What it changes in the music
Gain can affect level before or after a processor. Its location matters because a nonlinear or level-dependent device may respond differently when its input changes. Output gain can then compensate for a level change without recreating the original processing behavior. Distinguish the point in the chain you are adjusting when comparing tone, dynamics or headroom.
A small experiment
Change the input gain of a saturation or compression stage, then compensate at its output. Compare the character at similar apparent listening levels.
Keep this distinction clear
Input gain, output gain and the track fader may all change level, but their positions in the signal path can produce different processing results.
Related sound terms
Technical background
- Ableton Live manual: mixing — Meters, level, pan, sends and returns.
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