PreSonus BlueMAX - Manual (Page 10)

Sidechain
The sidechain jack on each channel interrupts the signal that the compressor is using to
determine the amount of gain reduction to apply. When no connector is inserted into this jack,
the input signal goes directly to the compressors control circuitry. When a connector is
inserted into this jack, the signal path is broken. If you have inserted a tip-ring-sleeve
connector, the input signal is sent back out of the Blue Max via the tip of the connector. This
signal can then be processed by an equalizer for example to reduce sibilance (de-essing) in a
vocal track. The signal is then returned to the unit via the sleeve of the connector.
The signal sent to the sleeve could be that of a narrator or vocalist. In this application, the
audio that you are passing through the compressor will automatically ‘duck’ when the narrator
speaks or vocalist sings.
+4/-10 Switch
This switch adjusts the internal operating level of your Blue Max when it is connected to line
level (0dB =
-10dBV) gear. With the switch in the’ -10’ position, the signal is raised internally
so that it is processed at the lower noise floor of your Blue Max’s internal circuitry. The signal
level is lowered on the way out to match up with your line level gear’s input. When the switch
is in the ‘+4’ position, the signal is not changed since this matches the internal operating level
of your Blue Max.
This function may also be useful in creating special effects with the compressor and gate of
the channel by ‘overcompressing’.
2.3 PRESETS
Vocal
1 SOFT - Easy compression. A low ratio setting for ballads allowing a wider dynamic range.
Good for ‘live’ use. This setting lets the vocal sit ‘in the track’.
Threshold Ratio Attack Release
-8.2dB 1.8:1 0.002mS 38mS
2 MEDIUM - More limiting than preset 1 for a narrower dynamic range. It moves the vocal
more up front in the mix.
Threshold Ratio Attack Release
-3.3dB 2.8:1 0.002mS 38mS
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