Editing Sound reinforcement system (section)

====Compressors====
[[File:Comp. rack (Supernatural).jpg|thumb|150px|A rack of electronic audio compressors]]
[[Dynamic range compression]] is designed to help the audio engineer to manage the dynamic range of audio signals. Prior to the invention of automatic compressors, audio engineers accomplished the same goal by "riding the faders", listening carefully to the mix and lowering the faders of any singer or instrument which was getting too loud. A compressor accomplishes this by reducing the gain of a signal that is above a defined level (the threshold) by a defined amount determined by the ratio setting. Most compressors available are designed to allow the operator to select a ratio within a range typically between 1:1 and 20:1, with some allowing settings of up to ∞:1. A compressor with high compression ratio is typically referred to as a [[limiter]]. The speed that the compressor adjusts the gain of the signal ([[Envelope (music)|attack and release]]) is typically adjustable as is the final output or ''make-up gain'' of the device.

Compressor applications vary widely. Some applications use limiters for component protection and gain structure control. Artistic signal manipulation using a compressor is a subjective technique widely utilized by mix engineers to improve clarity or to creatively alter the signal in relation to the program material. An example of artistic compression is the typical heavy compression used on the various components of a modern rock drum kit. The drums are processed to be perceived as sounding more punchy and full.

[[File:FOH Racks.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Effect processing rack-mounted units at the FOH position at an outdoor concert.]]