limiteröinnillä

Limiteröinnillä, also known as limiter or clipping, is a signal processing technique used in audio engineering to prevent audio signals from exceeding a certain level. It works by attenuating or "clipping" any part of the signal that goes above a predefined threshold. This process effectively limits the peak amplitude of the audio signal, preventing distortion that would occur if the signal were to exceed the capabilities of playback equipment or recording media.

The primary purpose of limiteröinnillä is to protect equipment from damage caused by excessively loud signals. It also serves to increase the overall perceived loudness of an audio signal without introducing audible distortion. This is achieved because the limiter reduces the peaks, allowing the overall volume to be turned up without clipping. This technique is widely used in mastering, live sound reinforcement, and broadcasting to ensure consistent audio levels and prevent unwanted noise.

While effective, excessive limiteröinnillä can lead to a loss of dynamic range and a "squashed" or unnatural sound. Therefore, its application requires careful judgment to balance the benefits of loudness and protection with the preservation of audio fidelity. Different types of limiters exist, varying in their attack and release times, knee characteristics, and algorithms, each offering different sonic results.