Advanced Optical Compressor
Model 1404 Foot Pedal
THE
Punch
TM
Compression Especially For Musicians
Optical Compression - What Is It? There are many, ways to build a com- pressor. Various devices can be used to create the core circuit that controls the gain of the compressor in response to a control signal. Each type of device has its own advantages and disadvan- tages. Every available technology has produced popular compressors over the years. However, one of the most beloved types of compressors is the “optical compressor”.
An optical compressor is created from the combination of a light sensi- tive resistor called a photocell, and a controllable light source such as a small light bulb or LED. Devices called optocouplers combine a photocell and light source inside a
Attack, Release & Memory Compressors are said to be “attacking” when they are in the act of reducing the gain and “releasing” when the gain is recovering, or rising back up after an attack. Photocells exhibit a function called “memory”. When just a few brief attacks have been experienced, the photocell recovers quite fast, bringing back the level more quickly. However, after repeated and constant attacking, the photocell builds up a memory of the light pulses and recovers more gradually. This helps to smooth out the compression and preserve the quality of the sound.
The optocoupler used in the Punch Factory is made especially for Aphex. It has unique characteristics that are unusually good for music instrument compression. That means no other compressor sounds like this one.
Compressors - What They Do
The basic idea is that a wide range of input levels is automatically “compressed” into a lower range of output levels. After compression, sounds that were low in volume are higher in volume. One could also argue that loud sounds are made lower in volume.
What Do I Need a Compressor?
When used well, a proper compressor will extend the sensitivity of an instrument, bringing up the tonal nuances that contain the sensuality of your music. That goes just as well for basses as gui- tars. Your music will be more consistent, filling the volume envelope more fatly, making the track stand out better in a mix. Similarly, in live music, you will fill better and your playing will be more apparent among the band.
Sustain
Typically, compression gathers more sustain. When you play, you hear the notes last longer because the compressor keeps raising the level automatically until it runs out of gain. Every time you hit a chord or note, the compressor “attacks” on the sound envelope and reduces its volume, then the volume “releases” back up as the sound dies out.
Punch
When the compressor attacks on the sound, it does so in a particular way that is different with different compressors. Too fast an attack will suck the life out of your music while too slow loses effectiveness. One of the good things about the Punch Factory is that it has a complex attack characteristic that adapts to the sound, letting it emerge enhanced, or subtly exaggerated. This creates “Punch”, aiding the articulation of the sound and creating a lush and full sound.
Expression
You will discover more great sounds on your instru- ment, and certain musical genres will become more playable. An example is blues. The Punch Factory will blend the notes musically, making every note audible without sucking out any of the feeling. Rich
sustains will not fade into oblivion.
Features
• Active/Passive Input Select
Allows for hot active pickups
• 10 Megohms Input Z
Brings out the maximum tone in all types of pickups.
• Low Z Instrument Output
Drives long cords effortlessly
• Balanced Pro D.I. Output
Effect or
Ground lift
Studio Quality
• Simultaneous Outputs
Both work at the same time
• True Bypass
No electronics in bypass
• Simplified Operation
Only two knobs
• LED Bar Graph Display
Gain reduction in decibels
• Long Battery Life
Estimated 100 to 150 hours from a fresh 9V battery
• Flexible External Power
7 to 36VDC any polarity
5 to 24VAC
If the plug fits, it works!
Genuine
w w w . a p h e x . c o m
Aphex Systems Ltd. • 11068 Randall St. • Sun Valley, CA 91352 • (818)
Aphex is a registered trademark and Punch Factory is a trademark of Aphex Systems Ltd.
