What Does a Noise Gate Do?

Noise gates are now in common use by any professional live or studio recording engineer. They are essential in making sure that a live signal or recording is mixed properly and that there is no unwanted noise coming through the speakers or on the recorded track. Learning the function of a noise gate can allow you to begin exploring this must-have piece of recording gear further.

Function

Noise gates take an audio signal from one source, instrument or vocals, and regulate that signal to a second source, usually a speaker. Signals under a set volume are "gated" so they do not pass to the second source, while signals over a set volume do pass through the gate.

Types

Noise gates can either be a software program or an actual piece of equipment that the signal is then sent through.

Uses

Noise gates are used in recording studios as well as in live stage shows for both recording, mixing and adding effects.

Noise Reduction

Noise gates can also be used to reduce noise that appears on recordings such as amplifier hiss or unwanted microphone sounds.

Famous Ties

Phil Collins used a noise gate to get the haunting vocal sound on his hit single "In the Air Tonight."

Resources

• Pro Tools Website