Compressors and Limiters

Published: July 21, 2020, 6:14 p.m.

EP 30 of the daily podcast, GET THE ROOM NOISE. There are a few essential components in each podcast episode. First is compression. Audio Compression is the process of adjusting a signal’s dynamic range. Dynamic range is the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of an audio signal. When you watch a movie and a character is whispering or speaking softly, the audience (being you) is able to hear the quiet voices because the audio is compressed! Obviously in reality, you probably won’t be able to understand a single word the character is saying from a distance. This is how films immerse the audience into intimate scenes, as if you were sitting right next to the person that is speaking. Furthermore, if you were to listen to an audio signal of a voice that is screaming and whispering, by using compression, you are effectively reducing the loud parts of a signal (the screaming) and you are increasing the quiet parts of a signal (the whispering). Next is a limiter. A limiter is similar to a compressor but the main differentiation between the two is that a limiter is generally done in the mastering phase of the production and is used to prevent an audio signal from exceeding a specified decibel, which prevents audio clipping. After the audio track is compressed and mixed, a limiter is used to amplify the overall volume of the track without degrading the dynamic range that was completed by the compressor. Music is by Blue Dot Sessions. ------------- PSA: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to help keep you and your community safe from the threat of novel, or new coronavirus. Take the following everyday steps to help avoid the spread of all respiratory viruses: * Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. * Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, throw the tissue away, and then wash your hands. * Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. * Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects or surfaces such as remote controls and doorknobs. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. * Stay home if you are sick. Call your doctor if you develop fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. For more tips, visit c-d-c dot g-o-v.