TL Audio A3 - Manual (Page 14)

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of an audio signal. This is known as reducing the “dynamic range” of that signal and is
a powerful tool for an engineer helping to avoid overloading, distortion problems as
well as raising the level of the quieter parts of the audio signal. Before the introduction
of compressors the only way this could be achieved was by “gain riding”, whereby an
engineer would control the fader manually in order to try and anticipate very large
levels (which might distort the signal) or very low levels (which may get lost in noise).
The introduction of compression devices meant that this process could be controlled
automatically, allowing the engineer to get on with more productive jobs!
Many instruments and voices have a very wide dynamic range that need to be
controlled. A singer, for instance, may be singing quietly one moment and very loudly
the next, and unless compression is applied the vocal won’t “sit” correctly in the mix,
in addition to the problems of distortion on loud passages and noise on quiet ones.
Compressors effectively turn down the loud bits and turn up the quiet bits, to achieve a
more even and controllable level.
Compressors are often judged by their ability to control the dynamics without creating
noticeable audible side effects. Heavy compression can cause the signal to pump or
breathe with the onset and release of the compression.
Some compressor designs can dull the signal and lose the top end of the signal. The
Ebony A3 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 Ebony A3, you have pristine Discrete Class A audio with the added benefit of a
valve stage that can be activated into the input stage of the signal path; this then offers
a warmth, clarity and presence just not obtainable with solid state or digital products.
Overview of Compressor Operation.
To operate the Ebony A3 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. Generally
compressors are used in two different ways: either to enhance the signal and control
the dynamic range as unobtrusively as possible, or used more severely to specifically
to create an effect.
Threshold.
The Threshold is the point measured in decibels that any compression comes into
operation. The Threshold control is variable from +20dB in the most anticlockwise
position to -20dB at the most clockwise position. Any signal below the Threshold
passes through the unit unaffected; while signals above the Threshold are reduced in
gain (and are thus ‘compressed’). This does depend on the Soft or Hard knee to some