Editing Dynamic range compression (section)

=== Music production ===
[[File:Behringer CD400 Compressor 8198.jpg|thumb|An inexpensive guitar compressor]]
Compression is often used in music production to make instruments more consistent in dynamic range, so that they "sit" more nicely in the mix with the other instruments (neither disappear during short periods of time, nor overpower the other instruments during short periods).<ref name=broadcastbridge/> Vocal performances in [[rock and roll|rock music]] or [[pop music]] are compressed for the same reason. 

Compression can also be used on instrument sounds to create effects not primarily focused on stabilizing the volume. For instance, drum and cymbal sounds tend to decay quickly, but a compressor can make the sound appear to have a more sustained tail.  Guitar sounds are often compressed to produce a fuller, more sustained sound.

Most devices capable of compressing audio dynamics can also be used to reduce the volume of one audio source when another audio source reaches a certain level; this is called [[Dynamic range compression#Side-chaining|side-chaining]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sageaudio.com/blog/pre-mastering-tips/sidechaining.php|title=What is Sidechaining|work=Sage Audio|access-date=12 May 2020}}</ref> In [[electronic dance music]], side-chaining is often used on [[bassline]]s, controlled by the kick drum or a similar percussive trigger, to prevent the two from conflicting, and provide a pulsating, rhythmic dynamic to the sound.