Gate
Essentials
Gate opens/closes based on threshold with Attack, Hold, Release, Gain, and Normal/Inverted modes. Use sidechain for pumping effects. Perfect for noise reduction, drum tightening, and creative gating.
Threshold-based gating
Attack, hold, release, and gain controls
Normal/inverted modes
Sidechain for pumping effects
Controls
On/Off |
Activates or bypasses the gate effect |
|---|---|
Mode (Norm/Inv) |
Gate mode:
|
Gate (threshold) |
Level at which the gate opens. Signals above (normal) or below (inverted) this level pass through. |
Hold |
Time (0.01-2000 ms) the gate stays open after falling below threshold. Prevents rapid gating on transient tails. |
Attack |
Speed (10-100 ms) to open once threshold is exceeded. Faster attack responds quicker to signals. |
Release |
Speed (10-600 ms) to close once below threshold. Controls how quickly the gate closes. |
Gain |
Output boost after gating (-inf to +9 dB equivalent). Compensates for level reduction when gate is active. |
Sidechain |
Optional external input for sidechain gating. Allows external signal to trigger the gate. |
Practical Tips
Practical Tips
Noise cleanup: eliminate hiss, hum, and background noise.
Tight drums: short attack/release for percussive gating.
Pumping: use sidechain for rhythmic pumping effects.