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Effective Ways To Setup Parallel Compression In Your Mixes

Last updated: January 3, 2023
Written by Bradley J Simons
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Reading time: 1-2 minutes

Hey guys! Brad Simons here, and today I want to talk about parallel compression and a few ways to set it up in your mixes. It's a great technique that can really make your mixes come alive. Setting it up in an efficient manner allows you to really get creative with your mixes. So let's dive in and learn how to do that!

First, What Is Parallel Compression?

To put it simply, it's the blend of an uncompressed audio source with a compressed version of it.

What Will Parallel Compression Do For My Mixes?

Well, parallel compression typical brings more energy and punch to your mix, however it can easily go to far. But since you're blending the organic character of your audio with a compressed version of it, you will get the benefits of both. It's definitely worth doing!

How Can We Be Both Creative And Efficient With Parallel Compression?

Well, there are a few different ways. By building it into your template in various locations, you can easily audition different parallel compression approaches, whether it be on a group, on an individual instrument, or with a certain group of compressors.

Check out the full tutorial on how you can setup parallel compression with efficiency and creativity in mind.

Cheers!

- Bradley

Links to Equipment and Software Used

Juno nominated canadian musician, producer, and founder of Velveteen Music, Bradley J Simons

Bradley J Simons

Bradley is a Canadian musician, producer, and is the founder of Velveteen Music. His work has been nominated for 3 Juno Awards, and he has toured Canada and the US as a session guitarist. In addition to making music, Bradley also develops software for Velveteen.
Person tweaking eq settings on a Neve 1073 DPX at Velveteen Music's Edmonton recording studio

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