User Manual

SM PRO AUDIO CQ15/CQ31
optical compressor
The CQ15/CQ31 offers significantly greater functionality than traditional
graphic equalizers thanks to the inclusion of an optical compressor on each
audio channel. The compressor can be used to tame transient peaks without
needing to adjust the EQ, to tighten up the source signal’s low end, or to
smooth out a live mix—the applications are virtually limitless!
Comp
Use this rotary control to set the compression ratio. Ratio expresses the
constant difference between the input and output signal levels, with higher
ratios resulting in greater reductions in dynamic range. For example, a
compression ratio of 5:1 means that when the input level increases by 5dB,
the output level will increase by only 1dB.
Compression On/Off Switch & LED Indicator
Turns the compressor on or off. When off, the compression circuit is
completely removed from the signal path, i.e., true bypass.The LED shows
compressor’s on/off status.
Attack
Use to set the time (in milliseconds) it takes the compressor to respond to
the input signal and apply gain reduction. Set short attack times to control
the level of transients peaks. Longer attack times allow more signal to pass
through before the compressor engages, resulting in a punchier sound.
RELEASE
OPTICAL COMPRESSOR
COMP ATTACK BEQ
AEQ
1
5
10
50
100
0.1
0.2
0.3
3
2
1