(and radio transmitters) against overload. The sound of a limiter is a bit like
compression but it tends to be flat and uninteresting.
A COMPRESSOR is a device which reduces the dynamic range of
programme material. Its use is necessary to squeeze both the loudest and
softest sounds onto records so that they can be listened to in all
environments; ie, in the car! A secondary use of compression (and most
important for us) is to introduce some artificial dynamics into sound to make
it sound more exciting. This is what the JOEMEEK compressor does best.
WHAT IS A COMPRESSOR?
A perfect compressor is an amplifier where the input/output ratio is constant:
So using a 2:1 compressor, increasing the input by 2dB gives a
corresponding 1dB increase in the output.
Early compressors which used variable mu thermionic tubes or
photoelectric devices only approximated true compression over a limited
range. They had a soft 'threshold' where compression started and held to a
predictable ratio up to a certain level, then they returned to a more linear
amplification allowing transients through. This is in stark contrast to modern
VCA compressor/limiters where is seemed 'sensible' to combine the
functions of compressor and limiter and to 'stonewall' any and all signals
above a certain level; excellent for technical level control but hopeless for
musical effect. Generally, (I know I'm over simplifying) modern VCA
compressors sound muddy and flat, while old compressors sound lively and
retain sparkle. The compressor in the JOEMEEK MQ3 is unique; it is a
recreation of an early photoelectric compressor in use in the mid 1960's. It
is capable of producing the same punchy sounds that were so characteristic
of the pop records of the time: I know; I used to make them!
THE Meequalizer (Equalizer)
The equalizer controls the volume in three audio bands. It's used to modify
the tonal sound of the signal in the MQ3. The three bands are set at 80Hz
at the 'low' end, 1.5KHz in the mid frequencies, and 8KHz in the high
frequencies. The equalizer is after the input amplifier and before the insert
point and the compressor.
The effect of the equalizer can be switched in and out with the EQ IN/OUT
switch. When the EQ is in circuit, a yellow light shows beside the switch.
6
MicroMeek MQ3
- User's guide
