User Manual

4.3.2. Side-Chain Equalizer
Modern compressors offer the possibility to sculpt the sound by manipulating some
frequencies (boost/cut high frequencies, for example) prior to detection, This way, we can
avoid some compression artifacts these frequencies could cause.
To do this, we need to route the sound through an EQ before it enters the detection circuit.
This is why the EQ is positioned first in the detection path, right after the sound splits
between main signal and detection signal.
The EQ included in these compressors is a very simple EQ (semi-parametric), with a single
band featuring adjustable Gain and Frequency, complemented with a Low-Pass Filter and a
High-Pass Filter. This is exactly what's needed for the intended role.
The High Pass Filter has a fixed slope of -12dB/Octave, and a selectable continuous
frequency ranging from 20 Hz to 1.2 kHz. By default it is Off (the knob has an extra position
at the far left that turns the filter Off).
The Low Pass Filter has also a fixed slope of -12dB/Octave, and a selectable continuous
frequency ranging from 3 kHz to 20 kHz); By default it is also Off (the knob has an extra
position at the far right that turns the filter Off).
The EQ band has two controls: one for the Frequency and another for the Gain (frequency
range is fixed). Frequency control goes from 30 Hz to 16 kHz, and defaults to around 700 Hz.
Gain goes from -12 dB to +12 dB, and defaults to 0. The bandwidth is variable, and dependent
on the gain applied - the more gain is applied, the narrower will become the bandwidth.
The entire EQ section can be turned On or Off by clicking the button switch bellow the main
controls. When the EQ is turned On, the the green "LED" light next to the button switch will
turn On. By default, the EQ section is turned Off.

♪: If you set the EQ to frequencies in the region between 4 kHz and 8 kHz, you can make the unit act
like a de-esser.
The Comp VCA-65 Equalizer
Arturia - User Manual Comp VCA-65 - COMP VCA-65 CONTROL PANEL 27