Compressor/Limiter
A Compressor/Limiter is an essential tool in radio broadcasting that controls the volume of audio. Think of it like an automatic volume control that keeps sound consistent - making loud sounds quieter and quiet sounds louder. This helps ensure that radio listeners hear everything clearly without having to constantly adjust their volume. When someone mentions this in their resume, they're showing they know how to maintain professional broadcast sound quality. It's similar to a safety net that prevents sound from getting too loud or too quiet during a broadcast.
Examples in Resumes
Operated Compressor/Limiter equipment to maintain consistent audio levels during live broadcasts
Configured Compressor and Limiter settings for various types of programming
Trained junior staff on proper use of Audio Compressor and Audio Limiter equipment
Typical job title: "Broadcast Audio Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Broadcast Audio Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up audio processing chains for different types of radio content?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how different content (like music, talk shows, or commercials) needs different compression settings, and how they would create and save these settings for consistent station sound.
Q: How do you handle audio processing during emergency broadcasts?
Expected Answer: Should discuss maintaining clarity of emergency messages while ensuring consistent volume levels, and explain backup procedures if main processing equipment fails.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your approach to setting up compression for a talk radio show?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to balance voice clarity with consistent volume, mentioning basic settings like threshold and ratio to handle different speaking styles.
Q: How do you troubleshoot common audio processing issues?
Expected Answer: Should describe identifying problems like over-compression or distortion, and steps to fix these while keeping the station on air.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic difference between a compressor and limiter?
Expected Answer: Should explain that a compressor gradually reduces volume when it gets too loud, while a limiter stops the sound from ever going above a certain level.
Q: What are the basic controls on a compressor/limiter?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic controls like threshold (when it starts working) and ratio (how much it reduces the volume).
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic operation of broadcast equipment
- Understanding of audio levels
- Simple troubleshooting
- Following established processing presets
Mid (2-5 years)
- Setting up processing chains
- Creating and adjusting presets
- Equipment maintenance
- Emergency procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced audio processing techniques
- System design and integration
- Staff training and supervision
- Emergency broadcast management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with broadcast equipment
- Lack of knowledge about FCC regulations
- Unable to explain basic audio concepts
- No experience with live broadcasting
Related Terms
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