f-erenc wrote: > So then why bother applying any compression before > the mastering stage? I haven't been following this thread, but the reason is that it often does good things to the mix. You're not using it in a mastering context to manage the dynamics, you're using just a little bit to tighten up the sound in the late stages of a mix. That's what the compressor in the middle of SSL boards is for - this isn't a new concept unique to me. I also wouldn't take it off before sending a song to mastering, because both the actual compressor and what the mastering engineer does will be different. Nick Batzdorf, editor/publisher Virtual Instruments magazine - the world of softsynths and samplers www.Virtualinstrumentsmag.com 1-877 VImagzn (846-2496) 818/905-9101, cell 590-9101