problem
Release time decides how quickly the ducked signal returns, so the wrong setting can fight the groove or leave the mix breathing.
A fast release can chatter or distort low-frequency material. A slow release can keep bass, pads, or music beds ducked after the trigger has passed.
The same release setting can feel different at different tempos because the compressor recovers against the rhythm of the song.
Loop the busiest section and watch whether gain reduction recovers before the next trigger. Listen for the bass or bed swelling late or snapping back too quickly.
Meter the mix bus because heavy sidechain movement can change short-term loudness and limiter behavior.
Set attack and release with the trigger in context, then adjust threshold for the amount of ducking. Use filtered sidechain detection when low-end hits pull too much level.
Meter Core helps connect sidechain gain reduction, short-term loudness, and true peak while you find the pocket.