The Two Page, Two Minute Guide To Getting Started
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Step 4:
On the right side of the front panel, depress the +4 Meter button. This not only turns on the
power to the 1176 but also ensures that the meter displays the final output level. (NOTE: Depressing
any Meter button other than OFF also has the effect of powering on the 1176AE; when powered on, the
front panel meter lights up.)
Step 5:
Set the Input and Output knobs to approximately 24 (their 12 o’clock position) for unity gain.
Step 6:
Set the Attack and Release knobs fully counterclockwise and disengage all ratio buttons (in
the case of the 1176AE, this the sole method for bypassing gain reduction).
Step 7:
Unmute your speakers and begin monitoring the 1176AE output. At the source, raise the level
of the input signal until the 1176AE meter shows optimum signal strength (around 0 VU, with
occasional excursions into the red, but with no audible distortion).
Step 8:
With all ratio buttons out, signal is passing through the 1176AE circuitry but with a
compression ratio of 1:1, thus adding “color,” but with no gain reduction. Depress the 2 Ratio button
(2:1) and slowly raise the Attack knob to hear the effect of moderate compression on your signal.
Step 9:
Experiment by selecting different Ratios, and by trying various “Multi-Button” combinations
(pressing in all more than one ratio button simultaneously). Also try varying the Input level and Attack
and Release times for different compression and limiting characteristics, including the “SLO” Attack
time found in the far counter-clockwise position (a solid “click” will accompany SLO mode). Note
that, unlike many other devices, the 1176AE attack and release times are faster when their associated
knobs are turned clockwise, and slower when they are turned counterclockwise. Set the Meter switch
to GR in order to view the amount of gain reduction being applied to the signal. Note that as you
increase the amount of gain reduction (by raising the Input level and/or selecting higher ratios), the
overall signal may be attenuated. If necessary, you can make up the difference by turning the Output
knob clockwise. Depress either the +8 or +4 Meter buttons in order to view the final output level. A
meter reading of 0 corresponds to an output level of 8 dBM or +4dBm at the 1176AE output,
respectively.
For more information, refer to the “Front Panel” and “Rear Panel” sections on pages 4 - 7.
