Multi-Band Compressor and Level issues

[josephwoebeus]

Hi there, I'm currently running Logic Pro 8.

 

I've gotten in the habit of dumping a multi-band compressor on the master bus of pretty much all my songs. my master bus looks something like (1)STEREO expander (2) MBC (3) reverb. Anyways, when I put the compressor on the master track (after messing with the values inside the track), the songs levels get higher than -3db, and I was wondering what the best means of handling this issue are. Now, keep in mind these are not drastic changes I'm looking for, simply a 2 or so drop in dB to have the tracks master ready

 

Here are some things I am looking on trying

 

1) Simply turn down the Output 1-2 bar on the mixer

2) Place a gain plug-in on the last spot on the master bus

3) Place a limiter on the last spot on the master bus

 

Thanks!

 

EDIT: I should also add that I want to take the route that is least intrusive for a masterer. I'm leaning on simply being able to turn down the Output 1-2, but I'm afraid that it will cause quality issues with a compressor on the master track.

[shivermetimbers]

Why not try a two step process?

 

Mix all your tracks and work at achieving a final output level of about -6dB.

Bounce that out and then 'master' the stereo file.

 

This should free you up from over using expansion, compression, and reverb at the mix down stage.

[josephwoebeus]

I see I see I'll surely try that. Should I mix to -6db without all the compressor on the master bus (then apply it in the studio file).

 

Also,, would you happen to know if turning down the output 1-2 fader, while there is a compressor on the master bus, will affect the quality of the song?

 

Thanks!

[shivermetimbers]

I see I see I'll surely try that. Should I mix to -6db without all the compressor on the master bus (then apply it in the studio file).

 

Also,, would you happen to know if turning down the output 1-2 fader, while there is a compressor on the master bus, will affect the quality of the song?

 

Thanks!

 

Here is a simplified basic idea about mixing http://www.tweakheadz.com/perfect_mix.html

 

-and-

 

http://www.popmusic.dk/download/pdf/levels-in-digital-audio.pdf

 

The quality of the song? You mean the quality of the sound file?

If you composed a good song, the value of the fader has nothing to do with it. The song is either good or it isn't.

 

The links above should answer both questions.