Everyone loves compressors. They can even out the dynamics in an out-of-control track. They can glue together multiple tracks by giving them a more unified sound. “Color” compressors can impart a pleasing tone (or a pleasing distortion), which can make everything sound better. Can you ever have enough compression?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Too much compression can squash all the life out of your track or your mix, leaving your source material sounding thin and lacking any dynamics. Overusing your favorite color compressor can impart a “sameness” to every track that can make your mix sound boring. Keep these three basic rules in mind:
Just enough, and not a dB more. When using compression to even out dynamics, experiment to find the least amount of compression you can use to have the effect you want. Leave in some dynamics.
Paint with multiple colors. Don’t use the same color compressor for all your tracks. You may like the tone or distortion a particular compressor imparts, but use it on just a few tracks to make them stand out. You wouldn’t paint a picture with only one color of paint, don’t paint your sonic picture with just one tonal color.
Not everything needs compression. If a track doesn’t need dynamic control and sounds good, don’t throw on a compressor just because you like the sound. Know when to leave it alone.
Compression does sound great, and can seemingly work magic on many tracks and mixes. Don’t shy away from using compression when necessary, but always use it judiciously.