Back to Home

Professional Compressor Demo

Accurate compressor with mathematical dynamics processing

About Professional Compression

A compressor reduces dynamic range by applying gain reduction above a threshold. This demo implements accurate mathematical models including proper ratio calculations, soft/hard knee curves, exponential attack/release envelopes, and makeup gain compensation.

Mathematical Parameters:

  • Threshold: Compression starts above this level
  • Ratio: Input:Output level relationship (4:1, 8:1)
  • Attack: Exponential gain reduction onset
  • Release: Exponential gain reduction recovery
  • Knee: Soft (curved) vs Hard (linear) transition
  • Makeup Gain: Post-compression level restoration

Implementation Features:

  • Accurate compression ratio: Output = Threshold + (Input-Threshold)/Ratio
  • Exponential envelope: y(t) = target + (current-target)×e^(-t/τ)
  • Soft knee curves with smooth transitions
  • Proper dB scale gain reduction metering
  • Real-time transfer function visualization
  • Musical dynamics simulation

Professional Compressor Plugin Interface

Input Signal

-40-200
−∞dB
75% (-2.5dB)

PRECISION COMPRESSOR

IDLE
Ratio: 4:1 | GR: 0.0dB
-20 dB
4:1
5 ms
100 ms
0 dB
3 dB
0.0dB
Input Level (dB)Output Level (dB)
Input vs Output Relationship
Hard Knee | 4:1 Ratio

Output Signal

-40-200
−∞dB
Dynamic Range Reduced
Makeup: +3dB

Professional Implementation Notes

Ratio Selection

2:1-3:1 for gentle leveling (vocals, mix bus). 4:1-8:1 for moderate control (drums, bass). 10:1+ approaches limiting for peak control.

Envelope Timing

Fast attack (0.1-5ms) catches transients but may reduce punch. Slow attack (10-30ms) preserves initial impact. Release should match musical phrasing.

Knee Characteristics

Hard knee for obvious compression effects. Soft knee (2-10dB) for transparent, musical compression. Adjust makeup gain to compensate level loss.