User Manual

Threshold is defined by the Ratio. The higher the ratio, the higher the threshold (meaning
that compression starts at a higher level). Ratio also influences the compression curve,
which will be harder (closer to the behavior of a limiter) at higher ratios.
The All button is a special case, where all the ratios are activated at the same time. The
original units didn't have this button but they allowed to press more than one ratio button
(or all ratio buttons) at the same time. It happens users found that and liked the effect. It
creates a very flat compressor response, together with some added distortion. Applied to
drums, the effect is a smashed dynamic range with added partials, creating a huge sound.
Applied to guitars and bass, it creates a distorted, grungy effect. Try it.
Another special case is the "No button", where the unit will not apply any compression, being
used just as an amplifier, taking advantage of its pleasant coloring and saturation. This may
also be achieved, using the Compression Range control [p.27] in the Advanced Mode. By
setting that control to a value of 0 dB we null the compression, therefore leaving just the
gain circuit active.
4.2.7. Threshold
The threshold is one of the most important controls in a compressor unit. As it happens
with many similarly important controllers, what it does is deceptively simple: It just tells the
compressor when to start working (compressing).
The FET-76 has a threshold, but it hasn't a threshold control. The unit is program dependent,
which means compression varies according to the volume of the incoming audio. Threshold
is tied to the ratio. The higher the ratio, the higher the threshold. The difference between
them is around 6 dB. Compression curve is also influenced by the ratio, which means:
• Lower ratios - softer compression curve - lower threshold;
• Higher ratios - harder compression curve - higher threshold.
As the input level is turned up, a corresponding decrease in output level may be required.
This is where enters the Link parameter.
20 Arturia - User Manual Comp FET-76 - COMP FET-76 CONTROL PANEL