Where is the optimal place to patch a compressor or gate on an analog console?

The optimal place to patch a compressor or gate on an analog console is at the channel insert points. This is because channel insert points are specifically designed to allow you to insert external processing equipment into the signal path of an individual channel. When you patch a device like a compressor or gate at this location, it directly influences the channel's audio signal before that signal is routed to the console's mix bus or outputs.

Using channel inserts ensures that the processing applied by the compressor or gate affects only the intended channel, allowing for precise control over dynamics without impacting the overall mix. This is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of other channels and the overall sound of the performance. Additionally, insert points typically break the signal path, which means the output of the channel can be fed back after processing, allowing for seamless integration with the workflow of the console.

In contrast, using aux sends would send a split signal to an external processor but not allow for direct manipulation of the channel's main output. Patching at the main outputs could affect the entire mix, and direct outputs are used for sending signals directly to a recording device or mix rather than for processing within the console's setup. Therefore, utilizing the channel insert points is the most effective method for applying compression or gating in