Multi-Band Compression

Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2002 7:33 am

This is a topic of intense debate, since it is very much like EQ'ing...there are guidelines, but to do this well, you need to use your ears and a bit of experience.

I will admit that I am a total rookie when it comes to multi-band compression. I have tried the one that comes with Sound Forge 5.0, and could never get anything musical to come out of it!!! <grin> I also use Wavelab (much more than Sound Forge, actually), and have finally ordered the 4.0 upgrade (it is *still* backordered!!! Grrrr...). This new upgrade comes with a new multi-band compressor which I am anxious to try to see if I can get some better results with my masters.

I have also looked at the Waves C4, and the new C6 that comes with their Mastering Bundle, and they are both pricy alternatives for a complicated plug-in that I am not sure how to even begin using. I also know that Ozone has a bulit-in version, and probably T-Racks as well...

Now to my questions!

1) Has anyone used the new Steinberg Multi-Band that is coming with Wavelab 4? What's the opinion?

2) Any general advice/guidelines for using a M-B Compressor???

Thanx!

Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2002 1:46 am

Hey Doublehelix,
You don't know how badly I want to get my hands on that c4 Waves plug-in. I am finding that sometimes I want to compress the bottom end while leaving the top all perky. Multiband is exactly the kind of processing that is so much easier to do with a plug-in than outboard gear- less circuitry to run through. Cheers, Doc.

Posted: Tue Jun 11, 2002 9:08 am

I just got the new ultrafunk R3 plugin pack yesterday and the multiband compressor seems to be really useful and musical. Now I'm no master at multiband compression, but even just applying the "medium Vintage" preset did absolute wonders for my mix with just a few minor tweaks. The sonic Foundry plugin does nothing for me either and I can't afford waves, so its Ultrafunk for me.

Posted: Wed Jun 12, 2002 8:51 am

Has anyone used the DB-Audioware plugins? I downloaded the demo and later on, paid the $99 for them. I think they work fairly well and the multiband compression is basic, but does do a good job. My favorites are the limiter and compressor.

Posted: Sat Jun 22, 2002 10:02 pm

I have Wavelab 4.0, and use the multi band compressor on stereo mixes as well as individual tracks. It is the first mb compressor I have used, but I think it is an excellent tool. You can really add punch with this plug!

BillT
Cool

Posted: Sun Jun 23, 2002 9:42 pm

Bill T,
What tracks are using it on, and what kind of settings are you using? Cheers, Doc.

Posted: Mon Jun 24, 2002 8:33 am

I have been toying around with the MB compressor in Wavelab 4.0 as well, but I am confused on a more basic level as to how to use a MB compressor. I understand the basic concepts behind how these work, compressing specific frequency bands differentially...but how do you determine where to set the crossovers, etc.

Anyway...anyone know of a good tutorial on MB compression???

Cheers!

Posted: Mon Jun 24, 2002 9:23 pm

I've been using this site for knowledge for quite some time. Sorry I haven't posted this sooner. Some of you may already know about this, but for those who don't....here ya go. Very Happy

http://www.digido.com/

I think this is a great informational site, packed with lots of tid-bits on everything from considering a DAW's ability to handle wordlengths(before you buy) to more efficient ways of mastering CD's.

Creation education, what's kooler that that?

Latrz,
O

Posted: Thu Jun 27, 2002 7:00 am

I played around with Wavelab not too long ago. It's a cool program, but I would have an issue spending that kind of money when I don't need much of what it does. I primarily used it for loudness maximizing and some EQ tweeking. For serious matering and CD prep, I'd send it out.
There's a local guy that's literally insane, but has a custom, hand-built console that sounds great!

Posted: Sun Jun 30, 2002 4:41 pm

Sorry to go off topic, but who is this guy that is crazy and built his own console? Any details? Cheers, Doc.

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2002 4:32 pm

The crazy mastering guy from St. Louis is Mark Spielberg. He's built his own mastering console, monitors, mic mods, and whatever else he can get his hands on.

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