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Bitcrush

Audio

Bit-depth reduction and sample-rate decimation effect.

Combines two lo-fi effects: bit crushing (quantizing amplitude to fewer levels) and sample-rate reduction (sample-and-hold decimation). Together they produce the characteristic "retro digital" sound of early samplers and video game consoles.

The effect is mono — stereo signals should be split first.

Tips

  • Automate bits with an LFO for evolving texture. Values below 4 get aggressive.
  • Set rate to match a classic sampler (8000 Hz = telephone, 22050 Hz = early CD-ROM).

Parameters

NameTypeRangeDefaultDescription
bitsNumber of quantization levels (2^bits). Lower = crunchier.
rateTarget sample rate for decimation. Lower = more aliasing artifacts.
mixDry/wet blend. 0 = bypass, 1 = fully crushed.

Inputs

NameTypeDescription
inputMono audio signal to process.

Outputs

NameTypeDescription
outputThe crushed signal.

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