Simple Compressor
Stereo compressor with RMS/Peak detection, soft knee, and linked/unlinked stereo operation
Parameters
| Parameter | Range | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Threshold | -60 – 0 dB | -18 dB |
| Ratio | 1 – 20 | 4 |
| Attack | 0.1 – 100 ms | 10 ms |
| Release | 10 – 1000 ms | 150 ms |
| Knee | 0 – 24 dB | 6 dB |
| Makeup Gain | -12 – 24 dB | 0 dB |
| Detector Mode | RMS, Peak | RMS |
| Stereo Link | Unlinked, Linked | Linked |
Overview
Simple Compressor reduces level when the signal rises above Threshold. It evens out clean playing, adds sustain, controls sharp peaks, and can make a rig sit at a more consistent level. Ratio controls how strongly signals above the threshold are reduced. Attack decides how much of the initial pick can pass before compression, while Release controls how quickly gain recovers.
Knee softens the transition into compression. A wider knee sounds more
gradual, while 0 dB gives a firm transition at the threshold. Makeup Gain
restores level after reduction. RMS Detector Mode follows average energy for
a smoother musical response. Peak reacts more directly to transients. With
Stereo Link set to Linked, both channels receive the same gain change and the
stereo image remains steady. Unlinked lets each channel react independently.
Tips
- For transparent leveling, start at a 3:1 ratio, 15 ms Attack, 150 ms Release, and 6 dB Knee. Lower Threshold until louder notes compress gently.
- For more pick definition, lengthen Attack. For tighter peak control, shorten it.
- If the level pumps after each chord, lengthen Release or reduce Ratio. If the compressor stays clamped between notes, shorten Release or raise Threshold.
- Use Linked mode on stereo rigs unless independent channel movement is an intentional effect.
- Add Makeup Gain only after setting Threshold and Ratio, and compare against bypass at similar loudness.