compressing audio

[Jeff Carpenter]

Use either “EXPORT > COMPRESSOR” or export to a quicktime file and then import that into iTunes which you can use to compress.

Which you use depends more on what kind of file you want to compress to and which program you find easier to use. For some things (like AC3 audio) you’ll have to use compressor, but if you want to make an MP3 or AAC you may find you like iTunes better for that task.

[Thaxter Clavemarlton]

Do you mean audio “LEVEL-compression” or compressing the audio FILES into another format?

Big difference, similar name.

[Rob Forsythe]

Well, Dave and Thax are on the same page.

If you want to compress the levels…

Add the Compressor/Limiter Audio Filter to a clip and click it into the viewer “Filters” window.

As a starting point, adjust the Settings to my “all 2’s” formula:

Threshold (db) -20
Ratio 2
Attack Time 20
Release Time 200
Preserve Volume CHECKED (very important!)

Now click the viewer to display the actual audio track and set the Level to “2” or “3.”

Now, when you play the track it should be at a “more consistent” level.

You can play with my “all 2’s” formula if you want, but its a good starting point for compressing the levels without a lot of compressor “pumping.”
The “Threshold” setting will affect the clip the most… as you slide left, it brings more of the low levels UP.
The actual volume adjustment now comes from the “Level” slider on the actual audio track (and you can key-frame that if you want.)