Mixing Audio, 3rd Edition

19Gates

Following compressors, gates are perhaps the second most common dynamic range processors in mixing. Gates are also called noise-gates— a name that hints at their traditional usage as noise eliminators. In the past, tapes and analog equipment were the main contributors to added hiss. Nowadays, digital technology tends to allow much cleaner recordings. Still, in project studios, unwanted noise on a recording might be the outcome of ground loops, a computer fan, or airborne traffic. Noise, however, is not the only thing gates are employed to reduce. The rumble produced by the floor tom when the rest of the drum kit is played is often gated. The hi-hats spill on a snare track and the headphone spill on a vocal track are two more examples. ...