---
title: "Lesson 6.4 - Compressor and Limiter"
description: "Compressor and limiter are the audio processing chain that levels your microphone signal so soft moments are audible and loud moments do not distort. The compressor reduces the dynamic range (the gap..."
url: https://thestreameragency.com/courses/stream-quality-system/lessons/quality-6-4-compressor/
date: 2026-05-07
modified: 2026-05-07
author: "The Streamer Agency"
type: lp_lesson
lang: en
---

# Lesson 6.4 - Compressor and Limiter

Compressor and limiter are the audio processing chain that levels your microphone signal so soft moments are audible and loud moments do not distort. The compressor reduces the dynamic range (the gap between your quietest and loudest moments). The limiter prevents any peak from exceeding a safe maximum that would distort.

The implementation in OBS: add a Compressor filter to your microphone source with a moderate ratio (3:1 or 4:1), a fast attack (around 6 ms), and a moderate release (around 60 ms). Add a Limiter filter set to roughly minus-1 dB. Save.

The implementation in VoiceMeeter Banana (for streamers running advanced audio routing): use the built-in Strip compressor and the Output limiter, configured similarly.

The audible result: your voice sits at a consistent level throughout the stream regardless of whether you are whispering or laughing. Viewers do not have to constantly adjust their playback volume. The professional-broadcast sound is achievable at any equipment tier with correctly-configured compression and limiting.