What does comp mean in vocal mixing Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kɑmp/, /kɔmp/

Part of Speech

Noun/Verb

Definition

A comp refers to a mix-down of a multi-track recording, where the individual tracks are grouped together to create a single stereo or mono mix. This process involves combining the levels, EQ, and compression of each track to create a balanced and cohesive sound.

Examples

The engineer spent hours comping the vocals to get the perfect blend.
The producer decided to comp the drums and bass to create a more driving rhythm section.

Synonyms

Mix-down
Mastering

Antonyms

Raw
Uneven

Etymology

The term “comp” originated from the verb “to comp,” which comes from the Latin “componere,” meaning “to put together.” In the context of audio engineering, the term refers to the process of bringing together individual tracks to create a cohesive mix.

Usage Notes

In music production, comp is often used in the following contexts:

To refer to the final mixed version of a track
To describe the process of combining multiple tracks into a single mix
To indicate the blending of different sound sources, such as vocals and instruments

Cultural References

Comp has been referenced in popular culture, including:

A song by the band Tame Impala, titled “Let it Happen (Comp Version)”
A podcast episode by The Pro Audio Files, discussing the art of compring vocals

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idioms and phrases that include comp are:

“To comp something” – to mix down a track
“Comp feedback” – feedback from the mixed tracks to the artist or producer

Related Words or Phrases

Some words and phrases closely related to comp are:

Acumen – the ability to understand and mix different frequencies
Ticker – a device used to measure and control levels in audio engineering
Flugelhorn – a brass instrument often used in jazz and classical music

Collocations

Some common collocations with comp are:

comp notes – notes taken during the comping process
comp sessions – sessions in the studio where the engineer and artist work on the mix

Frequency of Use

Comp is a common term in music production and audio engineering, with a frequency of use ranking among the top 10% of audio-related terminology.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of comp include:

combo
comby

Additional Information

In music production, comping is a crucial step in creating a balanced and cohesive mix. The process involves combining the levels, EQ, and compression of each track to create a sound that is pleasing to the ear. A good comp should have a clear balance of levels, a defined rhythm section, and a strong sense of spatiality. Comping requires a combination of technical knowledge and artistic intuition, making it a challenging but rewarding process for audio engineers and producers. The use of comping in music production has a long history, dating back to the early days of multitrack recording. The first multitrack recorder, the Ampex 350, was introduced in the late 1950s and allowed engineers to record multiple tracks simultaneously. Since then, technology has advanced significantly, with the advent of digital recording and editing software making it easier to comp and mix tracks. In addition to its technical applications, comping is also an art form that requires creativity and experimentation. A good comp can elevate a track from good to great, while a bad comp can make it sound amateurish and unpolished. The art of comping is not limited to music production. It has also been applied to other fields, such as film and video production, where the comping process is used to create a cohesive soundtrack or score. In summary, comping is an essential aspect of music production and audio engineering, requiring a combination of technical knowledge and artistic intuition. With the right tools and techniques, comping can elevate a track from good to great and make it sound professional and polished.