From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing

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Understanding and using expanders

Understanding and using expanders

From the course: Audio Foundations: Compression and Dynamic Processing

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Understanding and using expanders

Gates with ratio controls are called expanders. Instead of completely cutting off a signal below the threshold, expanders simply reduce the volume of the signal below the threshold by the specified ratio. In this case they're truly a reverse compressor because they expand the dynamic range of the signal instead of reducing it. In an expander, the signals that passed over the threshold are unaffected and the signals that fall under the threshold are attenuated. This creates a greater dynamic range between the softest and loudest parts of a signal. Expanders are perfect for scenarios when you don't want to kill the bleed but just want to turn it down a bit or separate it more from the main signal. This can help give a signal a little more bounce as the dynamic range between the below and above threshold parts is extended or expanded. Listen to the snare through an expander with a ratio of 2:1. Notice how the bleed is reduced but not eliminated. (music playing) Expanders, as well as…

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