Multiband Compressors vs. Dynamic EQs: Differences and Uses

Multiband compressors and dynamic EQs are some of the most useful tools available to audio engineers. They allow for dynamic control of defined frequency ranges, providing some of the functionality and benefits of both EQs and compressors. Their ability to correct “problem” frequencies in a detailed and generally transparent way makes them extremely helpful for balancing a single sound or a full mix.

Useful comparison from iZotope to help us choose between these somewhat similarly behaving tools.

Up Your Expressiveness with Upward Expansion — PreSonus Blog

Many people don’t realize there are two types of expansion. Downward expansion is a popular choice for minimizing low-level noise like hiss and hum. It’s the opposite of a compressor: compression progressively reduces the output level above a certain threshold, while a downward expander progressively reduces the output level below a certain threshold. For example, with 2:1 compression, a 2 dB input level increase above the threshold yields a 1 dB increase at the output. With 1:2 expansion, a 1 dB input level decrease below the threshold yields 2 dB of attenuation at the output.

‘[Compression: When and How to Use It in Nectar, Neutron, and Ozone](https://www.izotope.com/en/learn/compression-how-to-use-it-in-nectar-neutron-and-ozone.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Compression_Nectar_Neutron_Ozone)’

Compression: When and How to Use It in Nectar, Neutron, and Ozone

In previous articles, we covered different types of hardware compressors and why their behavior matters in this hybrid/digital world. We also covered typical mistakes engineers make in using compression. This article expounds on compression in a specific way: we are diving into the various compressors available in the iZotope ecosystem and relating them to real-world applications.

by Nick Messitte, iZotope Contributor December 9, 2019

Audio Compression Basics | Universal Audio

Compressors and limiters are used to reduce dynamic range — the span between the softest and loudest sounds. Using compression can make your tracks sound more polished by controlling maximum levels and maintaining higher average loudness. Here are some compression basics, different compression types, and some tips to try on your tracks.

Mason Hicks does an excellent job of describing compression, compressors, and why do it at all.

Note that the stock compressor in Logic Pro X can be used for each of the compressor types — tube, optical, FET, and VCA. The “Platinum” compressor in Logic is really none of the types listed, maybe more like a Distressor?

4 Tips for Using Upwards Compression in Neutron

by Nick Messitte, iZotope Contributor September 18, 2019

In an earlier article called “Expanding on compression” I covered unusual forms of dynamic processing, including upwards compression. Neutron 3 offers the ability to implement upwards compression, so I thought it would be useful to cover it further.