Universal Audio 2-1176 Dual 1176LN - Manual (Page 25)

The Technical Stuff
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1.
While in Link mode, send stereo signal to the 2-1176 but monitor the left channel only.
2.
In the left channel of the 2-1176 only, set the Ratio switch as desired and adjust the Input
and Output knobs until the desired amount of compression or limiting is heard.
3.
Duplicate those same settings in the right channel of the 2-1176 and then begin monitoring
both channels, in stereo.
4.
Set the 2-1176 to Dual mode and mute the stereo source. Instead run a steady-state test
signal through both channels.
5.
Set the Meter switch for both channels to +4, then adjust the lower of the two Input knobs so
that the output on both meters is identical.
6.
Finally, disconnect the test signal and restore the original stereo signal.
One byproduct of this circuit design is that it allows you to make the gain reduction circuitry more
sensitive to one channel than the other. Thus, for example, if you set the Input knob for the left channel
considerably higher (turned more clockwise) than the right channel, the compressor will be more
sensitive to transients occurring in the left channel. This can sometimes be useful in broadcast
applications, where you might want to “duck” a musical bed—for example, whenever an announcer is
speaking. (

see page 14 for more information.)
Making A Custom Insert Cable
In order to ensure unity gain, the input and output to a compressor are normally derived from a mixer
channel or bus insert send and return. However, most mixing consoles provide such inserts on
unbalanced TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve) connectors, with the tip carrying the send and the ring carrying the
return, with the sleeve serving as common ground. Premade “insert” Y-cables that provide a single
TRS plug on one end and two XLR connectors on the other end are readily available for this purpose.
However, it can be considerably more cost-effective to make your own custom insert cable—something
which requires only basic soldering skills and a few inexpensive parts.

When operating the 2-1176 in Link mode, the left channel’s Attack and Release controls
become master controls and the right channel’s Attack and Release controls become
non-functional.

When operating the 2-1176 in Link mode, both channels should normally be set to the
same Ratios as well as to similar Input and Output levels.