Aphex Systems 320A owner manual Quick Start

Page 6

320A

2. Quick Start

Compellor

You can use this quick setup to get a signal through your Compellor right away. Then. you’ll want to go on and read through the manual to discover the wealth of information that is available to you.

Quick Start

1.Make sure there is signal going through the Compellor with Process both “In” and “Out”. If not, check the input and output wiring. They may be reversed. Be sure to check for the cor- rect input selection (analog or digital) on the rear panel. Leave Compellor in bypass (Process “OUT”) until finished with set up.

2.Send a zero VU tone into the

Compellor (at +4dBu or -10dBV depending on your operating level settings). Check to see the rear panel REF LEVEL switches are set for your operating level. If you do not have a tone generator, use program material that averages around zero VU in your system.

3.Switch Compellor “Meter Select” to Input. The last red LED should indicate approxi- mately ‘0’ on the meter. If not, adjust the rear panel REF LEVEL switch to the position which gives you the closest reading to ‘0’.

4.Set the Process Balance to 12 o’clock.

5.Switch the Meter Select to G.R. (gain reduction). Adjust the Drive control to achieve 12dB of gain reduction with ‘0’VU input. The last lighted LED shows the total amount of gain reduc- tion occurring.

6.Set Leveling Speed to Slow if you are controlling full program, Fast if you are controlling live voice.

7.Set Limiter “On”.

8.Set the Silence Gate to 12 o’clock.

9.Stereo Enhance: Stereo Enhance to Enhance to “In”.

If using the Compellor for mono or dual mono operation, switch the “Off”. If using the Compellor for stereo program, switch the Stereo

10.Link: If using the Compellor for mono or dual mono operation, press the “Unlink” button. If using the Compellor for a normal stereo program, switch the Link to “Leveling”. If using the Compellor for any matrixed stereo program (e.g.- surround encoded), switch the Link to “Leveling & Compression”.

11.Switch the Meter Select to Output. Adjust the Output control so that the red part of the level meter indicates 0dB. Switch the Compellor into circuit (Process “In”). The Compellor will now act as a unity gain device whenever the input level is at zero VU, and make gain correc- tions for higher and lower incoming levels.

Page 6

Image 6
Contents 320A Safety Declarations Fast Finderi320A Contents Page Quick Start Quick StartHow Does It Work? What Is a Compellor?What Does It Do? Bit Of Compellor HistoryIntroduction Page Unpacking Damage & ClaimsMains Voltage Selection And Fuse Mounting In a Rack Power CordSafety Considerations Proper VentilationReference Level Setting InstallationRemote Connector Input ConnectionsSummary Specications Ratio Mixing IntroductionRecording MasteringVideo Post-Production Live ConcertsBroadcast Radio Pre-processing Video and Audio Tape Duplication Broadcast STL/ Phone Line DriverTelevision Broadcasting and Cable Systems Voice ProcessingHard Disk Recording Signal Flow Processing FunctionsLeveling Function DVG Compressor FunctionDRC Silence GateMeter Selections Stereo EnhanceStereo Linking LimiterInput/Output Process SwitchOutput Control Operating LevelsGain Reduction Metering Limited Warranty To Obtain ServiceAppendices Appendix B 320A Appendix C Proper Wiring Techniques Appendix CAppendix D Appendix D Part 1 Balanced OUT to BalancedImpedance Balanced Outputs Part 5 Y Insert Cables Appendix E Appendix E Compellor to the RescueConfusion Where The Problem Comes FromAppendix F PPM StandardAppendix F VU StandardBirth of dBFS Where The Compellor FitsDeath of a Perfectly Good VU Meter DAT TragedyIdeal Audio Package Analog/Digital Level DiscrepancyWhat, Me Worry?

320A specifications

The Aphex Systems 320A is a dynamic processor designed to enhance the quality of audio recordings in professional settings. Known for its exceptional performance and versatility, the 320A offers a unique combination of compression, limiting, and expansion functionalities. This unit is an essential tool for sound engineers and producers looking to achieve polished sound.

One of the standout features of the 320A is its dual channel processing capability. This allows users to apply dynamic processing to two separate audio signals simultaneously, making it ideal for stereo or dual mono setups. The 320A offers a range of controls, including threshold, ratio, attack, release, and gain, allowing precise adjustments to be made according to the needs of any project.

The 320A utilizes Aphex's proprietary Intelligent Clipping technology, which helps to prevent distortion at high signal levels. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with dynamic sources like vocals and percussive instruments. Intelligent Clipping ensures that the audio remains smooth and clear, even when processed aggressively.

In terms of connectivity, the Aphex 320A is equipped with balanced XLR and TRS inputs and outputs, ensuring compatibility with various audio sources and devices. The unit supports both line-level and mic-level signals, providing flexibility for different recording scenarios. Additionally, its low noise operation ensures that the final output retains pristine audio quality.

Another significant characteristic of the 320A is its user-friendly interface. The front panel features easy-to-read meters and clearly defined controls, making it straightforward for users to monitor the audio levels and adjust settings in real-time.

The 320A also includes a sidechain capability, allowing users to trigger compression or expansion from an external source. This feature is useful for achieving effects like ducking or creating rhythmic dynamics in a mix.

In summary, the Aphex Systems 320A is a feature-packed dynamic processor that serves as an invaluable tool for audio professionals. With its dual channel processing, Intelligent Clipping technology, flexible connectivity options, and user-friendly design, the 320A stands out in the realm of audio processing equipment, delivering high-quality performance for a variety of recording and mixing applications.