Simple Explanation

Automatically adjusts volume to keep loud and quiet parts under control.

Concise Technical Definition

The use of audio equipment or software to manipulate the amplitude of an audio signal over time, often through compression, limiting, expansion, or gating.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like an automatic hand on your volume knob—keeping loud parts from being too loud and soft parts from getting lost.

Industry Usage Summary

Common in recording, broadcasting, and live sound to control audio levels, improve clarity, and protect equipment.

Engineering Shortcut

Volume control via real-time gain adjustment (e.g., compressors/expanders).

Full Technical Explanation

Dynamics processing involves altering the amplitude envelope of an audio signal using tools like compressors (which reduce loud peaks), limiters (which prevent signals from exceeding a set threshold), expanders (which increase the difference between quiet and loud sounds), and gates (which mute signals below a threshold). It enhances clarity, balances mix levels, and protects against overload in audio systems. Often automated in digital audio workstations (DAWs) and embedded in hardware processors in live and studio setups.