Too Much Parallel Compression?

[Erik Mitchell]

Hi there, was wondering if there are certain instruments in a track that should not be parallel compressed? I basically am using it on everything and I'm not sure if it's a good idea? Also should I only parallel compress the lows & highs? Tried doing a search, but wasn't able to find an answer to this specifically...

Thanks!

[JMFOne]

It depends on what you are trying to achieve. You have said you are putting it on everything, why are you doing that?

[Erik Mitchell]

Well I'm making a standard house track, figured it would help make everything sound more punchy. However, does it become a bit overkill on everything? I don't want to muddy up the mix too much...

[mharris]

However, does it become a bit overkill on everything?

Why don't you try it and see? If it sounds good then keep it, if not then stop doing it.

I know that's not very helpful, but only you know what you like and how you want things to sound. Trial and error is the only way to learn what creates the sound you like.

[Da hand]

Well I'm making a standard house track, figured it would help make everything sound more punchy. However, does it become a bit overkill on everything? I don't want to muddy up the mix too much...

Good mixes are all about balance and how the elements relate to each other. If everything is the same then your mix will sound flat and lifeless - even if you make everything "punchy". Choose what elements you want in front, a bit further back, and all the way in the back. The ones in front are the only ones that really need any punch and will be higher in volume. Try to really separate the layers, it will give your mix a lot of depth.

Same thing for stereo positioning. If you make everything wide, your mix will not be as wide as it can be. Choose what you want panned center, a bit to the left and right, more to the left and right, etc.

[Tarekith]

The rule of thumb is always "if it sounds good, you're doing it right". That said, I'm willing to go out on a limb and say that yes, you are probably overdoing things if you are using parallel compression on everything. Why not just use it once on the master then?