Is it normal to use a clipper instead of a limiter?

No, when dealing with high signal levels a clipper is going to create distortion. A clipper can be used pre limiter/compressor. Usually on the master output you may add a compressor to maintain the perceived volume level while reducing the over all level to the range you want.

1. Is limiter and clipper same?
2. Does a limiter cause clipping?
3. Should I always use a limiter?

Is limiter and clipper same?

The main difference between clipper and limiter is that the clipper will cut the audio signal at a certain level. It's simply clipping the audio signal. On the flipside, with Limiter, you can control the audio signal by setting up: attack, release, sustain, look-ahead, style, amount of transient, etc.

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.

Should I always use a limiter?

However, limiters can be extremely helpful in certain situations, and are often used in the mastering process. While there's no one “right” way to use a limiter, a good rule of thumb is to set a fairly high threshold, so that not all of your dynamics are reduced.