How to know the peak value of my sample so I can compress li

Hi! I would really like to use the mpc 1000 compressor adequatly. I've been searching for methods on using it but found only the basics of compression.

I already know the basics, but what I'd like to know is how to have the peak value of the sample I want to compress before applying compression. ( So I can adjust the treshold ).

Also, if the master volume of my mpc is at -6 db , do I have to start compression below that value or am I way wrong and those two things aren't connected?

So thanks for reading this, any tips is useful.

Jonathan

Take a look at your waveform. The waves should be within the screen, the parts that are touching the bottom and top of the screen are the peaks. And if they are off the screen, then you're clipping. Capeesh?

I don't think compression is something you should be trying to do rigorously by number. It's not something you can just plug into a formula and get good results.
You just have to get the hang of it through experience or trial-and-error.

This is something I've recently done on the mpc 500. Maybe what I did will apply to your setup.

The trick I found was.... Use record mode

Set record mode to main and then you can see the peaks and valleys on the monitor. Flip back over to effect mode, make some adjustments on the compressor and then back to record mode to see how wide the dynamics are and how close to peaking you are.

I like to drive it till it starts distorting and then back it off to find the highest level.

Good luck!

just use your ears

Kaia wrote:just use your ears

The advice from Riggs is great and doesn't need any extra kit (ie plug ins and whatnot)

Yeah I know this is the best way but still to the noobs like me it's not easy listening the difference between goood and overcompressed. But hey, I'll keep at it till I get better!

When using the master level at -6, it means that the stereo outputs will be at -6 right? There is no link between this setting and applying compression?

jonathan wrote:Yeah I know this is the best way but still to the noobs like me it's not easy listening the difference between goood and overcompressed. But hey, I'll keep at it till I get better!

When using the master level at -6, it means that the stereo outputs will be at -6 right? There is no link between this setting and applying compression?

Shit sorry. I didn't mean the 'just use your ears' advice was the best. I quoted that because I was gonna call the dude a dick then Decided against it.

I know it's hard for newbs to hear the diff, shit I've been at it 2.5 years and still can't hear certain tings.

Ill Green speaks the truth as well.

Hey no probs!

watch this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkeJqtJGn0I