Expander and Gate Modules for Dynamics Control
The expander section increases the dynamic range of a signal rather than reducing it, which is the opposite of a compressor. The threshold sets the level at which the increase begins, and the ratio sets how much the signal is raised once it crosses that threshold.
Expansion is commonly used to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of a recording. It can also shape a sound, for example by making a bass line more percussive.
The gate module is a form of expander. When the signal reaches the threshold, the gate opens and lets the full signal pass, and below it the gate closes and blocks the signal. The developer notes this is useful for controlling noise, hum and other unwanted sound, and that the gate can also be used creatively as an effect.
