Simple Explanation

A tool that removes deep bass sounds while letting higher-pitched sounds through.

Concise Technical Definition

A filter that attenuates frequencies below a defined cutoff frequency and allows those above it to pass, often used to reduce low-end rumble or protect speakers.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like a strainer that blocks large pasta (bass) but lets small grains (treble) pass through.

Industry Usage Summary

Common in mixing consoles, speaker crossovers, and audio processing to remove low-frequency noise or prevent speaker overload; also known as a "low-cut" filter.

Engineering Shortcut

HPF = passes highs, cuts lows; defined by cutoff freq and slope.

Full Technical Explanation

A High Pass Filter (HPF) is an electronic or digital filter that removes or attenuates frequencies below a certain cutoff frequency while allowing higher frequencies to pass. It is characterized by a slope (e.g., 6, 12, or 24 dB/octave) that determines how sharply low frequencies are attenuated. HPFs are widely used in audio systems to eliminate unwanted low-frequency noise (e.g., rumble, hum) or to protect small speakers and tweeters from damaging bass content. In recording and live sound, HPFs are often applied to vocal mics and instruments to clean up mixes. Infrasonic filters are a form of high-pass filter designed to remove sub-audible content (below ~20 Hz).