Editing Dynamic range compression (section)

== Multiband compression == <!-- [[Multiband compression]] redirects here -->

Multiband compressors can act differently on different frequency bands. The advantage of multiband compression over full-bandwidth compression is that problems related to a specific frequency range can be fixed without unnecessary compression in the other, unrelated frequencies. The downside is that frequency-specific compression is more complex and requires more processing capacity than full-bandwidth compression and can introduce phase issues.<ref>{{citation |url=https://www.waves.com/1lib/pdf/plugins/linear-phase-multiband-compressor.pdf |title=Waves – Linear-Phase MultiBand Software Audio Processor Users Guide |page=3 |access-date=2021-11-08}}</ref>

Multiband compressors work by first splitting the signal through some number of [[band-pass filters]], [[audio crossover|crossover filters]] or [[filter bank]]s. Each split signal then passes through its own compressor and is independently adjustable for threshold, ratio, attack, and release. The signals are then recombined and an additional limiting circuit may be employed to ensure that the combined signals do not create unwanted peak levels.

In music production, multiband compressors are primarily an [[audio mastering]] tool, but their inclusion in [[digital audio workstation]] plug-in sets is increasing their use among mix engineers. 
The TC Electronic Finalizer included a three band compressor and was a popular [[audio mastering]] tool around year 2000.<ref>{{citation |url=https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/tc-electronic-finalizer-96k |title=TC Electronic Finalizer 96K |access-date=2023-12-29}}</ref>   

On-air signal chains of [[radio station]]s commonly use multiband compressors to increase [[loudness]] while avoiding [[overmodulation]]. Having a louder sound is often considered an advantage in commercial broadcasting.