Multiband compression is an incredibly useful tool that gives you more control over your dynamics. Let’s find out what it is exactly and how to use it in your mixes.
So to start things off, let’s talk about what multiband compression is exactly and what problems it solves. A multiband compressor is a compressor that splits an audio signal into multiple frequency bands, normally two to six, and allows you to compress them independently of each other.
So if you’re dividing a signal into four frequency bands, for example, the sub-bass and bass in the first band, low-mids in the second, high-mids in the third and highs in the fourth, you’ve effectively got four separate compressors there.
There are loads of mixing scenarios where this can be helpful. For example, attenuating unpleasant swells of particular frequencies that only occur on certain notes. You can use it to balance the overall frequency response of a drum kit, and perhaps pull back the attack on only the high-mids to allow the transients of the snare through. It can even be used as a de-esser to reduce harsh sibilance in vocal recordings, by compressing just the highs. And so much more.
I go more into how this works and how to use a multiband compressor plugin in the video. You’ll also see some real-life examples of a multiband compressor being used in a mix.
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Jump Ahead
- Intro – 0:00
- What is Multiband Compression? – 0:04
- Multiband Compression Parameters – 2:35
- Mixing with Multiband Compression – 6:34
- Outro – 11:36
Featured artists – Rusty G’s