Noam Wallenberg uses the Waves DBX 160 compressor to fix floppy kick drums, giving them a punchier, tighter sound.
This straightforward compressor is super easy to use, with fixed attack and release times that emphasize the kick's attack and reduce its length by clamping down after the transient. This creates a shorter, more defined impact.
By comparing it to other compressors like the LA2A, which can lengthen kicks, Wallenberg highlights the DBX 160's unique ability to tighten and add punch to the kick drum.