problem
Limiter distortion usually means the limiter is being asked to solve too much at once.
A limiter reduces peaks by changing the waveform near the ceiling. When gain reduction is heavy or extremely fast, that change can become audible as crunch, fizz, or flattened transients.
Low-frequency material is especially sensitive because aggressive limiting can reshape long bass waves in a way that sounds like distortion.
Compare the limited and bypassed signal at matched loudness so louder does not automatically sound better. Then watch where gain reduction spikes and which instruments trigger it.
If distortion appears only on kick hits, bass notes, or vocal peaks, fix those sources before pushing the limiter harder.
Lower input gain, use gentler clip or compression stages before the limiter, adjust release behavior, or leave more true-peak margin. The goal is less emergency gain reduction at the final stage.
Meter Core keeps peak and loudness movement visible while you find a cleaner balance between loudness and damage.