What is an easy way to apply just a little compression?

mkamoski · March 31, 2014, 10:51pm

Dear Audacity Experts –

I am using the default settings (shown below) and it is just too much compression for my tastes.

I would want about 1/2 that amount of compression; but, I do not know how to adjust the settings in the compressor window.

Can you suggest something quick and easy for a newbie who does NOT want it perfect, just good?

http://mkamoski1.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/post-audacity-compression-default-2014-03-31.jpg?w=515

Please advise.

Thanks.

– Mark Kamoski

steve · March 31, 2014, 11:04pm

Try turning off “make-up gain” and turn down “Ratio” to minimum (1.5:1).

I’m a bit surprised that you find your current settings too much, because that is already quite a gentle setting.
If the settings that I’ve suggested above are still too much, I think we’ll need to hear the audio that you are working with, and a description of what you are trying to achieve. Instructions for posting audio samples to the forum are here: https://forum.audacityteam.org/t/how-to-post-an-audio-sample/29851/1