Plugin interface — screenshot pending
Compressor

Compressor

Apple

Where to get itIncluded with Logic Pro. It is part of that DAW, not a separate download.apple.com

Compressor is a dynamic range processor that emulates several professional-level compressor circuits, tightening audio by reducing sounds exceeding a threshold while smoothing dynamics and increasing perceived loudness. It's one of the most versatile sound-shaping tools in mixing, suitable for individual tracks or overall mix processing.

Written from the manual and checked against it. How we check

Key Features

01Four circuit types: Platinum Digital, Studio VCA and FET, Classic VCA, and Vintage VCA, FET, and Opto
02Threshold, Ratio, Knee, Attack, and Release controls
03Input and Output Gain controls with peak indicators
04Auto Gain compensation at 0 dB or -12 dB
05Auto Release function for dynamic adjustment
06Integrated limiter with threshold control
07Distortion options: Soft, Hard, and Clip
08Side chain detection with Max/Sum and Peak/RMS modes
09Side chain filter with LP, BP, HP, ParEQ, and HS modes
10Wet/Dry mix control
11Gain Reduction meter and graph display

Things to Try

  • 01Use higher Attack values when compressing sounds like voices or instruments to preserve the initial attack transients and maintain tone definition
  • 02Set lower Attack values when maximizing overall mix level, as higher values often result in minimal compression
  • 03Use higher Release values to smooth out dynamic differences, or lower Release values to emphasize them
  • 04Apply soft knee compression by increasing the Knee parameter for smoother transitions near the threshold, rather than hard knee at 0 value
  • 05Route a drum channel as a side chain source to rhythmically change compression on guitar, synthesizer, or bass parts
Official Website↗User Manual↗

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Compressor by Apple | Plugin Library