Why Audio Clips Even with a Limiter: Mix and Mastering Checks

Clipping Even with a Limiter?

A limiter or maximizer is often used to control loudness and prevent clipping,
but distortion can still occur after inserting one.

Here are some troubleshooting steps.

Troubleshooting

Case 1: Master Track Volume Fader

For the setup shown here, set the master fader to 0 dB when exporting.
Lowering it reduces the output level; raising it after the limiter can cause clipping.

Case 2: Effects Placed After the Limiter

This happens when an effect is inserted after the limiter or maximizer.

The limiter may keep the signal just below the clipping level,
but a later effect can raise the level and cause clipping.

Case 3: Using the Channel Strip

The channel strip is applied at the position outlined in red.

The principle is the same as in Case 2:
placing the limiter or maximizer after the channel strip—in slot 7 or 8 in this example—can solve the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why does my audio clip even with a limiter?

An effect after the limiter can raise the level of the limited signal and cause clipping. Check the signal path and place the limiter after any processing that might increase the level.

Q2. Where should I set the master fader?

In the setup shown, use 0 dB as the reference when exporting. Lowering the fader reduces the output level; raising a post-limiter fader can cause clipping. The effect of the fader depends on its position in the signal path.

Q3. Where should I place the limiter when using the channel strip?

In this example, put the limiter or maximizer after the channel strip and other level-changing effects, using slot 7 or 8. This lets it control peaks at the end of the illustrated signal chain.