> Multiband compression is one of the finest tools available in the digital world. Whereas once we had simple compressors, today we get to have several – one for every band of the frequency spectrum.
Multiband compressors are often used in mastering, and shine when placed on a drum bus. Here, the broad range of different frequencies on display, plus their different transient profiles, makes multiband dynamics processing an obvious, effective choice.
The first step in using a multiband compressor is often in fine-tuning the bands you have available. Solo a single band and listen as you adjust its crossover frequency (or crossover frequencies). What tonal and transient elements are occurring in this range of frequencies? Set your crossover frequencies at a point where a certain function is fulfilled – weighty and powerful bass in the lows, or high-end sheen in the highs, say.
WHEREAS ONCE WE HAD SIMPLE COMPRESSORS, TODAY WE GET ONE FOR EVERY BAND OF THE FREQUENCY SPECTRUM