How do you avoid over-compression and distortion in TV audio production?

1 What is compression and why use it?

Compression is a process that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal. Dynamic range is the difference between the loudest and the quietest parts of a sound. Compression can help you balance the levels of different sounds, make your audio more consistent and loud, and enhance the impact and presence of your sound. Compression is often used for vocals, music, sound effects, and dialogues in TV production.

2 How to set up a compressor

A compressor has four main parameters: threshold, ratio, attack, and release. The threshold is the level above which the compressor starts to reduce the signal. The ratio is how much the signal is reduced once it crosses the threshold. The attack is how fast the compressor reacts to the signal. The release is how long the compressor takes to return to normal after the signal drops below the threshold. To set up a compressor, you need to adjust these parameters according to the type and purpose of your sound. For example, a low threshold and a high ratio can create a loud and punchy sound, while a high threshold and a low ratio can create a subtle and smooth sound.

3 How to avoid over-compression

Over-compression is when you apply too much compression to your sound, resulting in a loss of dynamic range, naturalness, and detail. Over-compression can make your sound flat, dull, noisy, or distorted. To avoid over-compression, you need to use your ears and meters to monitor your sound. You should not compress your sound more than necessary, and you should leave some headroom for peaks and transients. You should also use different types and settings of compression for different sounds, and avoid applying compression to the whole mix unless you have a good reason.

4 What is distortion and why avoid it?

Distortion is when your sound becomes distorted or clipped due to excessive levels or processing. Distortion can cause your sound to sound harsh, unpleasant, or unintelligible. Distortion can damage your speakers, your ears, and your reputation. You should avoid distortion at all costs in TV production, unless you are using it as a creative effect.

5 How to prevent distortion

To prevent distortion, you need to control your levels and your processing throughout your audio chain. You should always check your input and output levels, and make sure they are not too high or too low. You should also avoid using too much gain, EQ, or compression on your sound, as they can introduce distortion or noise. You should also use limiters, clippers, or soft-clippers to protect your sound from clipping or oversaturation.

6 How to use compression and distortion creatively

Compression and distortion are not always bad. They can also be used creatively to enhance or transform your sound. For example, you can use compression to create a sense of intimacy, energy, or aggression in your sound. You can also use distortion to create a sense of warmth, grit, or character in your sound. However, you should always use compression and distortion with care and moderation, and make sure they serve your artistic vision and your audience's expectations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?