Expansion and Gating
Abstract
This chapter describes why expansion and gating might be necessary in modern music production, what those processes are, and how they differ. It also explores how to connect hardware processors and how to implement plug-ins. The control parameters of typical expanders and gates are explained, so that the reader understands these and derivative processors. Sound sources that typically benefit from gating are described, along with sound sources that it is not possible to gate effectively. Modern alternatives to traditional gating are introduced, as well as manual alternatives. Combining gating and compression is described.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Music Technology and Sound Studies
Music and Audio Processing
Musicology and Musical Analysis
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Focal Press eBooks
- Pages
- 184–198
- Publication date
- 6 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter