wuts the difference
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Posted on Dec 19, 2006 02:07 pm
Hydrial69
Member Since: Dec 11, 2006
ok now im just getting confused
whats the diff between a compressor and a preamp?
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PhilCPC WarriorMember
Since: Dec 28, 2005
Dec 19, 2006 02:47 pm Big difference dude. A compressor allows you to manipulate the dynamic range within a signal, the preamp on the otherhand just boosts the whole signal.
For example, a compressor would be used if there is too great a difference between the quiter and louder passages in a song. The compressor might be used to reduce the overall dynamic range so that the quieter parts of a signal don't get lost in the mix. They get boosted while the louder parts stay the same.
A Preamp is usually used in situations where the signal strength of say a guitar being plugged into an audio interface is not sufficient to get a good recording. The preamp boosts that whole signal...evenly. After that, you might still need compression to reduce the dynamic range.
Dec 19, 2006 04:25 pm so ultimatly if i could only buy one i would buy a compressor?
TadpuiI am not a crook's headMember
Since: Mar 14, 2003
Dec 19, 2006 04:51 pm That depends on the rest of your setup. If you plan on plugging a bass, guitar, or microphone into your recording device, you'll need a preamp. Some recording devices come equipped with preamps built in (called onboard preamps).
You can get free software compressor VST plugins that will do a pretty good job of taming the dynamics of recorded tracks or mixed projects. A hardware compressor is a nice-to-have item, but a preamp is essential for getting your sound signal amplified enough to record.
Both of these devices are very important for a recording setup, so knowing what each one does will be a huge first step for you in learning the ropes of home recording.
We're here to help!
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Dec 19, 2006 04:56 pm they serve two different functions.
preamp boosts very low microphone level signal up to a level that audio components can deal with.
a compressor reigns in highly dynamic signals.
It isn't an either /or question. That's kinda like asking should you get a guitar cord, or a mic stand.
A preamp is a necessary component, bringing your low mic level signal up to a level that audio components can work with.
Compressor is not necessary, but very handy, both in hardware and software form.
hope that helps
pjkPrince CZAR-mingMember
Since: Apr 08, 2004
Dec 19, 2006 04:59 pm oop, tad beat me to it.
what he said
TadpuiI am not a crook's headMember
Since: Mar 14, 2003
Dec 19, 2006 05:01 pm Mental hi-five pjk. Simul-posts rule. :D
