TC Electronic Classic 450, User Manual, Page: 9 / 16

SpectraComp in Depth
Compression Meter
When using SpectraComp™, the compression meter indicates
the amount of compression applied to the signal (see “9 –
Compression meter“).
Auto Make-up Gain
By nature, compression reduces the loudest parts and peaks of
the signal, so you may feel that many conventional compressors
“eat” the level of your signal, resulting in a lower output volume.
SpectraComp™ automatically compensates for this type of gain
reduction, giving you an even output volume.
Spectral Compression vs. Full Band Compression
Virtually any compressor on the market for electric bass guitars
is based on a “full band” principle – meaning that the
compressor will respond and compress the signal identically
across the full (20 Hz to 20 kHz) frequency range.
However, the electric bass has a very wide dynamic range, from
the low E (or B) to the G string. 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. Typically, the 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 Classic450 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.
5 – TONE Controls
The Classic450 has four tone controls: Bass, Lo-mid, Hi-mid and
Treble. The calibration and tuning of these tone controls was
inspired by classic vintage amplifiers, and they address four
relevant bass frequency areas, allowing you to dial in your
preferred classic tone with ease.
Gain ranges and Frequencies:
Bass Freq: 200 Hz
Bass Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
(Shelving type)
Low Mid Freq: 400 Hz
Low Mid Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
High Mid Freq: 800 Hz
High Mid Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
Treble Freq: 1600 Hz
Treble Gain range: -24 dB to +12 dB
(Shelving type)
OPERATION – FRONT PANEL
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