Control Peaks, Boost Loudness: Vocal Limiting Explained

Jan 21, 2025 | 16,928 Views

Limiters are traditionally used in mastering, taming the final peaks of a mix to ensure loudness and control without clipping. Many might consider it sacrilege to use a limiter anywhere else in the mix, especially on something as delicate and as natural as a vocal track, but in creative workflows there’s a saying: “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” What if this unconventional approach could solve common problems and improve your vocal tracks?

Video Chapters:

  • 0:00 - Why use a limiter on vocals?
  • 0:17 - Limiters vs Compressors - Differences and peak control explained
  • 1:02 - The role of peak control - Managing peaks for a better mix
  • 1:29 - Limiter placement - Why is it last in the vocal chain?
  • 3:49 – How to use a limiter on a vocal
  • 6:02 - Why Limiters help vocals - Creating headroom without distortion

In audio production, we have a variety of tools to manage dynamics and audio peaks. From gentle compressors to dynamic EQ just to name a few. Limiters, however, represent the most extreme tool to control peaks. While their aggressive nature might seem ill-suited for vocals, using them subtly can create valuable headroom later in the mix, which can help your vocals to sit more comfortably in the mix.

In this video, Jerry shows you how a limiter at end of a vocal chain helps him get super balanced vocal mixes. You’ll learn how this approach reduces peaks without compromising a vocal's natural sound, prevents overloading the master limiter, and helps achieve a louder and cleaner overall mix.

To learn more about the limiters Waves provides, including the L1 featured in this video, check out our plugin page.

Watch Next: How to Limit Your Mixes and Masters: Ultimate Guide to Peak Limiters - If you’re looking to dive deeper into the world of limiter plugins, check out this video as well which breaks down how to use any limiter effectively during mastering and mixing. This video also demonstrates the key differences between our popular L1, L2, and L3 limiters.

Every plugin featured in this video along with over 230 others are included as part of Waves Creative Access. Giving you the ultimate collection of industry-leading tools for vocal processing, mixing, mastering and more, Waves Creative Access is your one-stop-shop for everything audio – Free trial for 7 days.

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