överkompression

Überkompression is a term used in audio engineering to describe the excessive use of audio compression. Compression is a dynamic range control process that reduces the volume of loud sounds and amplifies quiet sounds, making the overall signal sound more consistent. When compression is applied too heavily, it can lead to several undesirable artifacts.

One of the main issues with überkompression is the loss of dynamics. Music or speech can sound flat and lifeless because the natural ebb and flow of volume is eliminated. This can make it difficult for the listener to engage with the audio, as there's no variation to create interest or impact. Another common problem is the introduction of "pumping" or "breathing" artifacts. Pumping occurs when the compressor rapidly reduces the gain of a signal, causing an audible change in volume that follows the rhythm of the audio. Breathing is similar but often refers to a less rhythmic and more general swelling or shrinking of the background noise or quiet parts of the signal.

Überkompression can also make audio sound harsher and more fatiguing. The constant amplification of quiet parts can bring up unwanted noise, and the aggressive reduction of peaks can create distortion. In mastering, überkompression is often employed to make tracks louder for competitive loudness standards. However, when taken too far, it sacrifices audio quality for sheer volume, a practice sometimes referred to as "loudness war." Skilled audio engineers use compression judiciously to enhance audio, while überkompression is generally considered a detrimental overuse of the technique.