This guide explains how to use EQ and audio compression with the Roland TD-50 V-Drums.
Equalization and audio compression are methods for balancing the frequency content and dynamics of sound which we’ll explore in this guide.
Used creatively or scientifically, EQ and compression can dramatically transform sound.
When used subtly, EQ and compression can help give the final polish to sounds.
Let’s begin with using EQ and then explore how to use compression with the TD-50.
What is EQ?
Equalization involves adjusting volume levels of specific frequencies in order to modify the tonal colour of sound.
In order to improve the clarity and audibility of sounds, EQ has been used in nearly every music mix since the very early days of sound recording.
EQ comes in many hardware and software configurations, with the most common being:
- High and low-cut filters for reducing hiss and rumble.
- Shelving filters for boosting or cutting all frequencies above or below certain values.
- Peaking or Parametric EQ that allow surgical adjustment of specific frequencies over a narrow bandwidth, via their unique ‘Q’ or ‘quality’ control.
The TD-50 features a three-band semi-parametric EQ per pad for shaping individual kit instruments.
The TD-50 also has a four-band semi-parametric master EQ over the entire kit, for polishing and mastering the total kit sound.
Contributed by Simon Ayton for Roland Corporation Australia
[MIXER] | [PAGE DOWN x 1] (PAD EQ) | [R1] (LO GAIN) | [R2] (MID GAIN) | [R2] (HI GAIN) | [F4] (ON)
What is audio compression and how compressors work.
Now let’s look at how to use audio compression with the TD-50.
The TD-50 compressors were designed specifically for percussive sounds are offer useful adjustments to their dynamics.
Firstly, let’s make sure we understand exactly what compressors do so we can best apply them.
Audio compression is used to reduce dynamic range, to improve audibility and enhance the perceived average volume, power and impact of sounds.
Audio compression is a method for controlling the dynamics of sound.
Compressors began as tools for overcoming the limited dynamic range and noise floor of early tape recorders.
Along with EQs, compressors have become widely exploited tools for sound shaping.
Different types of compressors are used on drums extensively throughout the recording and mixing process. The creative use of compression on drums has become an art form all of its own.
The TD-50 features single-band compressors for every pad sound, as well as a multi-band master compressor which can be applied over the entire kit.
To eliminate confusion, common audio compressor settings are explained here as simply as possible.
The main adjustments for compressors are:
- THRESHOLD
- RATIO
- ATTACK
- RELEASE
- GAIN
Compression Threshold
The threshold determines the volume level at which the compressor starts to act on the incoming signal.
When the input volume is above the set Threshold level, the compressor begins to work.
A threshold set to maximum will not allow any compression to occur.
Setting the threshold to minimum will allow any input signal to be compressed.
Compression Ratio
The compression ratio determines by what factor the output level is reduced once the input signal exceeds the Threshold.
We can “squash” our signal quite dramatically by increasing the Ratio causing gain reduction.
If we have an input signal that is 4 decibels over the Threshold at a Ratio of 4:1, the output will be 1 decibel greater above the Threshold volume.
Tip: Compressors with ratios above 20:1 are known as limiters, as they hardly allow any signal to exceed the Threshold.
Compressors with negative ratios are known as expanders which increase dynamics.
Compressor Attack Time
Attack controls how quickly the compressor kicks in and starts to work, once the input signal has exceeded the threshold.
Once the input exceeds the signal level set by the threshold, we can choose to have the compressor act immediately or later.
For more aggressive or punchier sounds, long or slow attack times allow the initial sound transients to pass through first.
The initial transient also has the effect of making the sound more upfront and immediate.
Slower or shorter attack times soften the blow faster and effectively push the sound back into the listening space.
Compressor Release Time
Release time determines the time it takes the compressor to return to its pre-compression state, once the level drops below the threshold.
The longer the Release Time, the longer the compressor acts on the sound.
Compression stops being effective once the level drops again below the threshold.
Compressor Gain Control
“Makeup gain” allows us to increase or decrease the volume of the compressed signal to account for any average loss of level from the compression.
This volume adjustment is useful because contrary to common belief, compression reduces the dynamics of a sound and as such, it makes a sound smaller – not larger.
Subtle, with more bite: Slow Attack | Fast Release | Ratio 3:1
For more of a controlled sound: Medium-fast Attack | Medium Release | Ratio 5:1
A savage squash, but still with snap: Fast-medium Attack | Medium Release | Ratio 20:1Use the TYPE setting for ready-made settings for the drum type.
Multi-Band Compression
Multi-band or ‘split-band’ compressors are often used in the final mastering process. They allow independent compression of high and low frequencies, affording greater control.
The TD-50 compressor also provides a ‘Knee’ for control of how hard or soft the compressor acts.
As a useful starting point, try the following settings.
[MIXER] | [PAGE DOWN X4] | MASTER COMP
Type: 2 BAND HARD COMP.
Split Freq: 120Hz.
LO:
Threshold -5.
Gain: +5.5.
Attack: 5.
Release: 70.
Ratio 16:1.
Knee: Soft1.
HI:
Threshold -8.
Gain: +5.5.
Attack: 17.
Release: 40.
Ratio 16:1.
Knee: Soft1.
Final Word: Compression Just Doesn’t Add Up!
Compression has a multiplying effect on signals, rather than an additive one.
Each subsequent compression stage multiplies the previous one.
Compressing a drum sound by 3:1 using the pad compressor and then compressing it again using the master compressor by a factor of 5:1 gives a total compression ratio of 15:1 and not 8:1 as is often thought!
Rather than adding together, consecutive compression ratios actually multiply!
So be aware of this fact, or you will find your drum sounds becoming squashed and lifeless by the time they make it to listener’s ears.
When these already heavily compressed sounds are then broadcast on the radio or TV, they get slammed again with a hard limiter of 30:1 at least, which makes for a grand total ratio of 450:1…Ouch!
So, hopefully now, with a better understanding of the benefits of wise equalization and compression, you drum sounds and the drumming experience will be greatly improved!
See the drummer’s guide to the TD-50 here
Related Products
