10
Negative Ratios
Negative ratios – what exactly does this mean? To
get a better understanding of this function, it makes
sense to realize what the ratio control of a ‘normal’
compressor does:
•
1:1
The signal remains linear, there is no compression pro-
cess going on.
•
1:2
After crossing the threshold, an increase of 2 dB at the
input will be compressed to an increase of 1 dB at the
output.
•
1:∞
After crossing the threshold, the output signal is con-
stantly held at the threshold level without reacting to
further increases at the input (limiter).
At a negative ratio, the characteristic curve bends and returns
back down after crossing the threshold. The louder the input
signal, the lower the output signal – perfect for groovy com-
pression effects.
To get a grip on the extreme ‘destruction’ this can cause, en-
gaging the Gain Reduction Limiter is just the right idea.
Standard compression ratio
Negative compression ratio
Output Level (dB)
Output Level (dB)
Input Level (dB)
Input Level (dB)
