Updated October 2026 · Vocal recording fixes
A compressor turns down the loud parts so quiet and loud words sit closer together. A common starting point for a vocal is a ratio of about 3:1 to 4:1, a medium attack, a fast to medium release and a threshold that gives roughly 3 to 6 dB of reduction on the loudest words. Adjust by ear.
| Setting | Starting point | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Ratio | 3:1 to 4:1 | How strongly the signal above the threshold is reduced |
| Threshold | to get 3–6 dB of reduction | The level where compression starts |
| Attack | medium (about 10–30 ms) | Slower lets the start of each word through |
| Release | fast to medium | How quickly the level returns |
These are starting points. The right settings depend on the voice, the take and the genre. If you are chasing heavy compression to fix a poor take, record it again.
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Often 3:1 to 4:1 as a start. Move up for a more controlled sound, down for a natural one.
About 3 to 6 dB on the loudest words is a common starting range.
Some mixers use two gentle ones instead of one heavy one. It is optional.
