An
audio expander is the complement to a
compressor, in that it expands the
dynamic range of a performance.
Usually applied to a single
instrument, or sub-
mix, the expander contains a
VCA which is controlled by the level of the
input. As the
level of the input raises, the amplifier is turned higher; as the level drops, the amplification is lowered. The speed of
attack and
decay, and the
extent of the amplification (called
slope) are typically controllable.
The
net effect of the device is to pass the
input to
output with a
disproportionate effect on the level.
Loud sounds come out very loud, and
quiet sounds very quiet. It may be applied to a particulary non-
expressive voice to add interest.