Symetrix 565E, User Manual

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565E
16
Applications Chapter 8
Here are a few applications for which the 565E is an optimal processing tool. The following
applications make one assumption: settings for the threshold control(s) are a function of each
individual system’s actual operating level. Wherever specific threshold settings are mentioned,
they are referenced to either a particular gain reduction level as indicated by the meter, or to a 0
dBu input level.
Vocal Level Smoothing
This is one of the main uses for a
compressor/limiter in recording, broad-
cast, and live sound. A compressor adds
“fullness” to almost any vocal by gently
suppressing the loudest components of
the audio signal. This allows the listener
to hear the quieter, subtle sounds more
clearly. Recording and live sound
engineers use this technique to help
position the lead vocal out in front of the
backing instruments in a stereo mix.
Use a ratio between 2:1 and 4:1. Adjust the
threshold until you see 6-9 dB of gain reduction on the highest peaks. Remember that this is just a
starting point because all vocalists and speakers have a different delivery. Let your ears be the guide.
-4 -6 -2 -15 -10 -12 -8 -25
CH1 COMPRESSOR
4 -10
6 2.5 +5
10 1
RATIO (X:1)
FAST -40 +20 SLOW
RELEASE THRESHOLD (dBu)
-25
CH1 EXPANDER
-2 -6 -18 -12
-12
-25 0
SLOW BYPASS FAST
RELEASE
+10
THRESHOLD (dBu)
-4 -6 -2 -15 -10 -12 -8 -25
CH1 COMPRESSOR
4 -10
6 2.5 +5
10 1
RATIO (X:1)
FAST -40 +20 SLOW
RELEASE THRESHOLD (dBu)
-25
Removing Noise from Vocal Tracks
It is usually more appropriate to clean up a noisy vocal track
with a downward expander rather than a gate, which is more
abrupt in action. The 565E’s expander is smooth, and can
clean up vocals without cutting into phrasing.
q Set the expander threshold for 16 dB (or more) of gain
reduction when the signal source is silent, and 0 dB of gain
reduction when the signal is present.
q Use the release control to make the expander follow the
phrasing.
Constant Level Paging
All too often, paging announcements are either sub-audible, or distorted. The problem is the result
of changing input levels from different users (Timid Tom vs Sam Screamer) and unpredictable
environmental circumstances. To
optimize system levels for intelligibility
without overload, use the compressor
section to even out levels, and the peak
limiter to put a clamp on Sam Screamer.
q Set the compressor threshold for 6
dB of gain reduction with normal paging
levels.
q Set the peak limiter threshold for 6
dB of gain reduction when Sam Screamer
is on the system.
q All normal signals will be slightly compressed, and really loud signals will activate the peak
limiter. With these settings a shy person will be audible, and the guy who thinks he has to shout
won’t be too loud, or cause distortion.