Alto BK 2.0, User Manual

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1. INTRODUCTION
You are now the owner of an LTO BK 2.0 Compressor/Limiter/Gate. The BK 2.0 is a very powerful dynamic processor. We
have included in it several innovative circuit designs that make the BK 2.0 a very versatile processor: smart and fast recognition
of the program, adjustable Expander/Gate and very low distortion Voltage Control Amplifier (VCA).
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Feature List:
Smart Knee Control Compressor (SKC)
Soft knee or hard knee? This is the question! SKC combines both: In the "soft knee" mode you control the program
material so that the compression will be the most musical and inaudible. ON the other end, the hard knee function is
used for better precision, limiting signal peaks with precision and will allow you to add creativity to the dynamic processing.
This function also allows you to protect other equipment in the signal loop against distortion.
The AUTO Function
Your BK 2.0 includes and AUTO function switch on the front panel. Thanks to the AUTO function attack and release times of
the program materials are automatically analysed. Then the dynamic range of the program is heavily compressed in a very
musical way so that there will not be any audible breathing or pumping effect.
Smart Ratio Control expander (SRC)
Durinmusic pauses or when a quiet session occurs, the noise floor maybe highly amplified and this effect
may be exaggerated because of inappropriate use of the compression ratio. The SRC control will adjust the
expansion depending on the input signal so that those signals, which are slightly above the noise floor level,
will get the major benefits.
Smart Gate Control peak limiter (SGC)
This function includes two important functions: Clipper and program limiter. The peak limiter will be activated
above a certain threshold that is adjusted by the User and will radically restrict signal peaks. But what about if
the threshold of the Limiter is surpassed only for a few milliseconds? SGC will turn on automatically and reduce
the output signal so that you will not hear any distortion. Smart, isn't it? The SGC proves to be very efficient in
loudspeaker protection and to reduce undesired peaks in digital situations.
Ok,Ok, you do not want to get advantage of our AUTO function and be the Master of your own mix.
We have provided your BK2.0 with User Adjustable attack and release time for the best total manual control.
Attack and Release Controls:
2.1 Some technical stuff
Good old analog technology: It will allow us to manufacture audio equipment with a very high dynamic range: up
to 125 dB. But the dynamic range of digital equipment is more or less 25 dB less. A further reduction in dynamic
range occurs with the use of tape recorders and/or vinyl records.
2. THE CONCEPT BEHIND
2.1.1 It is not just Music
Yes, a piece of electronic will produce some noise. When the current flows through a conductor this will generate
a certain movement of the electrons and therefore: noise. And throughout the whole spectrum of audio. Imagine
what happens when this inherent noise will be amplified. Yes, today one can use "low-noise" components but still
such components will present a certain level of residual noise.
For example with tape recorders it will not be possible to get an S/N (signal to noise) ratio better than 70dB.
This level would not be accepted today by the increased sensitivity of the Listeners. It is possible to improve the
performance of a tape recorder: Absolutely no!