Dynamic Range Compression vs. Limiting: A Battle of the Controls
If you're into audio production, you're likely familiar with the terms dynamic range compression and limiting. While both controls have a role in sculpting the final sound, they achieve it in different ways. This post aims to explain what dynamic range compression and limiting are and how they differ.
What is Dynamic Range Compression?
Dynamic range compression is an audio processing technique that reduces the volume of loud sounds and increases the volume of quiet sounds. The goal is to create a more uniform sound level that is easier to listen to and doesn't cause ear fatique from constantly adjusting the volume.
Compression ratios are usually expressed as 2:1, 4:1, 8:1, or higher. A ratio of 2:1 means that for every 2 dB (decibels) of input gain above the threshold, only 1 dB of output gain is allowed. A threshold setting of -12 dB and a ratio of 4:1, for example, means that any sound above -12 dB will be compressed at a 4:1 ratio. Thus, a sound that measures -8 dB will come out at -10 dB (-8 dB divided by the ratio of 4 equals -2; -2 added to the threshold of -12 equals -10).
What is Limiting?
Limiting, like compression, is a technique used to control the dynamic range of an audio signal. The difference between the two is in the amount of compression applied, which is much higher when limiting. In other words, limiting is a compression with a high ratio, resulting in almost no peaks above a certain level.
The threshold for limiting is usually set between -0.1 to -0.5 dB below the maximum peak level, and the ratio is often between 10:1 to infinity, depending on the goal sought.
Differences and Similarities
While both dynamic range compression and limiting aim to control the dynamic range of an audio signal, they do so in different ways. Compression is used when a more subtle sound correction is needed or when the effect should not be perceived by the listener. Limiting, on the other hand, is used when it is necessary to avoid digital distortion, which occurs when there is clipping -- that is, when an audio signal exceeds the maximum voltage of a system or a specified bit depth.
Another difference between the two controls is that the release time varies between them. The release time is the period the compressor takes to cease the compression once the audio signal falls below the threshold. Limiters have faster release times compared to dynamic range compressors, which can create a pumping effect in the sound.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both dynamic range compression and limiting are essential tools in audio production. While both are used to control dynamic range, they differ in the amount of compression applied and the purpose behind using them. Compression is great for subtle sound corrections, while limiting is useful for avoiding digital distortion.
We hope this has provided insight into the differences between dynamic range compression and limiting. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at Flare Compare.
References
- "What is Dynamic Range Compression?" Universal Audio, accessed September 27, 2021, https://www.neotechaudio.com/blog/what-is-dynamic-range-compression
- "Limiters Explained: What They Are & How They Work," Sound on Sound, accessed September 27, 2021, https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques/limiters-explained-what-they-are-how-they-work