TL Audio 5052 - Manual (Page 16)

design, as with other TL Audio compressors, uses a technology based around a
transconductance amplifier rather than a VCA design. This transconductance
amplifier design is known for being able to retain the full frequency range and natural
character of the audio signal, even when compressing the signal quite heavily. The
Ivory 5052 is also capable of more severe compression based around the optional
Hard Knee mode if this is desired.
There are other benefits of compression as well as just controlling the peaks and
raising the quiet parts, applied properly, it can add punch and excitement to music,
as well as fattening up sounds and creating a more professional sounding recording.
With the 5052, you have the added benefit of valve stages in the signal path, which
create a warmth and presence just not obtainable with solid state or digital products.
4.12 Why Valve Compression?
Valve compression yields a particularly special sound which has become very sought
after, particularly with the widespread use of digital products. The reason valve
equipment sounds special is due to two things: harmonic distortion and natural
compression. When the signal through a valve is increased, it tends to generate a
particular type of subtle and desirable distortion, called “second harmonic”
distortion. This has the effect of thickening and warming the sound, and the more
the level you feed to the valve stages, the more of this harmonic distortion will be
produced. You should be able to hear this effect as you increase the Input Gain on
the 5052.
Secondly, valves will tend to naturally compress an audio signal, again particularly as
the signal level is increased. This itself also contributes to the warmth produced by
the 5052.
4.13 Overview of Compressor Operation.
To operate the 5052 compressor successfully an understanding of each control will
help to obtain the best results. If you are unfamiliar with the effect of compression it
may help to adjust the controls to extreme settings and listen to the sonic effect.
Compressors can either be used to enhance the signal and control the dynamic
range with as little sonic effect as possible, or they can be used more severely
specifically for effect.