What is gating?
Gating refers to a specific technique used to control the dynamics of a sound. This technique, which is often used in the recording, mixing, and mastering stages of music production, involves the use of a device or software called a "gate" or "noise gate." The primary function of a gate is to control the level of a signal, allowing it to pass through when it is above a certain threshold, and blocking it when it is below.
The history of gating
The origins of gating can be traced back to the early days of radio broadcasting when gates were used to control the level of background noise in radio transmissions, ensuring that the main content was clearly audible above the noise. As technology advanced, the use of gates expanded into other areas of audio production, including music recording and live sound reinforcement.
One of the key developments in the history of gating was the introduction of the expander in the 1960s. This device, which is essentially a more sophisticated version of a gate, was designed to increase the dynamic range of a signal, making quiet sounds quieter and loud sounds louder. This allowed for greater control over the dynamics of a track, paving the way for the more advanced gating techniques used today.
Modern uses of gating
Today, gating is used in a wide variety of ways in music production. One of the most common uses is in drum recording, where gates are used to control the level of bleed from other drums and cymbals. By setting the threshold of the gate to only allow the sound of the intended drum to pass through, engineers can achieve a cleaner, more focused drum sound.
Gating is also common in electronic music production, where it is often used to create rhythmic effects. By applying a gate to a sustained sound and modulating the gate's threshold in time with the music, producers can create a pulsing effect that adds rhythm and movement to the track.
Types of gates
Several different types of gates are commonly used in music production, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. The most basic type is the hard gate, which abruptly cuts off the signal when it falls below the threshold. While this type of gate can be effective in certain situations, it can also result in a harsh, unnatural sound if not used carefully.
A more sophisticated type is the soft gate, which gradually reduces the level of the signal as it falls below the threshold. This results in a smoother, more natural sound, making it a popular choice for many music producers. Other types include the ducking gate, which reduces the level of one signal based on the level of another, and the sidechain gate, which uses the level of an external signal to control the gate's threshold.
1. Hard gates
Hard gates are the simplest type and are often used in situations where a sharp, abrupt cut-off is desired. This can be useful in situations where there is a high level of background noise, as the hard gate can effectively eliminate the noise when the main signal is not present.
Additionally, hard gates can be used creatively to create rhythmic effects or to shape the sound of a drum kit or other percussive instrument.
2. Soft gates
Soft gates often result in a smoother, more natural sound, making them a popular choice for many music producers. Soft gates are particularly useful when working with sustained sounds or complex musical material, as they can control the level of the signal without the harshness that can result from the abrupt cut-off of a hard gate.
One advantage of soft gates is their versatility. By adjusting the attack, hold, and release times of the gate, it is possible to shape the sound in a variety of ways, from subtly reducing the level of background noise to creating dramatic rhythmic effects. Additionally, because soft gates reduce the level of the signal gradually, they can be used to smooth out the dynamics of a track, making them a valuable tool in the mixing and mastering stages of music production.
