Dynamics Section
The Dynamics section contains a compressor section identical to that of the 9000K
series and also found in SSL's Logic FX range of outboard processing units. In normal
use, the compressor’s true r.m.s. side chain and over-easy soft ratio function provide a
very transparent compression action even with large amounts of gain reduction. The fast
attack option offers the classic SSL compressor sound normally associated with its use
on drum and percussion sources. Selecting Peak (PK) mode defeats the over-easy soft
ratio, modifies the release curve and attack times, and unleashes a far more aggressive
sounding compressor ideal for more radical sonic shaping.
The Gate/Expander section is a new variant of SSL’s classic 4000 series three-control
design. It features the choice of a steep gate or gentle expander slope, with optional fast
attack. The new ‘Hold’ (HOLD) option flips the variable release (REL) control to function as
a variable hold-off time with a fixed release curve.
The complete section is switched in or out of circuit using the
DYN IN
button (see also
Central Routing
Control
). When the dynamics section is in circuit, the
DYN
box on the channel TFT display is highlighted.
Individual controls act as follows:
Compressor
RATIO
– When turned to 1:1, the compressor section is inactive. Turning the control clockwise increases the
compression ratio until it reaches a true limit mode at the fully clockwise position. Pressing the
RATIO
knob
switches the compressor to peak sensing, and replaces the ’over easy’ characteristic with a hard knee,
providing an alternative voicing for some instruments. The
PK
LED lights to indicate that this option has been
selected.
THRESHOLD
– Whenever a signal exceeds the level set by this control, the compressor will start to act at the
ratio set by the
RATIO
control. This control, in conjunction with the Ratio setting, provides automatic make-up
gain, so as you lower the threshold and introduce more compression, the output level is increased, maintaining
a consistent output level.
RELEASE
– Sets the time constant (speed) with which the compressor returns to normal gain settings once
the signal has fallen below the compressor threshold. This control also incorporates a push-push switch which
selects a very fast attack time as an alternative to the standard time constant.
Gate/Expander
This section can act as a Gate or as a 2:1 Expander when the
RANGE
pot is pressed. A red LED indicates that
Expand mode has been selected.
RANGE
– Determines the depth of gating or expansion. When turned fully anticlockwise (Range = 0), the
section is inactive. When turned fully clockwise, an attenuation range of 40dB can be obtained.
THRESHOLD
+10
0
HF
KEY
RATIO
1
20
RELEASE
1
4
1
4
THRESHOLD
RANGE
0
40
GATE/EXP
.1
4
+10
- 30
0
DYN
IN
REL/HOLD
PK
EXP
POST
EQ
COMPRESSOR
dB
-20
+20
9
6
S/Ch
LSTN
HOLD
Push for Fst Att
LINK
Push for Fst Att
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Dynamics Section
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Duality Operator’s Manual