A compressor is a device or module that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal by attenuating its louder parts and optionally boosting its quieter parts. This is achieved by setting specific thresholds at which the compressor starts to act, along with ratios that determine how much the signal above the threshold is reduced. Compressors are used to make audio output more consistent in volume, enhance sustain, and protect against signal clipping by controlling peaks. They are essential tools in both live sound reinforcement and studio recording environments.
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