Harman 286 user manual Using the Four Processors in Different Combinations

286s

Basic Operation Section 3

to pass. If the input signal is below the threshold, the gate “closes” and the input signal is attenuated. With sufficient attenuation, it effectively cuts that signal off. On the 286s, the amount of attenuation is set with the EXPANSION RATIO control.

The 286s gate provides more flexibility than traditional switch gates because it actually functions as a combination gate/expander. Where switch gates are generally only suitable for a limited number of uses (e.g., gating percussion), the gate on the 286s acts as a gentle downward expander at low EXPANSION RATIO settings (suitable for vocals, guitar, etc.) and can effectively work as a switch gate when used at high EXPANSION RATIO settings.

When an input signal exceeds the user-selected THRESHOLD, signals pass unaffected. However, when part of a signal is below THRESHOLD, that part is downward expanded. (This differs from gating in that the attenuation effect of downward expansion is gentle.) Downward expansion works well with program material that has a less defined attack and release. Use downward expansion with voice - as opposed to percussive sounds which have a quick, defined attach and release.

Adjust the Expander/Gate THRESHOLD and EXPANSION RATIO controls to prevent headphone leakage or to cut the background noise when gain is added at all the preceding stages of the 286s.

Using the Four Processors in Different Combinations

Note: Too high of a THRESHOLD setting with expansion (i.e., lower EXPANSION RATIOs), may cause the 286s to attenuate the desired portion of the signal, as well as the undesired portion. Too high of an EXPANSION RATIO setting my cause undesirable effects with highly modulated program material like vocals.

Note: The following example is provided as a guide to highlight how the 286s front panel controls can be used simultaneously for multiple purposes. Suggested settings are specific to this example. Once you have connected the 286s to your system (see page 10), adjust the 286s controls as required to support your setup and to achieve your desired results (refer to Suggested Settings/Usages, below).

An Example: You are using a condenser microphone to record a vocalist whose “sss” sounds sting while the overall character of the vocal part is rather dull and the vocalist is constantly changing his/her distance from the microphone, and your studio is complete with hum from bad cabling, and noise from heavy construction work nearby. The 286s can be used to rectify each of these problems and also provide additional processing to highlight the best qualities of the vocal performance.

Press the PHANTOM POWER button in to support the phantom power mic (after reducing playback gain).

Press the HIGHPASS button in to reduce the hum.

Adjust the Compressor DRIVE and DENSITY controls to smooth out the vocal performance. To

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