While it’s now always encouraged, like swapping a compressor for a limiter, the two can be used to accomplish the same task. So, to avoid any confusion, just remember we’re only referencing Downward Expanders in this article.Īs stated before, noise gates and expanders are almost one and the same. They’re more like Limiters, as they make quiet sounds louder. This is true for the majority of the time you see expanders mentioned unless they’re specifically described otherwise.Īll downward expanders are similar and interchangeable, but the same cannot be said for something like Upward Expanders. While expanders can come in many different varieties (each offering distinct functionality) we’re talking about Downward Expanders today. The simplest way to describe the duties of an Expander is: they make quiet sounds even quieter. If you’re comfortable with your compressor when making a beat, then the use of noise gates should be a piece of cake. Noise gates, on the other hand, attenuate signals which register below the threshold (increasing the dynamic range). The similarities between noise gates and compressors are not just a coincidence, as they were both designed to alter an instruments’ signal level.Ĭompressors are used to make sure a signal above a certain threshold is consistent with the rest of the track (reducing the dynamic range). If all this sounds a little familiar to you, just flipped… then you must know about compression. ![]() Plus, depending on the noise gate itself, additional, more obscure features.ĭoing this will ensure that your noise gate isn’t blatantly apparent in any way, and no unwanted artifacts will occur in the process. When sound is louder than (goes above) this specified threshold 一 the gate opens, allowing sound through.Īfter that, it all comes down to carefully setting the Attack and Release time, as well as the Ratio.When sound is below this specified threshold 一 the gate is closed, blocking any noise.This is because, unlike expanders (below), noise gates work in an ‘all or nothing’ fashion. This should be by a significant amount to get satisfactory results. When using a noise gate it’s important to make sure that the noise level of the material you plan to keep is louder than the part you wish to remove. If you’re a DJ, for example, this would be used when you’re performing. Noise gates are also commonly used to remove more than just low-level background noise as well, such as crowds at a big event. This includes things like electronics (leakage), air conditioners, and other noise, even including breathing. It essentially was created to remove/block what is considered to be ‘low-level’ background noise. Now that you’re aware of the power of silence, let’s dive in…Ī Noise Gate is a processor used to block any sound (noise) that’s coming through your audio channel once you set a noise threshold. Unless you’re bringing it in for creative purposes, which we will also be covering today. Instead, look at noise reduction/removal as a solution to a problem, not the end all be all. Your frame of mind should never be to eliminate all sound, all the time. It’s also a valuable tool in synthesis and sound design, as it creates texture and can be tuned/pitched when manipulated correctly. Since nothing is ever truly silent, a little background noise in a recording can actually be a good thing.Īs a producer, this is a very important fact to remember. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |