Threshold
Definition
The level at which a dynamics processor begins to act. Signals below the threshold are unaffected; signals above it are processed according to the ratio, attack, and release settings.
In Simple Terms
The volume level where a compressor, limiter, or gate starts working. Anything below the threshold passes through untouched. Anything above it gets compressed. Lower the threshold to catch more of the signal.
In Practice
A compressor with a threshold of -20 dBFS begins reducing gain whenever the vocal exceeds this level, controlling the loudest moments of the performance.
Common Confusion
Threshold alone tells you nothing about how aggressive the compression is. A threshold at -30 dBFS with a 1.5:1 ratio is gentler than a -10 dBFS threshold with a 10:1 ratio. Threshold sets where compression starts; ratio sets how hard it pushes once it starts. The two parameters always need to be evaluated together.
Sources & Verification
- Giannoulis, D., Massberg, M. & Reiss, J. D. — Digital Dynamic Range Compressor DesignJournal of the Audio Engineering Society, 2012
- Izhaki, R. — Mixing Audio (3rd ed., dynamics chapters)Focal Press, 2017
Last verified: 2026-05-05