SPL DynaMaxx - Compressor/limiter/noise gate, 2 CH

Part of the SPL Analog-Blue series, the DynaMaxx is a new type of dynamics processor that has both corrective and creative applications in those areas normally addressed by conventional compressors. In keeping with the SPL design philosophy, it incorporates many new features not found on standard compressors, and a slightly unconventional approach to the control system makes it surprisingly easy to use.

DynaMaxx also premiers a new facility, the De-Compressor, which may be used to counter the effects of overcompression in previously processed source material.

Dynamic Intelligence

Though auto attack and release functions are nothing new, in the DynaMaxx design, the time constants are automated in a very musical way. DynaMaxx adaptively optimizes all time constants in real time during processing so that the compression characteristics are continually matched to the source material. This ensures both very musical and truly set and forget opration.

THAT 2181 VCAs

The DynaMaxx employs THAT 2181 VCAs, and the circuit actually uses two of these excellent VCAs in a Double Drive-mode configuration, which increases transparency and dynamics while reducing noise and distortion.
A great adxantage benefit of the DynaMaxx circuits is that high compression ratios do not affect high frequency details. High amplitude, low-end bass can be controlled without introducing pumping or other negative side effects. Similarly, complex stereo sources can be processed easily and very musically. The DynaMaxx has numerous applications in recording and mixing as well as in sound reinforcement, and because of the level of intelligent processing within the unit, there are only two controls to adjust per channel.

CONTROLS & FEATURES

Compression

Sets the amount of compression, where the degree of gain reduction is continually monitored via the LED meters.

Gain
This is similar to the "make-up" gain control used on conventional compressors and is provided to restore signal levels that have been reduced by the compressor action. This control also compensates for any gain increase in De-Compression mode. The control has a range of 20dB.

Soft Limit

Switches between Compression mode and Soft Limit mode for a very gentle soft-knee-characteristic with minimized audible side effects.

Effect Compression

In this mode, the Release time is set to a fixed 60ms to produce a 'vintage compression' effect that works very well on solo instruments and occasionally voices.

De-Compression

Converts the compressor to an upward expander that allows to de-compress highly compressed audio signals, such as samples, keyboards sounds or previously recorded tracks that have been overcompressed. Each parameter function is inverted in De-Compression mode.

Stereo Couple

The Stereo Couple function ensures that both channels produce the same degree of gain change, maintaining a coherent and stable stereo image.

Noise Gate

Each channel incorporates a Noise Gate with ARC (Auto-Release-Circuitry). The Close-LED indicates when the Noise Gate shuts.

Metering

Both channels of the DynaMaxx are equipped with a 20-digit LED ladder meter displaying gain changes to a resolution of 1dB. The displayed values range from -10dB to +9dB. Each channel also has an additional Signal LED which illuminates when the input signal is hotter than -40dB.

Side Chain

If it is required to patch in external processing, both left and right channels have Side Chain inputs. If an acceptable sidechain signal is being received, a LED on the front illuminates.