Alesis 7-51-0121-A manual Output, FAT mode and Sizzle

Using the Smashup 3

Output

The [OUTPUT] knob controls the level of the Smashup’s output. The Output control is useful for making up level that was lost during compression, or matching the input level of a mixer or recorder. The unity gain setting of the [OUTPUT] knob (the level where input level = output level when [THRESHOLD] is set to the maximum) is around the “12 o’clock” position.

Set the output low enough to avoid clipping the output (unless that’s the sound you’re going for), and high enough so there’s a good signal-to-noise ratio.

This control is disabled if the [BYPASS] button is pressed. If you get approximately the same level when Bypass is on as when it is off, that’s generally a good place for the [OUTPUT] knob to sit.

Intentional clipping: The output drivers of some classic analog compressors have unique “soft clip” characteristics that enhance the tone of the signal. Certain TYPE settings emulate this output overdriving when you deliberately raise the [OUTPUT] control above unity gain. Try it!

Sizzle

This button adds brightness and punch to the signal, avoiding the “dull” sound that compression sometimes brings. [SIZZLE] is especially good for electric bass and drums. Technically speaking, [SIZZLE] does two things: adds a little high frequency EQ on the output to brighten things up, and puts a 120 Hz high-pass filter before the compressor’s detector so strong bass notes won’t be compressed.

FAT mode and Sizzle

The FAT mode starts out “pre-sizzled”, and pressing [SIZZLE] adds even more bottom and high end.

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