Avoid Digital Clipping and Distortion

Digital distortion can ruin an otherwise great master. Understand the difference between peak levels and overall volume, and learn how to use limiters safely to get a loud, clean audio export.

What Is Digital Clipping?

In digital audio, 0 dBFS (Decibels Full Scale) is the absolute maximum level possible. If your audio signal tries to exceed 0 dBFS, the tops of the sound waves get flat-topped (clipped), creating harsh, crackling digital distortion.

3 Steps to Stop Distortion in Its Tracks

1. Set Your Limiter Ceiling Below 0 dB

Never set your final limiter output ceiling to exactly 0.0 dB. Always set it to -0.3 dB or -0.5 dB. This slight cushion prevents distortion when your track is converted into formats like MP3 or AAC for web playback.

2. Watch Your Gain Staging

If your mix is already hitting 0 dB on the master fader before you even add plugins, turn down all your individual track faders or use a gain plugin to bring your mix down to peak around -6 dB.

3. Trust Your Ears Over Meters

If the limiter meter says you aren't clipping, but you hear crunchiness or pumping on the kick drum, pull back the limiter input.