SPL Iron V2 Two-Channel Tube Mastering Compressor (Black/Silver) - Manual (Page 15)

15
Control Elements
Input
The operating value of each channel can be increased or attenuated in 2 dB steps via
the six- step rotary knob. A three-way switch allows you to select whether the value
is increased or decreased. In the center position, the Input switch is inactive; in other
words, no level increase nor reduction takes place. This position is the default setting. If
the switch is in the “-” position (left), the input level is reduced according to the chosen
setting. If the switch is in the “+” position (right), the input level is increased according to
the chosen setting.
The increase or reduction of the input level affects the overall response of the compres-
sor and it has a direct impact on the level attenuation.
Tip:
For audio material with a narrow dynamic range and a lot of information in the lower fre-
quency spectrum, attenuating the input signal with the Input switch, for example -4dB,
allows the compressor to work in a much more relaxed manner.
Output
Since the compressor reduces the dynamics of the incoming signal, the output level is,
generally speaking, lower than the input level. This audible level loss can be compen-
sated with the Output control, in order to make the best use of the recording medium
used. Just like with the input section, the increase or reduction is achieved via a three-
way switch. In the center position, the Output switch is inactive; in other words, no level
increase nor reduction takes place. This position is the default setting. If the switch is in
the “-” position (left), the Output level is reduced according to the chosen setting. If the
switch is in the “+” position (right), the Output level is increased according to the chosen
setting.
Threshold
Threshold determines the level beyond which the compressor starts to compress. The
compressor begins to process the signal once the threshold value has been exceeded.
Only signals that exceed the threshold level are compressed. Signals whose level is
beneath the threshold value are not processed. The Threshold parameter of the IRON
can be adjusted in 41 steps with the detent potentiometer. Do note, however, that the
intensity of the compression depends also on the parameters Input, Tube Bias, Rectifier,
Attack, Release and Side Chain EQs.