What’s the Difference Between the Oxford Inflator and the Oxford Limiter’s Enhance Fader?

Although the Oxford Inflator and the Enhance fader in the Oxford Limiter can both increase the perceived loudness of your audio, they are fundamentally different processes.

This guide explains what each does, how they differ, and when you might choose one over the other.

1. Oxford Limiter

The Oxford Limiter is typically the last plug‑in in your signal chain for mastering or final mix processing.
It provides:

• Transparent level control or loudness maximisation

• Look‑ahead limiting with adaptive timing

• Accurate sidechain processing

• Inter‑sample peak detection and correction

• Comprehensive dithering options

The Limiter’s Enhance fader:

• A dynamic process — reacts to the programme over time.

• Works on programme history, peak & average levels, and stereo differences.

• Does not add distortion to steady‑state signals.

• Allows you to transparently reduce peaks or push loudness without sample overs.

• Preserves the impression of transient peaks even when limiting aggressively.

2. Oxford Inflator

The Oxford Inflator is a harmonic enhancement and loudness tool that can be placed almost anywhere in your mix or mastering chain.
It is designed to:

• Increase loudness without pumping or loss of presence

• Add tube‑like warmth and dynamic excitement

• Preserve percussive attack and overall clarity

The Inflator process:

• A static process — does not react dynamically over time.

• Generates a form of harmonic distortion that increases harmonic density.

• Gives the psychoacoustic impression of loudness by mimicking cues we associate with “loud” or “stressed” sounds.

• Works well on almost any material — from full mixes to individual tracks.

Key Differences — At a Glance

Practical Usage Tips

• Use the Inflator when you want to add character and warmth while increasing loudness.

• Use the Limiter’s Enhance when you want to push level transparently at the final stage without affecting tonal character.

• In mastering, some engineers use both — Inflator first for tone, Limiter last for level control.

Related Documentation

• Oxford Limiter User Guide

• Oxford Inflator User Guide