Let's jump right in, starting with the main categories of analog compressors.
The suggested applications here are only guidelines, based on how various compressors are typically used, but there's no saying that you can't go counter to them if it works for your music. Once you understand the strengths and weaknesses of different compressor types, it's a lot easier to know which one to choose in given situations. The aim of this article is to give you some clarity on the different compressor types and talk about how they're typically used. Because there are so many different compressor types, it can be confusing to decide which one to choose for a given situation. In this guide, we'll level out which compressors are which: VCA, FET, Optical, Tube and digital compressor plugins increase your threshold of compression knowledge!Ĭompression is hugely important when producing and engineering music, both for dynamics control and sound coloration. Learn the different types of compressors and when to use each one while mixing.