pressing the IN/OUT switch. Final adjustments of the controls can then be made to suit your particular requirements, including
the RATIO, ATTACK and RELEASE controls. The AUTO function of the attack and release times provides program dependent
dynamic processing which suits most standard uses. If a “condensed” or “wider” sound processing technique is required, the
attack and release times can also be manually adjusted.
The experienced user will be in a position to specify parameters while in bypass mode and thus realize the effect before the unit
is actually switched into operation. This is important in live situations, where a signal needs to be managed efficiently by the
sound technician, without the convenience of continual A/B comparison.
3.2 The CL-5000 As A Sound Effects Unit
Since the early 1960’s, musicians have been looking at the recording process as a way to create new sounds. With respect to
compressors, the pumping effect (which had been avoided by earlier recording engineers) suddenly became fashionable and
was often utilized as a creative tool, laying the groundwork for many of the sounds now considered indispensable in contempo-
rary music. The compressor can used in this role because you can hear it working, and, in this instance, control of the dynamic
range is of secondary importance.
The CL-5000, with its extensive range of functions, is well suited to this application. Useful sound effects of this kind can be
achieved using “extreme” settings. To achieve this, set the THRESHOLD control to a fairly low level, the RATIO control to almost
maximum and use the ATTACK and RELEASE controls to obtain the desire effect.
To get the most out of your unit, experiment with all the controls in order to get a feel of their function!
4. LIMITER FUNCTION
In addition to providing a variety of ways to compress signals, the CL-5000 can also be used to limit the overall output level of
the unit and to protect subsequent units from signal peaks, short term overloading and over modulation (transmitters etc.).
4.1 Initial Settings For The Limiter Function
Controls:
Settings
THRESHOLD control:
+20 dBu
RATIO control:
∞
ATTACK control:
0.1msec.
AUTO switch:
Manual (out)
RELEASE control:
0.3 sec.
OUTPUT control:
0 dB
IN/OUT switch:
IN (depressed)
Rotate the compressor’s THRESHOLD control counterclockwise until an appropriate amount of gain reduction is indicated on the
GAIN REDUCTION meter. As necessary, the attack and release times can be modified manually.
(Note: Too short attack times can lead to distortion and too long times let dangerous transients pass the unit unhindered. The
RELEASE control should be adjusted to avoid side effects as “fluttering” and “pumping” of the processed signal.)
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