operatIon – front panel
9
en
5 – SPECTRACOMP™
Turn the knob to adjust the amount of SpectraComp
compression.
SpectraComp™ uses a so-called spectral or multi-band
approach to compression, allowing for individual compression of
the low, mid and high frequency bands. Multiband compression
allows a significantly smoother and more transparent
compression without killing dynamics or tone.
SpectraComp™ is an advanced compressor, optimized to get
the best from a bass signal. If you simply want to hear it just
turn the knob while playing. If you want to know a bit more about
what is going on behind the scenes, please read the following
section.
SpectraComp In Depth
Gain Reduction / Compression Meter
When using SpectraComp™, the light-ring around the
SPECTRACOMP knob doubles as a compression meter,
showing you how much compression is applied to the signal.
Auto Make-up Gain
As compression by nature reduces the loudest parts and peaks
of the signal, you may feel that many conventional compressors
“eat” the level of your signal, resulting in a lower output volume.
SpectraComp™ automatically compensates for compression
gain reduction, giving you an even output volume.
Spectral Compression vs. Full Band Compression
Virtually any compressor on the market for bass is based on a
“full band” principle, meaning that the compressor will respond
and compress identically across the full (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
frequency range.
From the low E (or B) string to the G string: The electric
bass has a very wide dynamic range. When using standard
compressors, the low E string will – due to its higher energy –
control when and how the compressor responds to and shapes
the entire signal. The typical result is that either the G string is
not compressed at all or that – just when the G string starts to
sound right –, the low E string is compressed too strongly. In
other words: You are constantly dealing with a tight and difficult
compromise.
With Spectral Compression, the BLACKSMITH amplifier uses
a different approach that allows for independent compression
of the Low, Mid and High frequency areas. This way, the right
amount of compression is added to the individual strings of
your bass, resulting in a smoother and much more transparent
compression.