Very simple envelope question...

I think already know the answer to this but I am a worrier ;)

In regards to clip gain envelopes, is it better to cut the loud peaks or boost the quiet data?


 Couldn't find answer by searching... 

I have never really used envelopes before on my tracks, I always just lazily use a compressor. But I am beginning to see why envelopes are a better way of getting a better overall level. Of course I know I can also use a compressor on the post enveloped track, just doesn't need to work as hard. 

My recommendation would be just the opposite of BlixYZ's - dif'rent strokes. I prefer to level the volume as best I can with automation first, then let the compressor take care of the shorter-term variances that would be too much work to handle with automation.

As for whether it's better to boost or cut, I usually get the track in the ballpark with the trim (gain in X1) control and then favor cuts for leveling. After all, you can only get 6db from boosts but there are no limitations for cutting. In analog days the standard advice would always be to cut, but in the digital world there is no real penalty for boosting levels. The main reason I prefer cuts is it helps mitigate "fader creep", the phenomenon in which all levels gradually increase the more you tweak a mix.