DriveRack®4800/4820 User Manual
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The DriveRack 4800/4820 offers a De-Esser module available on the Input Inserts. This De-Esser effect is
ideal for removing unwanted vocal sibilance and is based on the original dbx 902 De-Esser module. A De-
Esser works by inserting a high frequency boost EQ filter in the detector path of a Compressor to “bias” the
compressor, so it compresses when there is a significant amount of high frequency content in the signal pass-
ing through it. This De-Esser offers two modes: Highpass and Bandpass. Highpass mode functions like
most other De-Essers with a Highpass or shelving filter in the detector path. Bandpass offers the ability to
remove sibilance within a certain band without being affected by other high frequency content. For exam-
ple, in Bandpass mode the Width can be set so the De-Esser will ignore frequencies above 12 kHz while
still removing unwanted sibilance in the neighborhood of 6 kHz.
De-Esser On/Off switch
This turns the De-Esser on and off.
Frequency fader
This fader adjusts the center frequency the De-Esser uses when in Bandpass mode or the corner frequency
used when in Highpass mode. The frequency parameter is adjustable between 800 Hz to 8.00 kHz.
Amount fader
This parameter controls the amount of De-Essing. The amount control is a combination of the Threshold
and Ratio controls of a Compressor. Increasing the amount lowers the Threshold and increases the ratio
,thereby applying more De-Essing to the signal. The Amount is variable between 0 and 100%.
Type switch
This determines whether the De-Esser is in Highpass or Bandpass mode.
Width fader
The Width parameter sets the Q of the Bandpass Filter, and is adjustable between 16 and .25.
6.15 - De-Esser Insert
Detailed Parameters Section 6
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