compression while tracking vocals

[benny]

I'm always a little unsure about applying compression while tracking vocals. I know different vocalist call for different approaches, so i'm looking for some general guidlines to get started. Generally i'm pretty conservative on the front end. I use an Avalon or Universal Audio running through an amek 9098 compressor. I usually get great results but i'm wondering how I can take this technique further. I've been noticing some really squashed, upfront vocals lately, (Lisa Marie Presley, Michelle Branch, and Meshell N'Degeocello) and i'm wandering how much of that is done on the front end. If anybody out there has thoughts on this matter I would love to get some feedback.

thanks,
benny

[EricK]

I usually record vocals with just a touch of light compression. Then apply more during the mix. You should be conservative when recording, because you won't be able to undo any overcompression. If you think you might need some radical comrpession, do it at the mix.

[DKeenum]

I agree with Eric, although you'll find people who never track with compression. I have gone as high as 4:1 if the singer is inexperienced, but generally keep it a 2:1. I set the threshold where only the peaks are (soft knee) compressed. If I worry about the singer I'll even use a limiter.

[inLoco]

i think a limiter works better for me! compression when not used properly kills the dynamics so i prefer to use it latter! when mixing cause i can go back... if tracked with compression no...
but that's me...