Parallel Compression Practice (New York Compression)

Parallel compression, also known as “New York Compression”, is an audio processing technique that allows an uncompressed audio signal to be combined with a heavily compressed version of the same signal. The goal is to retain the dynamics and natural character of the original audio while adding body and density through the compressed signal. This method provides a more transparent and musical compression compared to direct compression.

Benefits of Parallel Compression:

• Greater Dynamic Control: Adds density and consistency without sacrificing natural dynamics.
• Transparency: Maintains the clarity and detail of the original audio.
• Flexibility: Allows you to adjust the balance between the original and compressed signal to achieve the desired sound.
• Body and Presence: Adds impact and weight to the mix without sounding flattened.

Step-by-Step to Apply Parallel Compression:

1. Signal Path:
   1. On a Console: Sends the original signal to an external compressor and then mixes the compressed signal back to the original signal.
   2. In a DAW: Duplicate the track you want to compress in parallel or send the original track to an aux bus.
2. Compressor Settings:
   1. Makeup Gain: Increase the MakeupGain to ensure that the compressed signal is at a level suitable for mixing with the original signal.
   2. Release: Uses a medium release time (40-80 ms) to maintain energy and avoid excessive pumping.
   3. Attack: Set a fast attack (5-15 ms) to quickly capture transients.
   4. Threshold: Sets the threshold for the compressor to act significantly on the signal. Compression should be evident.
   5. Ratio: Use a high ratio (8:1, 10:1 or even higher) for aggressive compression.
3. Signal Mixing:
   1. Automation: Consider automating the level of the compressed signal to suit different sections of the song.
   2. Balance: Mix the compressed signal with the original signal. Start with the compressed signal at a low volume and slowly increase until you achieve the desired balance.
4. Fine-Tuning:
   1. Fine-Tuning: Adjusts the compressor parameters and compressed signal level as needed.
   2. A/B Testing: Toggle between the signal with and without parallel compression to ensure that the technique is improving the mix.

Become an expert in compression with the recommended book “ Compression in Music Production” (click on the image to go to the link):

Common Applications for Parallel Compression

1. Drum Bus:
   1. Drum Bus: Apply parallel compression to the entire drum bus to cohere and punch up the entire drum mix.
   2. Overheads and Room Mics: Adds ambience and cohesion to the drum mix.
   3. Kick and Snare: Adds impact and presence without losing the natural character.
2. Vocals:
   1. Backing Vocals: Provides a richer and denser texture to the backing vocals.
   2. Lead Vocal: Adds body and presence to the vocal without sounding squashed.
3. Bass:
   1. Bass Guitar: Maintain clarity and definition of notes while adding sustain and consistency.
4. Guitars:
   1. Lead: Maintain clarity of individual notes while adding sustain and weight.
   2. Rhythm: Add thickness and body to rhythm guitars without losing the initial transients.

Example Setup in a DAW.

1. Send to Bus:
   1. Inserts a compressor on the aux bus.
   2. Send the drum track to an aux bus.
2. Configure the Compressor:
   1. Makeup Gain: Adjusts for proper level.
   2. Release: 60 ms.
   3. Attack: 10 ms.
   4. Threshold: Adjusts for strong compression.
   5. Ratio: 10:1.
3. Signal Mix:
   1. Raises the fader of the compressed bus until it mixes well with the original signal, adding the desired punch and body.

Parallel compression is a powerful and versatile technique that allows you to enhance the mix without sacrificing the naturalness and dynamics of the original audio. By combining an uncompressed signal with a heavily compressed version, results can be achieved that add body, presence and cohesion to the mix. This technique is widely used in modern production and is essential for any audio engineer who wants a professional, polished sound.