What do threshold and ratio mean on a compressor?

What do threshold and ratio mean on a compressor?

Threshold sets the level above which a compressor starts reducing gain. Ratio describes how strongly levels above that point are controlled. Attack and release shape the response over time. These settings influence the feel of the performance as well as its peaks.

Try this workflow

1. Start with a moderate ratio and no added makeup gain.
2. Lower threshold gradually while listening to the loud phrases.
3. Adjust output gain only after deciding whether the dynamics improved.

What to check before you finish

Watch for pumping, flattened accents and noisy breaths becoming too obvious. The same settings will behave differently on different input levels, so a borrowed threshold is only a starting point.

A practical example

For a vocal with occasional loud phrases, begin around a modest ratio such as two-to-one, then adjust threshold while listening. The actual amount of control depends on the input. If every breath becomes distracting after makeup gain, ease back on compression or gain rather than assuming more control automatically means a better voice.

More questions

Is a higher ratio always better?

No. Strong compression can remove expressive dynamics and make the sound feel smaller.

Can I copy a threshold from another recording?

You can use it as a starting point, but different input levels mean it may compress much more or less. Recheck it on your own file.