Limited-S

Limited-S is a high quality De-Esser, Enhancer and harshness controller designed for use in both mixing and mastering applications. Limited-S uses a different approach than typical De-Essers, Dynamic EQs, etc. Limited-S does not use a traditional, and often “slurpy”, compressor-type Attack/Decay level detector. Instead Limited-S uses a Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter that exactly calculates the envelope of the signal at all times. There is no need to fuss with attack and decay settings to get acceptable results. When Threshold and Ratio are set properly, de-essing action will be completely transparent in most cases. All you will hear is less sibilance.

Limited-S is a “fixed threshold” type De-Esser that works on peak signal levels much like a limiter. It does not attempt to track the overall signal and attenuate what it “thinks” is excessive sibilance. De-Essers of that type tend to overcompress leading sibilance (producing lisping) while under-controlling trailing sibilance. Limited-S, instead, only catches the loudest and most offensive sibilance peaks. (The threshold can be automated if desired).When used on stereo tracks, Limited-S can operate on the full mix, just the Mids, just the Sides or just Left or Right. This allows applications in both mixing and mastering such as de-essing of vocals in a master (typically centered) while leaving the sides untouched. Limited-S’s High Lift control allows adding brightness to a mix while simultaneously controlling excessive high frequencies. Great on vocals or for brightening a master.

Limited-S also includes a Sidechain input that allows one signal source to “duck” the highs in another signal source. This can be used, for example, to keep a vocal clear during cymbal crashes, etc.