limiteristä

A limiter is a type of audio processor used in sound recording and live sound reinforcement to prevent audio signals from exceeding a certain amplitude level. This is achieved by reducing the gain of the signal when it reaches a predefined threshold. Limiters are essentially compressors with very fast attack times and high ratios, typically set to 10:1 or higher, often approaching infinity:1. The primary goal of a limiter is not to subtly shape the dynamics of a sound, but rather to act as a safety net, preventing clipping or distortion that can occur when an audio signal becomes too loud.

When an audio signal passes the set threshold, the limiter immediately reduces the gain. This rapid gain reduction ensures that the signal does not exceed the maximum allowed level, thus protecting downstream equipment or preventing an unpleasant listening experience. Limiters are commonly found on master outputs of mixing consoles to prevent the overall mix from clipping. They are also used on individual tracks to control peak levels, especially for sources with unpredictable dynamics like vocals or drums.

The threshold setting determines the point at which the limiter begins to operate. The output level is then controlled by the limiter's knee, attack, release, and ratio settings, though in a true limiter, the ratio is so high that the output level is effectively capped at or just below the threshold. While effective at preventing clipping, overuse of a limiter can result in a loss of dynamic range and an unnatural, "squashed" sound. Therefore, they are typically used judiciously, with the threshold set just high enough to catch occasional peaks.