limiter

A limiter is a circuit or effect that reduces gain above a set threshold, with variable gain reduction and an adjustable knee¹. In a signal chain it controls the maximum output signal level², and it can be used to tame unruly results from a boost³ or to control a bass guitar's dynamic range⁴,⁵. Pedals described as limiters or compressor/limiters are noted for qualities such as transparency, low noise, and studio-grade clarity⁶,⁷,⁸, and some can deliver squish or act as a sustainer⁹,¹⁰.