Attack time

nounStandard termElectronics

The duration it takes for a signal processing circuit to react to an input exceeding its threshold.

This parameter measures how quickly a dynamic circuit, such as a compressor or automatic gain control, responds to a sudden increase in signal amplitude. A short duration clamps transients almost instantly, while a longer duration lets the initial punch of the signal pass through before gain reduction kicks in.

Heard on the job

Increase the attack time on the limiter so the drum transients don't get completely squashed.