6. Dynamic Processors 201

Dynamic Processors, can't live with'em, can't live without'em.

Several of the most difficult problems for audio engineers are over-saturation of signal, bleed-through of unwanted sounds, and excessive dynamic range. This class will examine the nature of audio dynamic processors such as noise gates, compressor-limiters, and the concept of side-chain insertion, which allows an engineer to combine these line-level devices in novel ways that solve those problems. Add to that the fact that now most of these "devices" are plug-ins and work strictly in the digital realm. Still...

Audio engineers must know how to control signals and dynamic range through the use of dynamic processing devices. Audio signals can often be affected by a wide range of both internal and external influences. For example, excessive signal level or excessive dynamic range, bleed-through into mics from adjacent sound sources, and Brick-wall limiting functions are all achieved through the use of dynamic processing. Unfortunately, these devices can ruin your sound just as easily as they can fix it! Understanding the operations of these devices, how and where they are connected to other devices, and the proper approach to setting the adjustments to dynamic processing are all topics we will cover in this week's class.