User`s manual

LTO LTO
TM
The numerical values are dB values representing the amount of level increase at the input that will result in a 1dB increase
at the output of that channel. So for example, selecting a value of 6.0 will mean that for every 6dB increase at the input,
the output will rise by approximately 1dB.
LIMITER is a very hard compression setting. It prevents the channel output from increasing by more than 1dB no matter
how much the level rises at its input.
Parameter Menus & System Set-up
How we use a compressor/limiter in a car is similar to the way broadcasters use them. Like the radio station,
we get our music delivered mostly on Compact Disc, so a degree of compression will have already been
applied at the recording stage. But the recording studio sound engineer has to ensure that he doesn't make
a $10,000 audio system sound like a $500 one. He has to be careful not to compress too much. This means
that the dynamic range from the CD will often still be too much for both broadcast use and playback at high
power on a car audio system. So, like the radio stations, we tailor the sound some more by applying our
own additional processing.
USEFUL USEFUL
TIPTIP
There are two things we are trying to achieve when we add compression or limit the signal. Firstly we want to protect
the speakers (and to a lesser degree the power amps) from exceeding their capabilities. They will sound better (less
distortion) and live longer.
The second thing is that we want to be able to free ourselves from having to constantly tweak the volume level. Road
and engine noise has a habit of masking parts of the music, and at those times we turn it up. Then in comes that Clapton
guitar solo and we grab the volume control and spin it down before our ears begin to hurt!
What our processor allows us to do is set our preferred upper level - it's like having your own DJ poised with her hand
over the volume control, ready to turn it down when the music gets uncomfortably loud. And because we have this to
automatically control things for us at the top end, we can raise the overall volume level, which increases the level of the
softer musical passages.
If you would like more information on Dynamic Gain Control and compressor/limiting, including set-up
advice, please visit our website support forum where you will find a technical paper available for download.
ADVANCEDADVANCED
TIPTIP