Clipper or limiter first

Most engineers recommend using a clipper before a final limiter. The reason for that is that most limiter plugins have a function that allows the user to handle ISP (InterSample Peaks). The right level in mastering comes from a good balance between limiting and clipping.

1. Should I use a soft clipper or limiter?
2. What is the difference between clipping and limiting?
3. Does a limiter cause clipping?
4. When should a limiter be used?

Should I use a soft clipper or limiter?

Soft clipping is still clipping, but with a slightly less aggressive onset of clipping: essentially a combination of limiting prior to clipping. ... Limiting is an altogether much more controlled business, where a loud signal is briefly attenuated, specifically to avoid clipping.

What is the difference between clipping and limiting?

Essentially, clipping happens when gain structure receives more than it can handle while limiting is the controlled process of gain reduction to avoid clipping in the first place. Although different, both are non-linear processes and both introduce distortion products.

Does a limiter cause clipping?

To avoid clipping, you might consider using a limiter. Set correctly, this will prevent the signal level reaching 0 dBFS, so no clipping can occur. ... Every time a loud section comes along, you lower the level so that the signal stays within bounds. When it goes quiet again, you can raise the level back up again.

When should a limiter be used?

A limiter, however, is usually used for one reason: to catch the loudest moments of a source, bringing them down in a way that a) protects against unwanted distortion, and b) maintains the integrity of the mix's overall balance/color.