# Attack

> Compression ear training for attack: one part compressed two ways, level-matched, only the attack different. Hear which lets the front of the note through.

Page: https://mixchops.com/comp/attack

The exercise runs at [https://mixchops.com/comp/attack](https://mixchops.com/comp/attack) in any modern browser, with headphones or decent speakers.

## Hear the attack *on the front of the note.*

Attack is how quickly the compressor clamps down. A slow attack lets the transient through before it grabs, which is where the punch lives; a fast attack catches it. Both versions read the same gain reduction and play at the same loudness, so the attack is the only difference. It starts at 0.3 ms against 60 ms and ends at 5 against 20.

### How it works

1. Press Start and flip between A and B (key B). Both are compressed by the same amount.
2. Listen to the very front of each note.
3. Pick the slower attack (keys 1 and 2).

### How it’s scored

Eight questions a level. Get six right to pass and unlock the next.

### Levels

Six levels: Beginner (0.3 ms against 60 ms), Intermediate (1 against 40) and Advanced (5 against 20). Each tier starts on the drums, where compression is easiest to hear; vocals come in at Advanced. Levels 1 and 2 are free. Levels 3 and up are part of [Mix Chops Pro](https://mixchops.com/pro), and every level is open while Mix Chops is in early access.

[Compressed or Dry](https://mixchops.com/comp/dry) · [How Much](https://mixchops.com/comp/amount) · [Attack](https://mixchops.com/comp/attack) · [Ratio](https://mixchops.com/comp/ratio) · [All exercises](https://mixchops.com/#comp)