TL Audio A2 - Manual (Page 5)

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The A2 Stereo Processor.
The Ebony Series A2 Processor is a dedicated stereo unit, providing gain and phase
control, compression and equalisation. A tube stage is available to each signal path,
with variable drive control. The block diagram of the unit is shown in fig.1.
The tube stage has a variable drive control, with the signal level indicated by the
variable intensity “Drive” LED and “Peak” LED. Use of this feature typically
introduces 1% to 10% harmonic distortion, predominately second harmonic, without
changing the output level from the unit. The tube stage can be selected or bypassed as
required.
The Compressor has continuously variable threshold, ratio and gain make-up, and
switched settings for hard or soft knee and fast or slow attack and release times. The
compressor is stereo coupled, to ensure both A and B channels are compressed
identically, in order to preserve the stereo image.
The Equaliser has 3 bands. The HF and LF controls are shelving whilst the mid
control is a swept, peaking filter. The equaliser is fully discrete class A.
Comprehensive switching (via relays) allows the A2 to be configured with the
equaliser pre or post the compressor, or with the equaliser in the sidechain, for de-
essing or frequency variable compressor effects.
A VU meter is provided, which can be selected to either channel, and input or output
signals. It may also be selected to display the compressor Gain Reduction. In this
mode the meter normally indicates 0dB, falling back as the signal is compressed. The
amount of compression may be read directly from the dB scale. The meter is also
provided with a “+10dB” switch, which keeps the reading on the scale when driving a
high level out (to a DAW, for example). In the +10 mode, 0VU is calibrated as
+14dBu out.
Please read this manual fully before installing or operating the Processor.