Time for action—using compression in LMMS
The various dynamics plugins in LMMS are very useful. We're going to start with compressing the kick using the Effects Chain on FX channel 1 of our mixer:
- Locate the effects chain for FX channel 1 of the mixer in our project.
- Choose Add Effect, and select LADSPA Effect: Simple Compressor [Peak: Envelope Tracking].
- Turn off all of the FX channels except for the kick:
- Now set the controls of the effect plugin, as shown in the following screenshot:
This effectively sets the compressor so it isn't compressing at all.
- Turn Compression Ratio to the far right. This will make the compressor act as a limiter.
- Listen carefully with the ratio turned to value 9. Do not alter any more settings.
- Now start pulling the threshold down by turning the threshold knob to the left slowly. The sound energy will begin passing the compressor's threshold, and you will hear the compression start to kick in. Move the knob to the far left, far right, then settle...