The human voice is one of the most dynamic and expressive sound sources you’ll ever record. Even a normal speaking voice has an approximate dynamic range of over 70 decibels. For your vocal tracks to hold their space in your mix, you will likely need to compress them – hopefully without sacrificing nuance and expressiveness. Enter the analog compressor.
Compression is fundamental in music production, especially when working with vocals. It allows you to control the dynamic range of a vocal performance, ensuring that softer parts are audible while preventing louder sections from overpowering the mix. A well-applied compression can make vocals sound more polished, professional, and consistent. It can also add character and depth, helping the vocals sit better in the overall mix. However, it’s essential to strike a balance – too much compression can result in an unnatural, squashed sound, while too little compression can lead to inconsistencies in volume.
From vintage classics to more modern analog devices, many analog compressors are available to meet your specific needs and preferences. Get ready to learn more about the best analog compressors for studio-quality vocals.
An analog compressor is a piece of audio equipment that uses analog circuitry to process audio signals. It typically consists of several controls and parameters that allow you to adjust the compression settings to suit your needs. We cover many of these further down in the article.
At its core, an analog compressor analyzes the incoming audio signal, automatically adjusting its output level based on the set parameters. It does this by reducing the gain of the signal when it exceeds a certain threshold. This helps control the dynamics of the vocals and adds a pleasing tonal character to the sound.
When it comes to vocal recordings, capturing the perfect performance is crucial. However, even the most talented singers can have variations in volume and intensity throughout a song.
This is where analog compression shines – reducing the dynamic range of an audio signal, ensuring that the louder parts are brought down in volume while the softer parts are boosted. Doing so helps control the dynamics of the vocals, resulting in a more even and polished sound.
But why is this important? Well, a well-controlled vocal performance is essential for a professional-sounding vocal recording. It allows the listener to fully engage with the lyrics and melody without being distracted by sudden volume changes. Additionally, analog compressors are known for giving vocals a distinct and professional studio-quality sound.
When using an analog compressor for vocals, it’s essential to understand the different controls and parameters that come with it. Each control has a specific function and can significantly affect the sound and performance of the vocals. Let’s look at some of the most common controls found on analog compressors.
Threshold: The threshold control determines the level at which the compressor starts to reduce the gain of the vocals. When the audio signal exceeds the set threshold, the compressor kicks in and reduces the volume. Setting the threshold correctly is crucial for achieving the desired compression amount without sacrificing the vocals’ natural dynamics. Look for a compressor with a wide range of threshold settings to give you flexibility in controlling the dynamics of your vocals. Set the threshold to around 4 to 6dB of gain reduction.
Ratio: The ratio control determines how much the compressor reduces the gain of the vocals when the threshold is exceeded. For example, a ratio of 4:1 means that for every 4 dB the signal exceeds the threshold, the output will only increase by 1 dB. Higher ratios result in more aggressive compression, while lower ratios provide a more transparent and subtle effect. Again, look for a compressor with a wide range of ratio settings to give you flexibility in controlling the dynamics of your vocals. A compression ratio of 2:1 is a good starting point for most vocals, but you can bump this up a few clicks if you need to control the dynamics or presence.
Attack: The attack control determines how quickly the compressor responds to the audio signal once it exceeds the threshold. A fast attack time can tame transients and provide more upfront and controlled vocals. A slower attack time allows more initial transients to pass through, resulting in a more natural and dynamic sound. You will need to experiment to find the right attack settings, as this is crucial to maintaining the natural dynamics of the vocals. For vocals, it’s recommended to set up the attack time fast. You can use the attack time to set the vocal further back in the mix or bring it more upfront.
Release: The release control determines how quickly the compressor stops reducing the gain of the vocals once the audio signal falls below the threshold. A fast release time can create a pumping effect and add excitement to the vocals, while a slower release time provides a smoother and more transparent compression. Once again, experiment to find the proper release settings to maintain the natural dynamics of the vocals. A release time between 500ms to 600ms is a good starting point for vocals.
Sidechain Filter: Some analog compressors offer a sidechain filter that allows you to shape the compression response based on specific frequency ranges. This can be particularly useful when dealing with vocals that have pronounced sibilance or low-end rumble.
Makeup-Gain: The make-up gain control allows you to compensate for the reduction in volume caused by the compressor. As the compressor reduces the gain of the vocals, it’s essential to boost the overall volume to maintain consistency. The make-up gain control allows you to do this effectively.
Additional Controls: Some compressors have additional controls such as mix knob, blend functions, and Overeasy mode. These features can provide more control over the overall sound and allow you to fine-tune the compression to your liking.
Experimentation is key. Try new things and have fun exploring all the controls.
Now that we’ve covered some of the most common controls found on analog compressors, let’s explore several of the best and most notable options on the market. These compressors are highly regarded for their sound quality, versatility, and performance and have been widely used by top producers and engineers in the industry. And fortunately for you, all of them are available at Access Analog. This means you can experiment with several devices without breaking the bank.
The Universal Audio LA-2A is a legendary analog compressor known for its smooth and transparent compression. It’s based on the original hardware from the 1960s and has been a staple in professional studios for decades.
The LA-2A provides a warm and vintage sound that works exceptionally well on vocals, adding a touch of analog magic to your recordings. This may be the best option if you are aiming for genuine vintage warmth and analog coloration. This compressor encourages you to apply generous amounts of compression while maintaining a smooth sound that is almost impossible to find in digital emulations.
The Empirical Labs Distressor is a versatile analog compressor that can go from subtle and transparent to aggressive and colorful. It offers a wide range of compression options and features unique controls like the “Distortion” and “British Mode” settings that can add character and saturation to the vocals.
Featuring built-in harmonic enhancement, you can add 2nd- or 3rd-order harmonic distortion to your signal to emulate vintage tape saturation and tube mojo. Not only does it sound sweet, but gentle harmonic distortion can also help your vocals remain clear and present in a dense mix.
The Avalon VT-737sp Tube Channel Strip is a versatile and powerful audio processor that combines a tube preamp, an opto-compressor, and a four-band EQ in a single rack unit.
It’s great at capturing every subtle vocal detail. The built-in EQ and compressor let you shape the perfect vocal sound, ready to take center stage in your mix.
The Universal Audio 1176 is a classic, vintage-style compressor that is highly sought after by professional audio engineers.
With its lightning-fast attack time, smooth gain reduction, and versatile range of compression ratios, it is one of the most popular analog devices in the industry.
The SSL XLogic G Compressor is based on the classic console compressor found in SSL mixing consoles. It is known for its punchy and in-your-face compression, making it ideal for vocals that need to cut through the mix.
The SSL Bus Compressor adds depth and character to the vocals, giving them a polished and professional sound. If you’re looking for a compressor that brings out the details and enhances the natural characteristics of your vocals, this is a great option.
The Tube-Tech CL 1B is a tube-based analog compressor that offers smooth and warm compression. It’s known for its musical and transparent sound, making it a popular choice for vocals.
The CL 1B provides precise control over the compression settings and has a unique ability to add depth and dimension to the vocals even while applying high amounts of compression.
The Manley Variable Mu is a tube-based compressor that offers a classic and versatile sound. Known for its sweet-sounding color courtesy of all tube circuitry, it provides smooth and transparent compression, making it ideal for vocals that require a gentle touch.
Manley’s best selling modern day masterpiece gives you control of your sound like nothing else.
The dbx 165A OverEasy compressor/limiter gives you complete control of the compression and limiting characteristics. This unit is a solid-state compressor that provides punchy and aggressive compression. It’s known for its fast attack time and can add excitement and energy to the vocals.
This is a classic design that has extensive applications for delicate situations where the compressor/ limiter must be very unobtrusive in use.
There are many other analog compressors available that can deliver excellent results on vocals. However, the ones we’ve covered are some of the most notable and frequently used by mixing and mastering professionals. And we think very highly of them as well!
When it comes to utilizing analog compressors effectively in vocal recordings, having a few tips up your sleeve can make a world of difference. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these suggestions will help you optimize the use of analog compressors.
Start with Conservative Settings: It’s easy to get carried away with compression, especially when working with analog gear. When using an analog compressor on vocals, it’s essential to start with conservative settings and gradually increase the compression until you achieve the desired effect. This will help you maintain the natural dynamics of the vocals and avoid over-compression.
Experiment with Different Settings: Feel free to experiment with different settings on your analog compressor. Adjusting the attack, release, ratio, and threshold can drastically change the sound and feel of the vocals. Take the time to explore the different possibilities and find the settings that best complement the song. Each vocal performance is unique, and finding the right combination of settings can make a significant difference in the overall sound. Pay attention to the behavior of the analog compressor you are using – some will begin to saturate or distort at certain settings, while others will remain clean at almost any setting.
Use Parallel Compression: Parallel compression is a technique where you blend a heavily compressed signal with the dry uncompressed signal. This can help retain the vocals’ natural dynamics while adding weight and impact to the sound. Experiment with different blend ratios to perfectly balance transparency and aggressiveness. This technique can add depth and impact to vocals while maintaining the natural dynamics. One great thing about the Analog Matrix plugin is there is a built-in wet/dry blend knob for easy parallel compression with any compressor.
Listen in Context: When using an analog compressor on vocals, listening to the vocals in the context of the entire mix is essential. Pay attention to how the vocals interact with other elements and adjust accordingly. The goal is to achieve a balanced and cohesive mix where the vocals sit well and cut through when necessary. Avoid long periods of listening to the vocal by itself in solo mode. If you are using two buss compression on the overall mix, be careful with how the vocal interacts with it.
Try Multiple Compressors in Series: Using multiple compressors in a series can help you achieve a more nuanced and natural sound. By using clip gain to ensure that quiet and loud passages are more even in level, compression will be applied more evenly throughout the song. This will avoid the audible squeezing and pumping that compressors can sometimes impart onto extremely dynamic signals, vocals included. Try pairing a fast compressor like an 1176 or Distressor with something slower like an LA2A.
When searching for the best analog compressors for studio-quality vocals, it is crucial to consider your musical style and the specific sound you desire. The best vocal compressor is the one that empowers you to shape your vocalist’s track precisely as you envision. Remember to thoroughly assess all the controls and parameters of an analog compressor, explore various settings through experimentation, and rely on your ears to guide your selection. The appropriate analog compressor can significantly elevate the quality and impact of your vocal recordings.
Nevertheless, it’s essential to recognize that even the finest hardware vocal compressors are merely one component of a recording chain. If the other elements in the chain are not up to par, a hardware compressor should not be expected to work as a magical solution. It’s good to use an equalizer before compressing to remove any frequencies that may be overwhelming, like boomy lows, overly pronounced mid-range, or harsh high frequencies. A good De-esser can be essential for a smooth vocal sound without harsh sibilance.
Ultimately, the perfect analog compressor is the one that enriches your vocal recordings, adds depth and character, and assists you in achieving the desired sound. Take your time, explore different gear and options, and let your creativity guide you. By doing so, you will undoubtedly provide an exceptional listening experience for your audience.
