A multiplier (12) is disclosed that includes an encoder (36), a hierarchy of compressors (40, 42, 44, 50, 52, 60 and 70), a bit detector (130) and a switch (134). The encoder (36) is operable to receive a first and second encoder input. The compressors (40, 42, 44, 50, 52, 60 and 70) are coupled to the encoder (36). The compressors (40,42, 44, 50, 52, 60 and 70) are operable to receive a first number of inputs and to generate a second number of outputs, with the second number being less than the first number. The bit detector (130) is operable to monitor the first encoder input to determine whether the first encoder input is in a reduced precision range (28). The bit detector (130) is also operable to deactivate a subset of the compressors (40 and 50) when the bit detector (130) determines that the first encoder input is in the reduced precision range (28). The switch (134) is coupled to a specified one of the compressors (42). The switch (134) is operable to redirect the path of one of the outputs for the specified compressor (42) such that the subset of the compressors (40 and 50) is removed from the path when the bit detector (130) determines that the first encoder input is in the reduced precision range (28).