Aphex Systems 320A owner manual Introduction

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320A

3. Introduction

Compellor

circuit. They thought that all audio processors should be noticeable. We had to explain that the unit was in fact working, and we asked them to listen to their mixes with and without the Compellor. After they did that, they were amazed at the results. Meanwhile, broadcast- ers were discovering the Compellor. They found it greatly enhanced their air chains. The Compellor soon won the favor of broadcasters internationally.

Some owners may be interested in how the Compellor was first developed. The story begins in Hawaii in 1982 when Donn Werrbach, a consulting broadcast engineer, undertook to design an advanced AGC unit for on-air processing to improve the sound of radio stations. Werrbach

The Compellor has become the world standard audio level controller.

Understandably, we are very proud of that fact!

had been experimenting with broadcast audio processing for many years but needed to find a good enough VCA (voltage controlled amplifier chip) to fully implement all the new processing techniques he had discovered. A chance contact with Boyd Collings, who was then the Aphex agent in Honolulu, introduced Werrbach to the type 1537A VCA chip which was produced and sold by Aphex. Given a free sample, a couple of weeks time, and the inspiration brought by the VCA’s fabulous performance, Werrbach produced the first Compellor prototype.

Werrbach’s prototype found its way not only into on-air trials but into a tape duplicating lab, an album recording studio, and several live showrooms where it quickly proved its usefulness as a gain controller without processing artifacts. At Boyd’s urging, Aphex’s product manager Jon Sanserino visited Honolulu and auditioned Werrbach’s prototype at the Audissey record- ing studio where he was intrigued by its possibilities. Finally, in 1983, an agreement was reached between Werrbach and Marvin Caesar, the president of Aphex Systems, to produce the Compellor as a product line.

The first unit rolled off the line in 1984 as the Aphex Model 300 Stereo Compellor. Patents were secured for key inventions of the Compellor circuitry and are assigned exclusively to Aphex Systems.

As a premier product line, Aphex decided to build the Model 300 to the highest commercial standards including only the best available parts and construction techniques. As a result, not only is the audio processing performance outstanding, but the reliability and long lifetime of the product was assured. Thousands of Model 300’s are still in constant use today, some with as much as 19 years of duty under 24-hour service!

The next models introduced were the Models 301 and 303 based on the Model 300 design. The Model 301 was a single channel version, while the Model 303 was a Model 301 with an Aural Exciter (tm) added. These models are also still in widespread use.

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Contents 320A Safety Declarations Fast Finderi320A Contents Page Quick Start Quick StartWhat Is a Compellor? What Does It Do?How Does It Work? Bit Of Compellor HistoryIntroduction Page Mains Voltage Selection And Fuse UnpackingDamage & Claims Power Cord Safety ConsiderationsMounting In a Rack Proper VentilationInstallation Remote ConnectorReference Level Setting Input ConnectionsSummary Specications Ratio Introduction RecordingMixing MasteringBroadcast Radio Pre-processing Video Post-ProductionLive Concerts Broadcast STL/ Phone Line Driver Television Broadcasting and Cable SystemsVideo and Audio Tape Duplication Voice ProcessingHard Disk Recording Leveling Function Signal FlowProcessing Functions Compressor Function DRCDVG Silence GateStereo Enhance Stereo LinkingMeter Selections LimiterProcess Switch Output ControlInput/Output 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 RescueWhere The Problem Comes From Appendix FConfusion PPM StandardAppendix F VU StandardWhere The Compellor Fits Death of a Perfectly Good VU MeterBirth of dBFS 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.
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