Difference between revisions of "Non-linear"
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
The term "<nowiki>non-linear</nowiki>" is used to describe a process where the output is not directly proportional to the input. [[Clipping]] is an example of a non-linear process. | The term "<nowiki>non-linear</nowiki>" is used to describe a process where the output is not directly proportional to the input. [[Clipping]] is an example of a non-linear process. | ||
Revision as of 17:00, 28 March 2012
Overview
The term "non-linear" is used to describe a process where the output is not directly proportional to the input. Clipping is an example of a non-linear process.
Basics
A non-linear process in audio is usually characterized as a form of “distortion.” Some examples are clipping, analog tape saturation, "hard limiting" with very fast attack and release times, or distortion caused by transformers or tubes. Another example is a bad galvanic connection (between metal contacts), which can sometimes act in a manner similar to a diode and only allow signals above a certain level to "pass" normally.
Non-linear processes can also take the form of digital emulation of analog circuitry such as emulation of tubes, transformers, or analog tape.