Logic Pro 9: Compressor Circuit Types

Posted by on Sep 17, 2012 in Sound

 

Today we will talk about probably one of the best software plugins, that Apple had generously bundled with a Logic Pro 9 software, Compressor. It is one of those plugins that can easily destroy  your sound, or if used with precaution, deliver you that unique character.

The main secret that can differ this plugin from hundreds of others are six egos, represented by emulations of  different types of hardware, that can be selected in “Circuit Emulation” drop menu. And since there are no official description of  those emulations,  let’s talk about them.

 

Platinum

or Logic Audio Platinum digital compressor.

Logic Audio Platinum Compressor

Logic Audio platinum compressor

PROS: Very versatile, good sounding digital compressor;

CONS:  -

GOOD FOR: Almost for any case;

 

ClassA_R

class A, VCA compressor 

Focusrite RED Series Stereo compressor

Well known Focusrite RED Series Compressor

 

PROS: Smooth with a lot of character;

CONS: -

GOOD FOR: Master bus

 

ClassA_U 

or variable μ / tube compressor

Fairchild 670

First type of compressors ever being used in audio industry. Fairchild 670 is a tube compressor.

PROS: Very warm, vintage tube sound

CONS: -

GOOD FOR: Vocals, Pads as well as strings

 

 

FET

or Field Effect Transistor

UREI 1176

Typical example of FET compressor is a UREI 1176 model.

PROS: Very fast attack and release times.

CONS: Cannot handle large amount of audio input.

GOOD FOR: Vocals in general as well as acoustic guitar and live drums;

 

 

VCA 

or Voltage Control Amplifier 

dbx 160

An example of VCA compressor is a dbx 160 model.

PROS: Very fast responce time ( reacts to a input signal very fast);

    Can handle very high sound input;

CONS: Kills some presence in hi-mids frequencies ;

GOOD FOR: Very big vocals, electric guitar, sharp sounds cases as percussion.

 

OPTO

or Optical Isolator

Teletronix LA2A

OPTO type compressor, famous Teletronix LA2A

PROS: Fatty natural sound;

CONS: -

GOOD FOR: Vocals (in combo with FET), Master bus

 

Audio Examples

 

As example I chose acoustic drums loop, and used same Attack (60ms) / Release (150ms) parameters for all examples. The only thing that I changed during experiment is “Circuit Type”.

In some cases the beat may sound chopped, but for demonstration propose it is okey ;)

 

As conclusion I have only one thing to say, experiment!  Try  all different types and combinations of compression on different inputs, and use your creativity.

Good luck!