Multiband Compression

Term from Audio Book Production industry explained for recruiters

Multiband Compression is a sound-improving tool commonly used in audiobook and podcast production. Think of it like having multiple volume controls for different parts of someone's voice - one for deep sounds, one for middle ranges, and one for high-pitched sounds. This helps make voices sound clearer and more consistent, which is especially important for audiobooks. It's similar to tools like EQ (equalizer) or limiting, but more sophisticated. When reading job descriptions, you might see it referred to as "dynamic range processing" or "frequency-specific compression."

Examples in Resumes

Applied Multiband Compression techniques to enhance vocal clarity in over 200 audiobook productions

Utilized Multiband Compression and MB Compression to maintain consistent audio levels across long-form content

Trained junior audio editors in proper Multiband Compression settings for various voice types

Typical job title: "Audio Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Audio Book Producer Sound Engineer Audio Editor Post-Production Engineer Voice Editor Audio Production Specialist Podcast Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach multiband compression for different voice types in audiobook production?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how they adjust settings for different voices (deep, high-pitched, or breathy), mention their process for maintaining consistency across long sessions, and discuss how they train others in using this tool.

Q: What's your workflow for handling a large audiobook project with multiple chapters?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of organizing large projects, maintaining consistent sound quality across chapters, and efficient processing techniques that save time while ensuring quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key differences between using multiband compression versus regular compression?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms why splitting the audio into different frequency bands is beneficial and give examples of when they would use each type.

Q: How do you deal with problematic frequencies in voice recordings?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for identifying and fixing audio issues, including using multiband compression to control specific frequency ranges causing problems.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic parameters of multiband compression you need to understand?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concepts like threshold, ratio, and crossover points in simple terms, showing they understand the fundamentals of the tool.

Q: How do you prepare a basic audiobook recording for processing?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic audio cleanup, setting proper levels, and preparing audio for compression and other processing.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic audio editing and cleanup
  • Understanding of compression basics
  • Simple voice processing
  • Basic DAW operation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced voice processing techniques
  • Efficient workflow management
  • Multiple format delivery
  • Quality control procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex audio restoration
  • Training and team leadership
  • Advanced processing techniques
  • Project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with professional audio editing software
  • Lack of understanding of basic audio terminology
  • No experience with long-form audio content
  • Poor attention to detail in audio samples