Technical data
12
Stereo Compression
In order to get a rst impression of the sonic qualities and the control characteristics of the alpha
compressor, only the controllers highlighted in the gure are used. The functions that are cur-
rently not needed should be deactivated (related LEDs do not glow). Et voilà: We have a classic
linked stereo compressor!
A track with a broad dynamic range is the best material for a rst test. Just start playing with the
threshold, attack, release and ratio parameters of the left channel in order to get to know the con-
trol behavior of the compressor. Allow yourself to take some time for this, as the understanding of
the basic control characteristics is the most important condition for perfect results.
Keep having a look at the gain reduction meters from time to time. No doubt: the ear is the de-
cisive benchmark. Just consider the optical information as a supporting means to evaluate the
compression process (fast/slow, strong/weak, etc.).
The levels of the compressed signals can be made up by adding an appropriate amount of ampli-
cation with the gain controllers. Since the link function will only aect the control voltage of the
compressor, the gain controllers of both channels should be set to the same values in stereo link
mode. For instant A/B comparisons just push the active button.
Note: If the threshold controller produces too little gain reduction when turned hard right or too
much of it when turned hard left, please go to page 26 and see how to adjust the internal thresh-
old.
Soft Clip
Gain Reduction
M/S Mode
Active Channel Link
Mix
Gain
EQ Freq
Hz
SC Gain
dB
SC Freq
EQ Gain
Auto Fast
Feed Forward
On
Auto Fast
x10
On
Transformer
Direct
Compressed
On
Thresh Attack Release Ratio
Soft Clip
Mix
Gain
EQ Freq
SC Gain
dB
EQ Gain
Auto Fast
Feed Forward
On
Auto Fast
x10
On
Transformer
Direct
Compressed
On
Thresh
Attack
ms
Release
ms
Ratio
1:X
Soft Clip
SC Freq
BASICS – Stereo Compression
Left
Input
Compressor
Sidechain
Gain
Stage
Left
Output
Right
Input
Compressor
Gain
Stage
Right
Output
BASICS