Mastering Compression Cheat Sheet - The Four Topologies

The compressor cheat sheet I wish someone had given me when I started mixing.

Four topologies — Optical, FET, VCA, Variable-Mu — broken down by how they actually work, what they sound like, and when to reach for each one. Side-by-side response curves so you can see why FET is "fast" and Optical is "slow" instead of just being told.

Includes:

• Audio-path schematics for each topology (LDR cell, transistor, VCA, vacuum tube)
• Sonic character snapshot per topology
• Best uses with instrument ico