How can you use noise gates to reduce background noise?

1 What are noise gates?

Noise gates are audio processors that control the level of a signal based on its loudness. They have two main parameters: threshold and ratio. The threshold is the level below which the signal is affected by the noise gate. The ratio is the amount of attenuation applied to the signal when it is below the threshold. For example, if you set the threshold to -40 dB and the ratio to 10:1, any signal that is quieter than -40 dB will be reduced by 10 dB for every 1 dB below the threshold.

2 How do noise gates work?

Noise gates work by comparing the input signal with the threshold level. If the input signal is louder than the threshold, the noise gate does nothing and lets the signal pass through. If the input signal is quieter than the threshold, the noise gate applies the ratio and reduces the volume of the signal. This way, noise gates can filter out low-level sounds, such as background noise, hum, hiss, or breaths, while preserving the main sound source, such as vocals, instruments, or speech.

3 How to use noise gates in your audio software?

Most audio software, such as Audacity, GarageBand, or Pro Tools, have built-in noise gate effects that you can apply to your audio tracks. To use a noise gate, you must first select the audio track. Then, open the noise gate effect and adjust the threshold and ratio settings. These settings can be left at default or tweaked according to your needs and preferences. After listening to the audio track, check to see if the noise gate is working properly. The main sound source should be heard clearly and the background noise should be reduced or eliminated. If you are not satisfied with the result, you can fine-tune the noise gate settings or try a different threshold or ratio. Additionally, parameters such as attack, release, and hold can be used to control how fast the noise gate opens and closes and how long it stays open or closed.