennings2347]

“Are you using the wrong compressor?” No, I'm not. I just use the wrong brain x(((

[@alidarxx]

What a king.

[@RiffMusic1970]

The wrong compressor, the wrong way. 😩

[@thenaturallaw]

yo this made me laugh, right there with ya LOL

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The details in your tutorials tells how much you actually care for the quality of knowledge you seek to provide for your audiences. Big RESPECT!!!!!!!

[@danielpicard3994]

High class tutorial with accurate and detailed examples. Probably one of the best audio related channel on KZbin!

[@manasiangal1405]

Just when I have made a premix of my song and ready to mix, you dropped this video! Timing could not have been any better! Thank you so much for your hard work! 💙

[@veritykills8748]

You videos are always so neat and informative and 'transparent', quiet and free from all those background music. Soothing.

[@DubstepJohnsomn]

Thank you for level matching on all these comparisons. Makes it so clear what effect is being achieved.

[@djunk_nown245]

OMGGG!!! I had asked Michael to make a video on types of compressors, few weeks ago. I am very happy to see that he actually heard our pleads and made a video on it. Truly the best music production teacher who listens to his student's queries and solves them! Keep up the gud work!!!

[@jjdubois6101]

Dude, please put a de esser on your voice

[@NelsenGChess]

i'm blessed to actually fully grasp the concept of compression, but this video totally refines it for me. knowing what type of compressor to use on certain instruments and busses and whatnot makes a HUGE difference. thanks!

[@surjazz_]

Hands down, one of the best explanations of the different types of compression. Subscribed.

[@kasashkastu7149]

Can't thank you enough Michael. Your tutorials helped me so much, literally most of the stuff I've learnt is from this channel! ♥️

[@darkozoric4184]

Best video to date by any audio engineer on compression. Straight to the point without any fairy dust. Instant subscriber

[@jimmyrichards2909]

I've always appreciated how he never overhypes himself for KZbin, so you really get drawn into the content he is teaching somehow.

[@justsayin5639]

Understanding something, and being able to teach that very thing to others, are two very different skills. Mike here possesses both of them. Thank you for educating us!

[@mdmn8160]

Most useful video I've watched on KZbin about compression. You never disappoint us. Much love from Burundi 🇧🇮

[@DiskordiaUKGR]

the way you communicate knowledge across is at a professor level - well done

[@trumansienicki]

I have always been confused about different types of compression throughout making music, but here it is cleared up! Thanks, Michael, you really taught me something important here!

[@benkestokmusic]

compression: hard to learn, hard to master haha

[@trumansienicki]

@@benkestokmusic Haha yes I agree

[@hillsnectar4927]

I can say with all confidence that Mike is the best audio engineering tutor I've see online

[@Vambibuda]

this video deserves millions of views. too detailed and cleared. great vid.

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You're channel is seriously a golden treasure of knowledge

[@Karlush]

your* 😁

[@D_Snutz]

@Karina Lopez ...doesn't matter...you're the type that would rather people ignore when you're wrong instead of correcting yourself...sad...

[@tenorHarlequin]

@Karina Lopez In the case that English isn't their first language, I will say that I always appreciate corrections in languages that I don't natively speak. Can't learn otherwise.

[@AshDeep]

@@Karlush I knew there will be someone in the replies correcting this 😂

[@davidsgardell]

I’m not a native speaker, it’s not even my second language, and I *never* mixed up you’re/your until a some years ago, when noticed people are making this mistake online. Very strange. I usually reread before I post, but I’m still surprised the few times it will happen. It makes more sense to make these kinds of mistakes in your own language. We have them in Swedish too.

[@noahsalomon8250]

Taught me almost everything I know. Excellent videos consistently. Genuine appreciation

[@modern.day.meditations]

I love what you're doing to that guitar with the FET. Just cleared things for me. Thank you!

[@winstonfj4174]

a new in the mix upload means an immediate like!

[@Legacyshowlive]

the way you explain stuff is amazing, honestly, when I need to make research on something, i go straight to your channel. keep it brother !!

[@helsinkiproject]

You are by far my favourite go-to for mixing & mastering tips. No gimmicks at all, just what you need to know, very well presented. Thank you 👏

[@clowncarqingdao]

Actually, the clarity of presentation is excellent. No fill, no waffle, clear explanations and rapid movement without repetition.

[@TraxtasyMedia]

I learned so much about mixing and mastering, so how about the idea of doing a complete masterclass video/stream, where you explain your work on a specific song and give feedback on questions, that pop up in your audience? You are serving an overwhelming job, even in these times.

[@precisionsoundworksstudio]

Upvote! This is a great idea. A complete MasterClass would be very valuable. Even moderately priced at something like a $100.00 for the full MasterClass session would be very fair! Love it!

[@JAM_MCG]

Thank you for this, I have watched many compression videos and NONE talked about how each type works

[@godco7719]

bro fr jus has the best tutorials for everything there is to know in an in depth and useful way

[@DONPTV]

What a production channel this is! Always learning something every video. Thanks again :)

[@uskkshare]

Thanks, Mike how kind of you to share to the world with your working hard.

[@ElmerAbapo]

Incredibly informative video. Compression is already a dense topic to understand and understand the process for different types of compressor is just another layer. Thank you for clarifying each type in easy to understand vocabulary.

[@lukewarm5356]

Best and simplest explanation on that topic I've ever come across, thanks muchly.

[@whatwillyousay]

I listened to about 5 minutes of one of your other videos and subscribed on the spot. Very well explained, you have a great ear and I look forward to sharing your videos with my undergrads.

[@inthemix]

Thank you so much!

[@vardhantapdiya5017]

Best channel on KZbin to learn mixing and mastering.

[@jupiter901]

I thought that was most helpful, I always thought a compressor was all the same, I am now going through my collection, just found out the Royal compressor is a tube, I enjoyed that and be reading up on my collection. Great Video.

[@michaeltablet8577]

Thank you so very much! Your videos have helped so much.! There are 2 kinds of beginner mixers. Those who struggle to understand compression and liars. For me it has been the hardest part.

[@shala_shashka]

this is the video I’ve been looking for and will help me IMMENSELY.

[@justinbrown8214]

This was so clear and concise, the conclusion really helped to nail down the key points. Very good info, thank you!

[@condorgoldl]

Thank you for the wealth of data your channel contains and the means of which the information is relayed is suited to me. I appreciate you sir.

[@guilma2]

I am a person who didn't understand how the compressor really works and sounds like, but after I watched this video, now I get that😂😂😂 So appreciate!!! You are the BEST!!!

[@LEVRAN]

Excellent michael! Great refresher

[@odinmusicproductions2894]

Once again, another awesome video with great information. This guy is always on point. Great work.

[@zane7427]

Funny how this pops up right as I start pondering wtf is compression and how do I use it lmaoo, this channel never fails me

[@mayurraut5399]

It's been 4 years now I watching your every single video I hope you keep doing this 😊

[@Terribleguitarist89]

The House of Kush has a killer video about "how to hear compression" and showing how to critically hear the effects of the compressor's settings.

[@mekullag9787]

best video on compressors I´ve ever seen

[@petea8644]

Gregs video is great for beginners to become familiar with compression, but Michaels video is such a godsend for someone who understands compression in general, but is looking to expand the options their tonal palate. I would say that both of these videos are the best I've seen on YT thus far, thanks Michael! Love this channel.

[@metallicafan3124]

greg and michael are the goats

[@queenpurple8433]

@@metallicafan3124 no, they’re human

[@atp19xx]

That must be the video with a compressor designer geeking out on drum compression in thumbnail.. o,o

[@umanoid1523]

Great explanation. I didn’t even realize there was so much difference between these. I sort of use all different modeled compression as glue in send subgroups and compress tracks using something like izotope or a daw compressor.

[@Bendy2K]

Superb mate. Lots of handy tips and tricks, even for those vaguely familiar with the different kinds. Thank you so much.

[@1tonibalone]

You have one of the best youtube production channels. Wow i love this

[@jemwand2530]

Excellent tutorial. I don't know if my ears are getting better at hearing compression or thge examples shown were chosen specifically, but , either way, this was a really helpful, comprehensive guide to help to find the correct compressor for each specific situation. Thanks so much.

[@petrknedlik]

Thank you so much for this! Now I finally heared the diference between each type of compressors

[@nunojorgenjstudio7954]

Very clear, simple but yet detailed enough. Thanks, bro!

[@twocanucksful]

This video is extremely well done and useful for hobbyists just getting started with mixing and mastering.

[@trevorhust760]

Thanks for the vid brother. I got a few golden nuggets out of this and applied immediately for better results

[@ramizian]

Thank you so much Michael! Now I'll know which type of compressor to use every time I need to compress something 😊😊

[@mrvron]

When ever you watch his channel takes notes Micheal am looking forward to meeting you when I start touring. Thank you 🙏

[@Keroser1983]

AMAZING!!!! Very clear, all to the point!!! Thank you very much man!

[@feel4it39]

WoW... simply amazing 👏. Much needed information. I rarely comment but this video deserve praise . 🙌

[@Automagi]

Love this! Great video. Very informative and straight to the point.

[@zzzyzzzyzzzyxxx]

Thanks - this info and your how to hear compression video made me a subscriber.

[@ndzmndz]

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[@lilwombat]

I've been wanting a good video like this for a while thank you

[@heyiplaybassguitar]

Fantastic video - thanks for sharing this gem!! I wish stock plugins in DAWs made it more obvious which type of compressor they are going for. But I guess at the end of the day we should be using our ears and deciding what's right for the job. Appreciate the little review segments you add, before moving onto the next concept/type. Well done! Subbed.

[@theindiefilmdude]

I NEVER stop learning with you😎💪

[@demishellen]

Absolutely spot on demonstration of compression👌🏼

[@dc4707]

WELL ITS WELL EXPLAINED CANT SAY I DIDN'T LEARN SOMETHING AND TO THINK I ALMOST SKIP PAST THIS. WELL DONE

[@elijahmusic9489]

Yes boss.. always on point when it comes to mixing and mastering.. #In the mix

[@alexinfanti4252]

Thanks for this video - excellent masterclass!

[@andrewcrabtree7410]

Dude thank you for everything you put out, you are a blessing

[@Babidibubidi]

Thank you for this great video series, great idea and an even better help!

[@iainmackenzieUK]

superb! Really useful summary and reflection on application of compression. Many thanks

[@maximeblais2032]

Very good and clear explanations as always !

[@KhatiBass]

Your channel as well as you are the golden meterial. Thank you so much 🤍🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@wienernoose8982]

Thank you for the insight bro! This was a great refresher.

[@benkestokmusic]

Compression and the different types of compressors is some of the most recent knowledge I gained, feel like it's not talked about as much in certain communities

[@heyiplaybassguitar]

I agree - it's often overlooked. I feel like it's more blatantly obvious when working with hardware, but since most of us are mixing/mastering in the box these days, that knowledge isn't often discussed or shared!

[@RolfGuitar]

fr, i attended engineering school and this wasn't really touched on, we really didn't discuss the actual components of hardware much at all, in favor of plugins obv. Ironic considering that's really the entire plugin game in mimicking these nuances. if i wanted a crystal clear comp i could use fabfilter all day, yet i find myself obsessed with what makes character

[@mooniz4691]

Great work you're doing here, man. Thanks!

[@cloudsontrack15music]

the quality just keeps getting better

[@_aconic]

Man you taught me production !!!!! , bruv . Thnx fr all these .

[@d_triqxonthefixx]

Best video i've seen all week amazing

[@sahandzangeneh1819]

Thank you so much!! It was such a great masterclass!

[@na_der]

the best compressor types video on youtube!

[@Richardnova]

Thanks Mike😇 I love this series 😊

[@tinlongleungleung8486]

You have the best videos Micheal. Cheers, hope to see more video about gears type and models that are well known in the industry so beginners can communicate and understand why some plugins are modelled after the real life models

[@therealtaxman6471]

Great video Michael! Thanks a lot

[@TheHorseValse]

Nice one! :) Great info, perfect format and time factor!

[@trasvelli]

I needed a detailed description of a compressor thank you so much Sir I was looking for KZbin videos to explain that

[@deoneilmejia5465]

Thank you so much for a great and clear explanation sir. Looking forward for more videos.

[@createsumore]

Extremely helpful video! Thank you for sharing 🤟🏻

[@Official_RIDM]

thanks for again a great in depth masterclass!

[@KarasamaBeats]

I really needed this ! A life saver you are fam !

[@gurkamalsinghbhogal9043]

I asked for this And you delivered Thank you so much.....

[@Solid_Hank]

Finally, someone's teaching about this stuff!

[@risingphoenix1484]

Man this was a great explanation. Thank you.

[@TachyBunker]

Wow, you enlightened me. Thank you for sweet knowledge, I'm gonna try it out, thanks!!

[@keechad1527]

Such great stuff. I have been so confused how to use them until this day all becoz of this video🥰

[@johndavenport7073]

Very well done! Learned something

[@james2touchmuminkohbeats.21]

Best teacher ever, I just wish I had your voice and style of talking and teaching a great gentle teacher I have ever made because of you, lifestyledidit and jaycactus I will one day make money with my beats♥️

[@briankingart]

Succinctly brilliant Michael. Thank you.

[@jasonangel12]

Boy you are wonderful the way you explain is so easy to understand thank u very much

[@edsterling5258]

You sir are a professor to us all. Thank you for the endless great information.

[@TNT-km2eg]

To all youtube university students who can't read

[@supralunar]

Brilliant video! Thanks!

[@YUNG-BLOW]

Well explained! We enjoy your videos