Descript's Compressor effect allows you to smooth out your projects' volume levels, so they're ready for publication. Compression reduces the dynamic range between the loudest and quietest parts of an audio layer. This effect comes with several presets to choose from, so you can try out different settings to get the desired result you're looking for. You can apply the effect from the Audio Effects section of the Layer panel.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
|
Threshold
|
The level your audio has to reach before compression is applied. |
|
Ratio |
The amount of compression applied to the signal. For example, if the ratio is set for 3.0, for every 3 dB (decibels) of signal above the Threshold, the Compressor will allow 1 dB to pass through. |
|
Attack
|
How quickly the compressor starts to work (in seconds). |
|
Release
|
How quickly the compressor stops working after the signal drops below the Threshold. |
|
Knee |
Sets how the compressor reacts to signals once the Threshold is passed. "Hard Knee" (the slider is toward the left / 0.0 side) means it clamps down on the signal immediately. For example a setting of 0.0 is like a light switch - it's either on, or off once it passes the Threshold. "Soft Knee" (slider moves toward the right side) means the compression is applied and removed more gently as the signal approaches the Threshold point. This is sort of like how a light switch dimmer gradually increases to / decreases from full brightness. Soft knee settings help smooth the compression potentially resulting in a more transparent effect. |
|
Input
|
A visual representation of the signal being received by the Compressor. |
|
Reduction
|
A visual representation of the compression applied to the signal. |