> Step by step

Pro technique: parallel compression

1

Route the signal you want to process to a new buss, so there are two channels sending the same thing to the output, and solo the new buss. Now compress the hell out it! 3

Pull the fader right down to 0 and then un-solo it, so you’re listening to the original, uncompressed channel again. 2

Use very fast attack times, high ratios, and a nice low threshold. You’ll end up with something that sounds very flat, very squashed and unnatural – but has lots of compressed character. Look out as vintage emulations may add distortion – or maybe this will sound good! 4

Now gradually lift the fader for the heavily over-compressed signal and blend as much as you like of the heavily compressed version back into the mix. Make sure you have plugin delay compensation switched on to avoid any problems with latency.