What Is Sibilance?
Updated October 2026
Sibilance is the sharp hiss on s, sh, z and ch sounds. It sits high in the frequency range, and a close mic or a bright voice can make it harsh.
The short version
- Sibilance is the hiss of s, sh, z and ch sounds.
- It sits roughly between 4 and 9 kHz.
- A close mic, a bright voice or compression can make it harsh.
- Tame it with a de-esser or a narrow cut, not by removing the highs.
The short definition
Sibilance is the sharp, hissing energy in consonants such as s, sh, z and ch. It is part of speech and needs to stay clear, but too much makes a voice harsh.
Causes
A close mic, a bright voice, a sensitive condenser mic and compression can all make sibilance stand out. Some people produce more of it than others.
Fixes
A de-esser reduces the sibilant band only when it is loud. A narrow cut can help if the problem sits in one place. The de-esser explanation and the de-essing guide cover the setting.
Soften the s, keep the words
Tunedzy’s voice chain includes a de-esser that acts only on harsh sibilance.
Free tools for this
Frequently asked questions
Is sibilance a fault?
No, it is part of speech. Only too much is a problem.
Should I remove all sibilance?
No. Remove the harsh peaks, and keep the clarity.
Why is my voice sibilant on phones?
Phone speakers can exaggerate the high range. Check on a phone speaker.
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