

In recent years, this has changed with the introduction of models like the Pendulum OCL-2, Tube-Tech CL2A, and Avalon AD2044. However, they are sometimes thought to react too slowly to be used on the mix bus. Optical compressors are very popular for mixing. Vari-mu's are an excellent choice for acoustic styles of music like folk, blues, or even jazz. Famous models like the Fairchild 670 and Manley Vari-Mu yeild a warm, smooth sound. This design uses a tube to acheive the compression, creating subtle harmonic distortion. Variable mu style compressors are another common choice for the mix bus. These are a great choice for more aggressive styles of music like rock, hip-hop, and edm. VCA's are known for gluing the mid-range and causing the music breath. The famous SSL G-series, API 2500, and Neve 33609 use this solid-state design. VCA compressors are known for adding punch to a mix. Be sure to choose the right compressor for your mix. Some may work better for certain genre's than others. Different compressor types will yeild different sonic results. It is important to choose the appropriate type of mix bus compressor for the music. Here are some tips to help when using mix bus compression. In fact, an over compressed mix bus can completely destroy the groove and impact of the music. Too much compression can cause things to become dull and lifeless. However, improper use of this can ruin the sonics. Using mix bus compression you will be able to craft more "analog" sounding mixes. This can help to "squeeze" the mix during the loudest sections and open up during quiet parts. The sound of your mix will change depending on how much compression is used. Pushing level into this will cause the compressor to react. Setting the threshold creates a "ceiling" for your mix. However, using a mix bus compressor can have a similar effect. Mixing in the box, we do not have the benefits of analog circuitry and cannot push signal into the red.

This caused the console to saturate and compress the signal, creating a pleasing sonic timbre. In the analog days, mixers were able to push levels into the red without the fear of harsh digital clipping. Most importantly, it can help to add emotion and impact to a mix. It can also help to smooth out transient peaks and raise the RMS levels. It can help to bring out subtle elements in the mix, creating greater sonic depth. It can help the music to breath and move as a whole.

So, why use mix bus compression?Ĭompressing the mix bus can do many things for your music. However, it can seem like a dark art if you are new to mixing. Many top engineers swear by it, claiming that it can add depth, punch, and glue to a mix.

Mix bus compression can be a mysterious and confusing topic for novice mixers.
