They are generally designed with a one or two touch easy-click operation and a programmable 'stack limit'. This feature has the advantage of allowing the user to vary the level of distortion, making noise gate's a very versatile piece of equipment. The threshold can be set to a maximum value, which will stop the signal from clipping altogether after a certain 'time' period. Noise gates use complex mathematical algorithms to determine the threshold signal, which is basically a measure of maximum distortion of any signal. They also have a special characteristic of being able to generate limiting automation. Noise gate plug-ins are also useful in recording long audio pieces to make them appear shorter.
For instance, it is sometimes used in conjunction with a compressor or limiter to remove excessive kick drum sound. Noise gate can be used to 'stretch out' high sounds that are not important enough to warrant separate processing time. NOISE GATE is an easy-to-use noise gate VST Plugin - simple audio noise reduction ('c cancellation') beyond the ordinary limits of audio mixing - useful for music recording or mixing where a high volume level is desired.
