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OPERATION
All front panel controls are designed to be functional and uncomplicated.
Initial control settings:
1.
Set METER switch to “In”, and MODE switch to “Bypass”.
2.
Set THRESHOLD control off (fully counter clockwise).
3.
Set OUTPUT control to unity gain position (12 o’clock noon).
4.
Set ATTACK, RELEASE, and RATIO switches straight up (12 o’clock noon).
The Liminator has been designed so that this position is a useful starting point.
These switches can be adjusted to taste from this position.
5.
Apply an analog line level signal from your source (microphone pre-amp, EQ,
guitar or bass preamp, audio console or DAW). Adjust the output of the source to
get a nice hot level coming into the Liminator. VU meter reading should average
around 0 and up into the red zone.
6.
Now, set METER switch to “GR” and set MODE switch to “Comp”.
7.
Slowly turn up the THRESHOLD control, and observe gain reduction of signal on
the VU meter. Normal gain reduction is 2 to 6dB. Higher RATIO settings will
result in deeper compression.
8.
While listening, adjust the OUTPUT control to maintain an appropriate level back
into your signal path. To view the output level on the VU meter, set METER
switch to “Out”. After “In” and “Out” levels have been checked it is
recommended that the METER switch be normally left in “GR” position.
9.
Adjust ATTACK. This control represents the amount of time a compressor needs
to react to an input signal change. In general, fast settings are often used while
tracking percussive sounds (drums, piano, choppy rhythms). Mid settings are
good for voice, brass, acoustic guitar. Slow settings work well with strings, synth
pads, creamy guitar solos, vocal chorus and on the stereo mix and mastering.
10.
Adjust RELEASE. This control determines the amount of time for the gain of a
compressed signal to return to normal (or 0dB reduction). Fast release returns the
gain to normal quickly, which is useful for short-duration signal peaks.
Slower release settings are less audible, useful in mixing and mastering.