What is a Gate (Noise Gate)?

A gate, often called a noise gate, is an audio processing tool used in recording and mixing to control unwanted background noise or quiet sounds in an audio signal. It works by automatically reducing or muting the audio when the signal falls below a specified volume level.

A noise gate uses a threshold setting to determine when the audio should pass through and when it should be reduced or silenced. If the incoming signal is louder than the threshold, the gate opens and allows the sound to be heard. If the signal drops below the threshold, the gate closes and reduces or cuts off the audio.

Noise gates are commonly used on microphones, drums, and guitar recordings to remove background noise, room sound, or unwanted bleed from other instruments. By controlling quiet portions of a recording, a gate can help produce a cleaner and more focused audio track in a mix.