PreSonus BlueMAX - Manual (Page 4)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Overview
A Word about Compression
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Features
2. Controls & Connections
2.1 Front Panel Basic Layout
2.2 Back Panel Basic Layout
2.3 Presets
3. Basic Setup & Operation
3.1 Quick
Start
3.2 Basic Connections
3.3 Basic Operating Procedures
4. Technical
4.1 Specifications
1. OVERVIEW
A Word about Compression....
Punch, apparent loudness, presence... just three of many terms used to describe the effects
of compression/limiting.
Compression and limiting are forms of dynamic range (volume) control. Audio signals have
very wide peak to average signal level ratios (sometimes referred to as dynamic range which
is the difference between the loudest level and the softest level). The peak signal can cause
overload in the audio recording or reproduction chain resulting in signal distortion. A
compressor/limiter is a type of amplifier in which gain is dependent on the signal level
passing through it. You can set the maximum level a compressor/limiter allows to pass
through, thereby causing automatic gain reduction above some predetermined signal level or
threshold.
Compression refers basically to the ability to reduce the output level of an audio signal by a
fixed ratio relative to the input. It is useful for lowering the dynamic range of an instrument or
vocal, making it easier to record without distorting the recorder. It also assists in the mixing
process by reducing the amount of level changes needed for a particular instrument. Take,
for example, a vocalist who moves around in front of the microphone while performing, thus
making the output level vary up and down unnaturally. A compressor can be applied to the
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