Saturation

Overview

The term "saturation" is used to describe an "limiting" effect where little or no increase in output level results from an increase in input level above the "threshold." The main differences between "hard" or "brickwall" limiting and saturation are that the signal below the threshold basically linear and the lack of "attack and release" time constants found in traditional limiters and compressors. Above the threshold, all audio signals are affected instantaneously in the same level-dependent manner.

Basics

For more information; see soft saturation.