Welcome to the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive – How to Set up Audio Compression Guide. In this tutorial, you will learn how to set up system-wide compression on your computer to enhance your gaming audio quality.
The Benefits of Compression
To put it simply, compression is good. It can significantly enhance your video gaming experience. With audio compression, the dynamic range is reduced, which means that quieter noises will be amplified and louder sounds will be muted.
This helps you detect minute sound effects like footsteps while reducing loud noises like explosions or gunfire that can be overwhelming to your hearing. Audio compression also balances a game’s audio volumes, ensuring that sound effects aren’t excessively loud or silent.
How to Set up Compression
Before we begin, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Digital Audio Cable – [vbaudio.com]
- ASIO4ALL – [asio4all.org]
- Reaper
- Any VST that does compression
Firstly, you need to install Virtual Audio Cable (VAC) and restart your computer. Once you’ve installed VAC, you’ll need ASIO4ALL to avoid latency issues. Next, install Reaper. Although it’s a paid program, you can try it for free for 60 days. Lastly, if you need any compression VST, we recommend Xfer’s OTT compressor because it’s completely free and you can use it with anything.
Setting it up
To set up compression, follow these steps:
- Set VAC on your computer as your output.
- Open Reaper and set your audio system to ASIO.
- Scroll down to ASIO configuration and click on the wrench.
- Turn on your headphones and Virtual Audio Cable.
- When you close the ASIO config, your devices should be set as shown.
- Right-click on the main Reaper window to Insert New Song.
- Click on Record Arm/Disarm to access your desktop audio.
- Add VST effects on your desktop audio by clicking the FX button.
- Select the VST option you want to use.
- Modify the VST to your preferred audio settings. Keep Reaper open so that the audio effect continues to work.
