9 user, Notes, What is the derresser – Empirical Labs EL-DS User Manual

Page 9: The four modes of operation, Using for the first time

User Notes

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What is the DerrEsser?

The DerrEsser is a multi function dynamic filtering device, in an API 500 series module format. In its

basic “DS” mode, the DerrEsser is an effective, level insensitive de-esser, which is a device that will

adjust the high frequency gain on overly trebly or spiky vocal, or other source. By using a crossover

technique, and dividing the audio up into a high frequency range and a low frequency range, the

DerrEsser can use its Voltage Controlled Amp to turn down comparatively high or harsh high

frequencies in an extremely musical manner. However, unlike other de-essers, the device is not

limited to just de-essing, and allows for multi use of its circuitry. See Below.

The Four Modes of Operation

Besides Bypass, there are essentially four modes of the DerrEsser:

DS Mode

– (Bypass Button IN, all other buttons OUT). As a de-esser in the DS mode (HF Limit

OFF), one can set the threshold to tame harsh S’s (sibilants) that result from an overly bright singer

or from EQ’ing to make a vocal sound aggressive and clear. In this mode, the dyamic action is “level

insensitive”, as the detector circuitry compares the High Frequency content to the low frequency

content, overall signal level doesn’t matter at all. When there is enough HF compared to LF, the

threshold is exceeded and the DerrEsser starts to turn down the frequencies above the crossover

point set by the Frequency control on the front panel. Again, great care was taken to ensure this DS

section meets the Empirical Labs reputation for originality and ease of use. We use the latest

technology VCA, specially selected for glitch free, distortion free, and noise free performance. The

time constants were carefully selected and the corner frequency is user adjustable with a high

performance active crossover.

HF LIMIT

– (Bypass Button IN, HF LIM IN, all other buttons OUT). In this mode, the DerrEsser

looks at the general level of the High Frequencies only. Think of it as a high frequency compressor.

If there is enough high frequency content to exceed the threshold, then gain reduction occurs. It IS

level sensitive, but responds much more to high frequencies. This mode can also act as a de-esser

but is more of a general high frequency smoothing device.The HF limiter is probably the first

carefully tailored soft knee HF limiter in existence. We believe both the DS and HF LIM modes offer

the highest performance of any similar device.

HIGHPASS

– (Bypass Button IN, Listen IN, HP/LP OUT, HF LIM doesn’t matter). By using the

“LISTEN” Function, the user can employ the superb filter circuitry inside the DerrEsser to process

their audio. With the LISTEN button IN, and the HP/LP switch OUT, the user will be hearing the high

frequencies that are being controlled with the dynamic/compression circuits. The corner frequency is

adjustable by the Frequency knob. Once the LISTEN switch is engaged, all bargraph LED’s should

light as indication.

LOWPASS

– (Bypass Button IN, Listen IN, HP/LP IN, HF LIM doesn’t matter). With the LISTEN

button IN, and the HP/LP button IN, the user is now listening to the low frequencies, those not

affected by the VCA and dynamic/compression circuits. This is a 12 dB per octave filter whose

corner frequency can again, be adjusted by the Frequency knob.

USING FOR THE FIRST TIME

The DerrEsser is not only a high frequency problem solver, but can be used as a super-quality HP or

LP filter, AND as a coloring device to give a more analog sound to digital sources. Use the

DerrEsser when you have a vocalist with prominent unnatural “S’s. The standard DS Mode is

usually used, with the Frequency set to 2 – 6K. Adjust the threshold till the S’es are tamed and not

much else is affected. The HF Limit will more generally smooth the high frequencies, gently

subduing high frequencies that exceed the user adjusted threshold. Great on so many sources.

The DS Mode can also help difficult problems like high hat bleed in the snare mike, or occasional

SQUEEKS on an acoustic guitar or other instrument. See example settings.

The HF Limit Mode is a general high frequency smoothing setting. Use it to soften the high end on

zillions of sources, not just vocals. If you have a track that has high frequency spikes, or plucks, or

edges, this can let you keep the air of the high end except when it really piles up.

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