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Audio engineering · Recording

Attenuator (electronics)

What is attenuator (electronics)? A clear definition from the audio engineering and recording section of our glossary, with 12 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Attenuator (electronics)

An attenuator is a passive broadband electronic device that reduces the power of a signal without appreciably distorting its waveform.

An attenuator is effectively the opposite of an amplifier, though the two work by different methods. While an amplifier provides gain, an attenuator provides loss, or gain less than unity. An attenuator is often referred to as a "pad" in audio electronics.

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What is Attenuator (electronics)?

An attenuator is a passive broadband electronic device that reduces the power of a signal without appreciably distorting its waveform.

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