Limiting volume spikes to save speakers ?

[vxt]

Hi folks, a very newbie question here.

 

I was experimenting with a synth and at one point i clicked something and the volume went real high, it almost blew my speakers. I want to put some kind of volume limiter thing on the master channel so this doesn't happen, like volume never goes beyond certain db?

 

How do I do that? Very afraid to play with synths now.

[mmb]

I think you can put a Limiter plug in on the Output channel (or maybe even insert it on the track with the synth) and turn the Gain and/or Output Level down.

But what is your volume set at your speakers? I dont think this should even be a problem if its set at a reasonable level.

 

Better wait for someone to clarify this though.

[vxt]

Thanks for the reply! I don't exactly know what happens.

 

My speakers are never over 50% and my Macbook is set at maybe 40%.

 

Problem is when I was switching different type of waveforms and other things, at some setting the synth just got so loud. I figure this should be happening to everyone and there should be a common way people handle this to save speakers.

 

Could you tell me exactly which plug-in in Logic 9 is commonly used to handle this issue? And maybe at what settings also?

[EdgarRothermich]

A Limiter on the Master Channel is the safest bet.

 

Before you do that, I would advice you to read up on the topic of audio compressors (Limiter is a special type of compressor). This helps you to better understand why you would use a specific control at a specific level. Using a Plugin (or any plugin) is kind of dangerous if you don't know what it does and could mess up your recording or mix (especially in the Master Channel).

 

If you are not familiar with those type of plugins, spending the time to watch YouTube videos (plenty available) that explain and show Compressors is a very good time investment. They are one of the most used tools in music recording/mixing and knowing how to use them will tremendously improve your production.

[vxt]

Thanks Edgar! I just setup a very minimal home studio and currently going thru a LOT of manuals, youtube vids and other texts. Couldn't find a solution for this particular issue anywhere. I just wanted to keep on safely playing with synths as I learn.

 

I'll just use this Limiter while poking the synths. Once I find a sound I like, I can remove the limiter so the whole project don't suffer.

[rickenbacker360]

Coming from a different angle.

 

While vxt outlines the problem of an accidental volume peak, I'm wondering about a more general aspect of protecting speakers—not simply limiting volume. I'm not trying to hijack the thread but any input related to protecting one's speakers is welcome.

 

So here goes...

 

1. Is there any consensus that certain types of wave forms (square, for example) are very hard on speakers? Synths are easily capable of such great complexities. Do these wave forms need to be treated with "kid gloves" due to their potential for "instant" damage?

 

2. For passive speakers (I must assume that active ones are properly matched): I've been told an under-powered amp driving speakers may actually lead to blown speakers more easily that an over-powered amp, owing to a similar distortion idea?

[fisherking]

one of my collabs has a PHYSICAL stereo compressor (a dbx model i think) running between his audio interface and his monitors...

he SWEARS it keeps the levels from overloading the speakers. i guess...

 

better to work at lower volumes, and then, when you're at that point, turn everything up to play back and see how a mix (or a track, or whatever) FEELS...

 

then back to work lower volume.

 

having said all that i ALWAYS work very loud (even tho i know better LOL)

[vxt]

I'm still confused. Can't figure out exactly how the Limiter thing should be set. And which one to use? Adaptive Limiter or the one simply called Limiter? See screenshot:

 

http://s7.postimage.org/xwf9kjpvv/Screenshot_2012_12_07_5_26_PM_2.jpg

[vxt]

Now I'm even more confused. According to the video (link below) we should be using a compressor instead of a limiter to protect speakers? Please help me understand.

[shivermetimbers]

It's simple! Put some type of Volume control device right before your speakers and keep the level low so you don't blow up your speakers. Don't rely on a plug in to do this. If you have cheap speakers, then disregard this advice.

[vxt]

It's simple! Put some type of Volume control device right before your speakers and keep the level low so you don't blow up your speakers. Don't rely on a plug in to do this. If you have cheap speakers, then disregard this advice.

 

Thanks Mr. Silver . Any examples of such volume control devices?

[shivermetimbers]

You didn't follow the forum rules and list some of your equipment (i.e. speakers, interface), so I can't really recommend anything yet.

 

Logic also has a Dim feature, but I would still use an external volume level control.