Dynamics Plug-Ins : Maxim : Using Maxim

Using Maxim
Following are suggestions for using Maxim most effectively.
To use Maxim:
1 Insert Maxim on the desired track.
2 Select the portion of the track containing the most prominent audio peaks.
3 Loop playback and look at the data displayed by the Histogram and Attenuator meter.
4 Select the Link button to link the Threshold and Ceiling controls. You can then adjust these controls together proportionally and, using the Bypass button, compare the audio with and without limiting.
5 Adjust the Threshold downwards until you hear and see limiting occur, then bring the Threshold back up slightly until you have roughly the amount of limiting you want.
6 Periodically click and clear the Attenuation meter to check attenuation. In general, applying 2 dB to 4 dB of attenuation to occasional peaks in pop-oriented material is appropriate.
7 Use the Bypass button to compare the processed and unprocessed sound and to check if the results are acceptable.
8 Avoid pumping effects with heavier limiting by setting the Release slider to longer values.
9 When you get the effect you want, deselect the Link button and raise the output level with the Ceiling slider to maximize signal levels without clipping.
In general, a value of 0.5 dB or so is a good maximum ceiling. Don’t set the ceiling to zero, since the digital-to-analog convertors on some DATs and CD players will clip at or slightly below zero.
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If you are using Maxim on an output mix that will be faded out, enable the dithering options you want to improve the signal performance of the material as it fades to lower amplitudes.