Joemeek Fathead, Руководство пользователя

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User's guide
13
WHAT IS A COMPRESSOR?
A perfect compressor is an amplifier where the input/output ratio is constant:
So using a 2:1 compressor, increasing the input by 2dB gives a
corresponding 1dB increase in the output.
Early compressors which used variable mu thermionic tubes or photoelectric
devices only approximated true compression over a limited range. They had
a soft 'threshold' where compression started and held to a predictable ratio
up to a certain level, then they returned to a more linear amplification
allowing transients through. This is in stark contrast to modern VCA
compressor/limiters where is seemed 'sensible' to combine the functions of
compressor and limiter and to 'stonewall' any and all signals
above a certain level; excellent for technical level control but hopeless for
musical effect. Generally, (I know I'm over simplifying) modern VCA
compressors sound muddy and flat, while old compressors sound lively and
retain sparkle. The compressor in the JOEMEEK FATHEAD is unique; it is
a recreation of an early photoelectric compressor in use in the mid 1960s. It
is capable of producing the same punchy sounds that were so characteristic
of the pop records of the time.
4. The Meequalizer
The equalizer controls the volume of three audio bands. It's used to modify
the tonal sound of the signal in the Fathead. To be ideal for instruments, the
Fathead's low frequency and mid frequency centers can cross over, allowing
for superb musical effect. The equalizer is after the compressor in the
Fathead's signal path.
The general rule about using EQ is to be very careful about too much 'lift'.
Increasing the gain by say 10dB in the high frequencies has the effect of
taking the Fathead closer to overload. This is generally OK as the Fathead is
designed with very generous overload margins, but when using EQ this has
to be remembered. The rule is that when 'lift' is used, it's often necessary to
compensate by reducing the input gain.
HINT: always alter sound from the ground up; i.e. with the EQ controls set
to the 'flat' or 0 position. HINT HINT
Understanding the Fathead