THE BLOCKS

Hold

Is the time that the Expander/Gate will keep the Ratio at 1:1 below the threshold, before the Release time sets in.

Release

The Release time is the fallback time that the Expander/Gate uses to reach the gain reduction specified by the Ratio parameter.

Example: If the input signal suddenly drops 4 dB below threshold in no time with the Ratio set to 1:4 and the Release set to 20 ms, the Gold Channel will use 20 ms to reach a gain reduction of 12 dB.

Knee Mode

The Knee Mode parameter sets the bending point of the Expander to soft knee or hard knee. When soft knee is selected, the Expander will gradually reach the ratio, while hard knee will cause the Expander to go directly from no expansion to the current ratio.

Max. Damping

With this parameter you can decide the maximum numbers of dB the expansion shall attenuate (See the graphics to get a better understanding).

SIDECHAIN

The Sidechain is the reference signal that the Expander is listening to internally to carry out the processing. You will never hear this signal on the output. The Advanced Expander has a separate bandpass filter for tweaking the sidechain signal, and you can give it another input signal.

Filter

Turns the Sidechain bandpass filter on/off. The bandpass filter attenuates low and high frequencies, from the Freq and Bandwidth parameter settings by -12 dB/octave.

Freq

Sets the center frequency of the Sidechain bandpass filter.

Bandwidth

Sets the Bandwidth of the Sidechain bandpass filter.

Monitor

Here you can monitor the Sidechain signal, which is very useful for getting the right settings of the Sidechain filter.

Input

When placed on Channel 1, you can select the Sidechain Input to be either the Same (Ch.1) or Channel 2.

Example: If you select to have Sidechain input from Ch.2, you can go to the Layout page and select Ch. 1 Pre, as input to Ch.2. Now you have all the blocks on Ch. 2 for processing the Sidechain signal on Ch. 1. You can also have a completely different input on Ch. 2.

NOTE: When two blocks are linked, you cannot select Ch. 2 as input for Ch. 1 Sidechain.

Compressor

There are two types of compressors in the Gold Channel. They use two different algorithms that make them perform in two very different ways. When we made these compressors, we listened to the characteristics in some of the old compressors that are very popular in recording studios today, and tried to put some of their characteristics into our compressors.

A Compressor is meant to reduce the dynamic content of the input signal, and thereby keep a more constant level. When the input signal exceeds the threshold, the Compressor starts to reduce the signal according to the Ratio. The Ratio describes how much the signal is reduced, e.g. a Ratio at 2:1 means that for every 2 dB the signal exceeds the threshold, only 1dB comes out.

Compressor

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TC electronic SDN BHD Gold Channel user manual Hold, Release, Knee Mode, Filter, Freq, Bandwidth, Monitor
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Gold Channel specifications

TC Electronic SDN BHD has established itself as a pioneer in audio technology, and one of its standout products is the SDN BHD Gold Channel. This innovative device is designed for professional audio applications, particularly in live sound and broadcast environments. The Gold Channel is revered for its exceptional sound quality, versatility, and user-friendly interface, making it a go-to choice for audio engineers and musicians alike.

At the heart of the Gold Channel is its advanced signal processing technology. It features a high-quality preamp that provides a clean and transparent sound, essential for capturing the nuances of live performances. The preamp is complemented by a robust equalization section, allowing users to shape their sound with precision. The three-band EQ offers both high and low shelving controls, as well as a parametric mid-band, facilitating a wide range of sonic possibilities.

Another significant feature of the Gold Channel is its dynamic processing capabilities. It incorporates a powerful compressor that helps manage dynamic range effectively. Users can achieve everything from subtle compression to more aggressive limiting, ensuring that audio levels are consistent and professional. The onboard de-esser helps eliminate sibilance, making vocals smoother and more polished.

In addition to these core features, the Gold Channel also includes an excellent built-in digital effects processor. This allows users to add reverb, delay, and modulation effects directly within the channel strip, streamlining the mixing process. The intuitive controls make it easy to dial in effects quickly, which is particularly beneficial in fast-paced live settings.

Connectivity options are another strong suit of the Gold Channel. It features multiple input channels, including XLR and TRS, accommodating a variety of microphones and instruments. The outputs are equally versatile, providing balanced and unbalanced options for seamless integration with other audio equipment.

Furthermore, the Gold Channel boasts robust build quality, designed to withstand the rigors of live performances. With a sleek metal chassis and reliable components, this device is built for longevity.

In summary, the TC Electronic SDN BHD Gold Channel combines high fidelity sound, advanced processing features, and practical connectivity options into a single, powerful package. Its remarkable flexibility makes it an essential tool for audio professionals dedicated to delivering outstanding sound quality in any setting. Whether in the studio or on stage, the Gold Channel stands out as a premier audio solution.
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