NewTek TalkShow VS-100 - Manual (Page 62)

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Compressor, Limiter – what’s the
difference, anyway?
Compression and limiting are not
really different processes, but more
a matter of ‘degree’. Compression,
ideally, takes the form of a subtle,
almost imperceptible modulation of
the sound level to achieve a more
pleasing and convenient range. A
limiter is applied more for the
purpose of ‘crushing’ unwanted
spikes and transients.
That distinction aside, a limiter is
essentially just a compressor set to a
high ratio and, generally, a fast
attack time. Audio engineers
typically consider ‘compression’ with
a ratio of 10:1 or more as ‘limiting’.
Enable or disable the Equalizer using the switch beside its label. The vertical sliders
attenuate or boost the tonal range centered
on the frequency shown at the top. The
effect applied falls off gradually as sound
draws closer to neighboring frequencies on
either side. Click Reset to return all sliders
to 0dB.
Hint: Naturally, reducing or increasing the level
of one or more tonal bands affects the overall
output level as well. This may call for you to trim
the main Gain setting for the affected input or
output.
C OMPRESSOR L IMITER
The Compressor/Limiter (Figure 55) is able
to
preventing clipping caused by
unexpected peaks or transients, and of
making talent sound better than they do in
real life. It does this by bringing the levels of
audio sources into an optimal dynamic
range.
T HRESHOLD
Sound above the set Threshold level will be
compressed; the amount of compression and the
manner in which it is applied are both dictated by the
other settings.
R ATIO
A Ratio of 4:1 means that if input level is 4 dB over the threshold, the output signal level
after compression will be just 1 dB over the threshold. The gain (level) is reduced by
3dB.
Very high ratio settings are the reason for the word “limiter” is part of the title for this
feature.