Learning Audio Programming Through Development of a Dynamic Multiband Compressor

Learning Audio Programming Through Development of a Dynamic Multiband Compressor

Presenter(s)

Thomas Pruett

Comments

9:20-9:40, Kennedy Union 310

Description

This presentation outlines the course of development for my dynamic multiband compressor, a digital plugin which can dynamically split inputted audio into multiple independent frequency bands which can then have their own level of dynamic compression applied. This project was undertaken with two goals in mind. First, to development my coding skills in JUCE, a C++ framework which specializes in audio applications. Second, to increase my auditory capabilities, when working with audio it is paramount that one can discern the nuances in different types of sounds. Through the course of development I was able to overcome varying obstacles, the dynamic element of the compressor by itself offered quiet a bit of challenges. Further challenges were produced just from the sear lack of resources when it comes to audio programing. This was a common theme throughout development, from my research and communication with those in the industry, audio programming is an extremely niche but also an extremely sought after skill set. JUCE splits plugin development into two basic sections, GUI and Processing. The processing component handles the changes to inputted signals such as the dynamic band split and compression applications. The GUI is more centered around the aesthetic components to the plugin such as parameter sliders and the spectrum analyzer. Both are extremely important and foundational functions to audio programming, however through my experience I have found the processing branch JUCE to offer greater difficulty as this is where audio is actually getting worked on and where auditory skills are developed. After much research and application, the final product was a fully functional dynamic compressor, but better than that I was equipped with the skills necessary to thrive at my internship.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Independent Research

Primary Advisor

William B. Harrison

Primary Advisor's Department

Music

Keywords

Stander Symposium, College of Arts and Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Scholarship; Vocation; Critical Evaluation of Our Times

Learning Audio Programming Through Development of a Dynamic Multiband Compressor

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