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Collaboration, Voice & AV · Intermediate

Dynamics Processing

Processing that changes a signal's level based on its amplitude, including compressors, limiters, expanders and gates.

Definition

A compressor reduces gain when a signal exceeds a threshold by a set ratio, smoothing level differences; a limiter is a compressor with a high ratio that prevents peaks from exceeding a ceiling; a gate mutes signals below a threshold; an expander reduces gain below a threshold more gently. Attack and release times shape how quickly processing reacts.

Example

A limiter on the amplifier feed protects loudspeakers from accidental microphone drops.

Exam tip

Compressor ratio 4:1 means 4 dB of input above threshold yields 1 dB of output above threshold.

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