What’s the difference between volume and gain?

In music production, volume and gain are important concepts that may seem similar but are actually different. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for quality music production. Below, we explain the characteristics and differences of each in detail.

Volume

Volume is the final stage control for adjusting the loudness of sound.

Characteristics:

• Positioned at the end of the signal chain
• Determines the final volume heard by the listener
• Measured in decibels (dB)
• Changes the loudness of sound without affecting sound quality

Usage examples:

• Adjusting track balance during mixing
• Adjusting overall volume during mastering
• Adjusting playback volume to suit the listening environment

Gain

Gain is a control that amplifies or attenuates the strength or amplitude of a signal.

Characteristics:

• Applied at an early stage in the signal chain
• Changes the strength of the input signal
• Measured in decibels (dB)
• Can potentially affect the characteristics and quality of the signal

Usage examples:

• Amplifying input signal in microphone preamps
• Adjusting signal level before effect processing such as compressors and equalizers
• Adjusting the intensity of overdrive or distortion effects

Main differences:

Application stage:

• Gain: Applied early in the signal chain
• Volume: Applied at the end of the signal chain

Impact on sound quality:

• Gain: Can potentially change signal characteristics
• Volume: Usually does not affect sound quality

Purpose:

• Gain: Optimizes signal strength and provides appropriate input level for subsequent processing
• Volume: Adjusts final output level and balances overall sound

In music production, properly using gain and volume can create clear and powerful music. The general workflow is to optimize signal strength with gain and then adjust the final volume balance with volume controls.