14/09/2022 12:39 Bass Compressor Settings | StudyBass

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Bass Compressor Settings

Bass Compressor Settings

Compression Threshold
Compressors usually have an adjustable threshold setting. The compression
threshold is the volume level (gain) at which the compression effect is
engaged. Any signal passing through the compressor which is louder than
the threshold setting will be compressed. Any signal lower than the threshold
will be unaffected.

If you can adjust the threshold setting on your compressor, adjust it to taste.
It depends on if you only want really loud notes compressed or most
everything compressed.

Compression Ratio
The compression ratio selects the
amount of compression to apply on
signals above the threshold. The ratio
might be something like 3:1 (3 to 1). That
means for every 3 dB you send to the
compressor beyond the threshold only 1
dB comes out. Notice in the diagram how
the slope of the dynamics changes past the compression threshold.

A 1:1 ratio would not compress anything.

An ∞:1 (infinity to 1) means for any signal above the threshold sent to the
compressor only 1dB comes out. This is known as limiting. You may see
units called compressor/limiters. Limiters are often used to prevent damage
to speakers. (Many TV sets now include limiters to squash loud
commercials.)

On some effects units the ratio is just marked as ‘compression’ or ‘amount’.

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Most bass players use a 2:1 up to 5:1 compression ratio. You really have to
listen closely to adjust it. It’s very subtle. At first you might wonder if it’s even
on and working! Try starting at the highest amount of compression and you’ll
hear the dynamics squashed. Then slowly lower the compression amount
until it suits your taste. A little goes a long way.

Compression Attack
Some compressors allow you to adjust the compressor’s attack.
Compression attack refers to when the compression effect is engaged after
the signal crosses the threshold. Attack is measured in milliseconds (ms).
You might adjust it from 0 (engages immediately) to a few milliseconds
(waits 2 to 10 ms).

The bulk of a volume spike comes at the beginning, or attack, of a note. If you
wanted the sound of your plucking or pick attack to come through more, you
could increase the attack time to let it pass through.

Compression Release
Compression release refers to how long the compressor is engaged after the
signal exceeds the threshold. Release is measured in milliseconds (ms).

A short release time would mean only the attack would be compressed and
the rest of the note would run its course like normal. A short release time
makes for a real squashed sound.

A long release time will follow the note more naturally as it decays. You will
feel more sustain from your notes with a longer release time.

Hard-Knee Compression and Soft-Knee Compression

On some audio compressors you may see the terms hard-knee and soft-
knee. Hard-knee compression kicks into its full compression amount as
soon as the threshold is crossed.

Soft-knee compression kicks in gradually as the threshold is crossed. Soft-

knee is a smoother sound. It’s probably the setting I’d choose on bass if I had
the option.
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Compression Settings Summary
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14/09/2022 12:39 Bass Compressor Settings | StudyBass

If you're new to compressors, it may take a fair amount of experimentation to

find the setting that most complements your bass playing style and your
equipment.

I would start off with a 3:1 ratio with 0 to 2 ms of attack and 100 ms of
release. Try adjusting the threshold from there. Then tweak the other settings
from that point. Don't over-compress. If you can really hear it or it makes a
pumping/breathing sound, you need to experiment some more. Remember,
compression is a subtle effect.

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