Compressors in PT

[Wango]

I'm interested in some opinions about compressors in PT.
I've been using the Digirack compressor/limiter that comes with PT.

I use it for vocals, guitars and bass.

I know some people like the Joe Meek.

Is there a noticable difference between the Digirack comp and others like Joe Meek?

Thanks in advance.

[BradLyons]

Compressors are very much like ice cream flavors..... Most of the time I prefer Mint Chocolate Chip, but sometimes I'd rather have Cookies'n'Cream, but there are times that chocolate or just plain vanilla is better. My point is there really is NO ONE COMPRESSOR that will always be the best way to go. I have an insane list of TDM plugins and my typical go-to is the Waves Vintage Series compressor for drums and guitars, but there are times I'll use the JJP Fairchild compressors. There are times where Digi's Smack plugin or the 1176 plugin. etc.

IMHO, I think the best bang for the buck if you're just looking at compressors is the McDSP COMPRESSOR BANK plugins....killer sound, low CPU useage for LE users, it covers a few different types of compressors, and just sound great! Oh they are not that expensive, either.

[lwilliam]

Originally Posted by Wango

I'm interested in some opinions about compressors in PT.
I've been using the Digirack compressor/limiter that comes with PT.

I use it for vocals, guitars and bass.

I know some people like the Joe Meek.

Is there a noticable difference between the Digirack comp and others like Joe Meek?

Thanks in advance.

Yes - BIG difference. Have you tried both on the same track? You should hear a noticeable difference. They're like night and day.

The Digirack III is fairly clean and the Joe Meek is very colored even at minimal compression. Each has it's uses.

[wolfskin]

Originally Posted by BradLyons

Compressors are very much like ice cream flavors.....

That's a very good analogy...

If you're just looking to 'level out' a track with a light touch of compression, the Digirack stock plug-in is just fine and very transparent.

For less subtle compression, you'll hear a very noticable difference between each 'flavor'....

[Wango]

Hey thanks for the feedback, guys, very helpful.

I do use compressors only to level out volumes atm, but know that some people use them to add color to the tracks.

I'll try a few and see if they add flavor that I like.

Thanks again!

- Wango