Music producers guide to
Compression


If you're into producing synthwave, dreamwave, or outrun music, I've compiled a list of the most popular free and paid VSTs and essential resources, patches and libraries for your synthwave retro sound.

Drums Bass Synth Guitars Vocals Master

Drum Compression

Proper compression is key to professional sounding drums. With the right compressor you can not only control dynamics but shape transients, tighten your kit or add perfect punch. However, it is important to choose the right compressor for the job, with a fast-acting attack and program-dependant release.

You can use the following values as a starting point and tweak from there. Keep in mind every sound source is different and unique. Always apply your ears.

Ratio Gain Reduction Attack Release
Kick 4:1 - 8:1 4 - 10 db 5 - 15 ms 50 - 200 ms
Snare 4:1 - 8:1 4 - 10 db 3 - 15 ms 50 - 300 ms
Toms 4:1 - 8:1 4 - 10 db 8 - 15 ms 100 - 300 ms
Overhead 2:1 - 4:1 2 - 10 db 1 - 30 ms 250 - 1000 ms
Room 4:1 - 16:1 2 - 20 db 1 - 3 ms 50 - 1000 ms
Drum Bus 2:1 - 8:1 4 - 10 db 5 - 10 ms 50 - 500 ms