Compression Limiter

What is a Compression Limiter? An audio compressor limiter is basically a compressor that uses a high ratio to avoid clipping.Like a compressor, a limiter will limit the signal to a set threshold.

A limiter doesn't increase the quiet parts like a compressor. Although when the louder parts are reduced buy the limiter the quieter parts seem louder.

Behringer MDX4600 4-Channel Expander

The limiter will let you increase the overall volume of the track.

The controls are similar to a compressor:

  • Threshold
  • Ratio
  • Attack
  • Release
  • Gain


Here is a brief explanation of each parameter:

  • Threshold: This is the volume level the Limiter begins to affect the signal.
  • Ratio: This is the amount of compression applied to the signal.
  • Attack: How fast the Limiter starts affect the signal once the signal is over the threshold.
  • Release: How long it the Limiter stays on after the signal has fallen below the threshold.
  • Gain: Adjust the make up volume after the signal is affected by the Limiter.


Other Limiting Parameters:

  • Hard limiting: has a high ratio and fast attack and release time.
  • Soft limiting: has a low ratio and slower attack and release time.
  • Brick wall limiting: has a very high ratio and a very fast attack time.

Thanks For Visiting Compression Limiter

Back to Audio Dynamics 
Return from Compression Limiter back to The Home Recording Studio

Share this page:
Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.