Which device is commonly used to prevent distortion in audio signals?

The device that is commonly used to prevent distortion in audio signals is a compressor. A compressor works by controlling the dynamic range of audio signals. It reduces the volume of the loudest parts of a signal while allowing the quieter parts to remain unaffected or less compressed. This process helps to smooth out the overall sound, preventing peaks from exceeding the desired level, which can lead to distortion.

Compressors are particularly useful in music production and live sound settings where maintaining clarity and balance in audio is crucial. By preventing distortion, compressors ensure that the audio remains clean and intelligible, allowing for a better listening experience. This makes the compressor an essential tool for audio engineers looking to maintain signal integrity across various playback systems.

While equalizers, reverb units, and crossovers have distinct roles in audio processing, such as adjusting frequencies, adding ambiance, or splitting signals into different frequency ranges for different speakers, they do not specifically focus on preventing distortion in the way a compressor does.