Oversampling is processing audio at a higher multiple of the sample rate than you are working at: The higher, the more accurate.
But oversampling can be very CPU intensive and cause performance issues if too high of a rate is used.
Thus there are cases where resources should be allocated primarily to plugins and tools that should benefit the most of oversampling !
In this post, we’ll quickly review how oversampling works, as well as why and when it can be a great option to reduce distortion and subtly increase the clarity of your signal.
WHAT IS OVERSAMPLING?
Simply put, oversampling is processing audio at a higher multiple (2, 4, 8, 16…) of the sample rate than you are working at:
The higher, the more accurate.


WHEN TO USE IT?
Oversampling is recommended for plugins that change the shape of a waveform, or create new harmonic content.
Allowing such plugins to internally run at higher sample rates should improve their accuracy, and avoid what’s called aliasing and distortion.
OVERSAMPLING ON PLUGINS
Synthesizers, Saturators, Limiters, Compressors , EQ and Dynamic EQs should most likely benefit oversampling for better, cleaner results:
Since oversampling increases CPU load, you should allocate your resources to these in priority.
Oversampling in XFer Serum

Oversampling in Soothe 2

Oversampling in Fabfilter plugins

Oversampling in Venn Audio Freeclip (Free audio clipper !)
