Compression Bootcamp and FabFilter Pro-C 2 Explained

FabFilter plugin bundle is essential set of tools for Mixing and Mastering any kind of music. And as for today Pro-C 2 is the most advanced compressor that exists in the VST/AU plugin format.

In this 60 min Masterclass we are going to cover Compression Fundamentals - explain analog and digital compressor differences, main compressor parameters such as Attack, Release, Ratio, Threshold, Make-up gain etc.

Then we are going to review all the controls of FabFilter Pro-C2 and take a look at the examples of compression, sidechain compression and parallel compression based on various elements in the mix: guitars, bass, kick drum etc. Pro-C 2 is very versilite compressor that can be applied on different stages - production, mixing and mastering.

When it comes to compression when we talk about compressors - we have two types of compressors: musical compressors (vintage: LA-2, 1176) and technical digital compressors (Pro-C2).

FabFilter Pro-C2 is the best digital compressor that is available today.

Its the most intelligently designed and it is cleanest sounding.

The difference is Musical Compressions are usually modeled after classic analog gear and they add a little saturation to the sound. Vintage compressors can miss controls like no attack and release or no ratio.

Musical and Technical compressors are used in serial mode: musical compressor comes first and technical comes second.

Pro-C 2 in our terminology is technical compressor (though you also get musical results and there are multiple vintage modes). FabFilter Pro-C 2 is downward compressor. Which means when the signal exceeds the threshold the compressor turns entire signal down. If you are looking for upward compression or multiband options - FabFilter has Pro-MB plugin which is another amazing dynamics tool.

Though no previous experience in required - even advanced producers will find new information watching this course. Feel free to skip second video if you're already familiar with compression foundations.