Mastering
It’s designed to cover all the needs of every producer/engineer who wants to maximize their use of mid-side processing for enhanced stereo width; tight, focused mono-bass, and more. Its four discrete functions are divided across two linkable control sections for intuitive use, and its advanced cue section makes monitoring a breeze.Parallel insert with M/S function: With the insert section you can insert an external processor like an eq, compressor, distortion unit etc, and then dial in a mix between the processed signal (wet) and the unprocessed signal (dry). For maximum precision the blend control has 16 steps from dry to wet. If you activate the M/S function your signal will be coded into mid (L+R) and side (L-R). The mid signal normally contains all the center info such as bass, kick drum, lead vocal etc and the side signal contains all the panned parts of the signal. In M/S you can process the center signal and side signal separately with different types of processors. With the blend split function you get separate blend controls for the mid and side signal. In M/S mode the blend function takes place before the signal is decoded back to left/right. With the insert cue function you can monitor the L or R signal after the blend control separately, mid or side if M/S is active. This section can be used with it’s own balanced inputs and outputs.Elliptical Equalizer: With the elliptical EQ all frequencies below a selected frequency will be made to mono. This function can make your low end more focused. It’s an old technique used when mastering for vinyl. Too much low end in the side channel (vertical) can make the needle bounce slightly and cause distortion. By using a 12dB high pass filter in the side channel you set the frequency under which the signal will be processed as mono. As a HPF introduces phase shift to the signal, a phase correction is added to the mid channel keeping channel separation as good as possible. The EEQ has 16 frequencies from 36Hz to 302Hz. With the EEQ cue function you can monitor the signals that are mixed between the channels.Stereo width control: By adjusting the amount of side information in the stereo mix, the width can be adjusted incrementally from mono to extra wide. With this control you can fine adjust the stereo image after you have used the M/S insert.Cue function: With the cue function you can monitor the left, right, mid or side signal separately. By pressing the cue sections Insert switch you can cue the parallel inserts return signal by pressing L or R. (this can be done even if you run the two sections separately at different locations in your chain) By selecting the EEQ switch on the cue section you can monitor the low frequencies fed from left to right or right to left. The cue section is a passive design using relays to select the cue source.
The Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter is the definitive TG limiter, released in honor of Abbey Road Studios' 75th birthday. The brainchild of Chandler Limited designer Wade Goeke, the Zener Limiter is based on the classic EMI circuits used to record The Beatles and Pink Floyd. This latest EMI limiter carries on the tradition of EMI limiters started in 1956 with the RS114 tube limiter, and continued with 1966's RS168 Zener Limiter (a component of the TG12345 console channel in 1968), and the TG12413 in '74. Start with the essence of the classic RS168, add modern functionality, and you have the Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter.Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter at a Glance:Classic compression and limiting, with modern flexibilityExercise iron-fisted control over your dynamicsYou get natural compression, scrumptious-sounding limiting - and a blend of the twoClassic compression and limiting, with modern flexibilityThe original TG Limiter was designed to replace both the Fairchild 660 and the EMI-modified Altec 436/RS124 - two certified classics, revered for their dynamics-shaping prowess. The Altec unit was known for its natural, organic compression, while the Fairchild - with its fast, sub-millisecond onset and extremely soft-knee compression curve - is perhaps the most lusted-after (and imitated) limiter ever made. The Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter gives you the sonic mojo of these two classics - and goes several steps beyond.Exercise iron-fisted control over your dynamicsThe Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter gives you the power to impose your will on your dynamics. Starting with the powerful vintage TG limiter circuits, Chandler Limited gives you added features and flexibility in the form of controls such as switchable input impedance (for hard or soft driving of the unit), 11-position attack, 21-position release, and side chain filtering, as well as Comp 1, Comp 2, and Limit settings.You get natural compression, scrumptious-sounding limiting - and a blend of the twoCOMP 1 is a 2:1 ratio with slower time constants than originally designed by EMI engineers to emulate the Altec 436/RS124 EMI-modified Altec compressors. Limit mode is much faster and designed to emulate the response curves of the revered classic Fairchild 660. COMP 2 is a new setting that puts you halfway between the two original settings, essentially giving you the compression curve of Comp 1, with the faster release times characteristic of Limit mode. Whether you use it for tracking or mastering, with its sonic pedigree and effective controls, the Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter is a must-have for huge, punchy mixes.Chandler Limited EMI TG12413 Zener Limiter Features:Gives you the sonic mojo of two classics: the Fairchild 660 and the Altec 436/RS124COMP 1 mode is a 2:1 ratio with slower time constants reminiscent of the Altec 436/RS124Limit mode is faster and designed to emulate the response curves of the revered classic Fairchild 660COMP 2 is a new setting that puts you halfway between the two original settingsChandler Limited and their associated logos are registered trademarks of Chandler Limited, Inc. Abbey Road Studios, EMI, TG, REDD, RS and their associated logos are trademarks of EMI (IP) Limited.
The Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender EQ is the definitive TG equalizer, released in celebration of Abbey Road Studios' 75th birthday. The brainchild of Chandler Limited designer Wade Goeke and Abbey Road senior engineer Peter Cobbin, the Curve Bender is based on the vintage EMI TG12345 console used on Beatles and Pink Floyd recordings. This latest EMI equalizer carries on the tradition of EMI EQs that began in 1951 with the RS56 (cheekily dubbed "the Curve Bender" by EMI designers), and continued with the 1968's TG12345 and TG12412 in '74. A classic design - the gorgeous-sounding TG12345 - juiced with it with modern features. That's the Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender.Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender EQ at a Glance:A fully featured version of a classic EQPowerful functionality gives your serious sound shaping mojoYou get the best of both worlds: vintage warmth, plus modern featuresA fully featured version of a classic EQThe Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender EQ is the embodiment of a dream. It was during his mixing of numerous Beatles-related projects (Anthology, Yellow Submarine, Imagine, etc.), it occurred to Peter Cobbin that having a fully featured and highly flexible version of the original desk EQ units would be invaluable. After Wade Goeke presented him with a working version of the legendary console equalizer, Peter realized he could "have it all," and set Wade to building the perfect beast.Powerful functionality gives your serious sound shaping mojoPeter had requested four bands, and filters based on the slopes of the original console - but with overlapping and expanded options. In the final production unit, the 9 selections of the original TG12345 had become 51 EQ points. Wade also added a multiply switch that increases boost/cut up to 13.5dB (as well as sharpening the Q), in addition to filters and bell/shelf selections on the high and low bands.You get the best of both worlds: vintage warmth, plus modern featuresThe result is the Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender - a classic equalizer from the glorious history of EMI and Abbey Road that's come full circle, morphing into a modern powerhouse EQ perfect for all your recording, mixing, and mastering needs.Chandler Limited EMI TG12345 Curve Bender EQ Features:A fully featured version of a classic EQThe best of both worlds: vintage warmth, plus modern features51 EQ pointsMultiply switch increases boost/cut up to 13.5dBHigh pass and lowpass filters and bell/shelf selections on high and low bandsChandler Limited and their associated logos are registered trademarks of Chandler Limited, Inc. Abbey Road Studios, EMI, TG, REDD, RS and their associated logos are trademarks of EMI (IP) Limited.
To survive and remain competitive, today’s modern studio must be a flexible and agile facility that can immediately adapt to different workflows. Tracking, mixing and mastering services may all be performed in-house, sharing the same outboard gear.The Dangerous Liaison makes this possible by allowing unprecedented access to your outboard equipment. Plug in your gear and start creating different patches. Instantly audition changes and store these custom arrangements as presets to use again, instantly, anytime. True hard-wire bypass relays remove gear entirely from the signal path, including outboard that does not have a built-in bypass. Mastering grade components switch instantly and silently, allowing for true A/B comparisons without coloration or latency. Pre- and post-processing monitor outputs make it easy to instantly audition and evaluate options.Unlock the potential of all your outboard on every session, every time, in precise, repeatable combinations.6 Stereo Insert Loops, Assignable to 2 Stereo Busses Flexible and Potent Parallel Processing LoopRoute, Switch, Matrix, Flip & Audition InstantlyRecall any Tracking, Mixing or Mastering ConfigurationSeamlessly Integrates with Dangerous MasterFrequency Response (Passive Section) +0, -0.1dB from 10Hz to 100kHzFrequency Response (Active Section) +0, -0.1dB 10Hz-100kHzMaximum level > +28dBuNoise floor < -94.5dBu 22Hz-22kHz bandwidthTHD+N < 0.002%IMD < 0.003%Crosstalk rejection (Passive Section) > 124dBCrosstalk rejection (Active Section) > 113dBInput Impedance: 20K OhmsOutput Impedance: 20 Ohms
Bettermaker Mastering Equalizer for those who seek outstading EQ quality with the convinience of fast and precise recall and automation. MEQ offers 100% signal path, Passive as well as parametric filters, Highpass filter with changable slope and resonanse, Stereo/Dual mono/MS operation and a metering section with EQ curve representation. All this with mastering grade sound and patentedrecall with a speed of a native plugin. Mastering Equalizer: 100% analog audio signal path USB connectivity with MAC/PC all parameters are digitally controlled via touchscreen and/or DAW (with dedicated plugin) 399 presets with unique names, total recall, A/B comparison 5-inch capacitive touchscreen with backlight, four encoders with push-button action for ease of control stereo, dual-mono and mid/side operation modes with focus function stereo 12 or 24dB/oct high-pass filter with adjustable cutoff frequency (10Hz – 240 Hz; extended to 6Hz with the resonance enabled) four stereo parametric filters with 15dB boost/cut range, variable Q (0.2 – 7): EQ1: 22Hz – 470Hz (bell/shelf) EQ2: 90Hz – 2kHz (bell) EQ3: 480Hz – 10kHz (bell) EQ4: 1kHz – 23kHz (bell/shelf) stereo passive equalizer with extended hi-boost section (air bands: 20 and 28 kHz) stereo, 12dB/oct low-pass filter with adjustable cutoff frequency (2 – 38 kHz) adjustable output level (+/- 10dB) Frequency Search, Gain Lock, Note and Auto-Q functions on-board measurement of PEAK/RMS levels and RTA analyzer on-screen live representation of the equalization curve Digital Section: The sound of the Mastering Equalizer is of course based on the quality of its analog filters, precisely matched capacitors and inductors. But all the control and user interactions are performed in the digital domain. This allows us to incorporate options and possibilities not found in any standard analog equalizers: Save and recall presets from on-board memory (400 slots available) Instant reset of all parameters Rapid, precise and repeatable adjustments Precisely linked stereo operation with the ease of a single control DAW automation and recall of all available parameters The digital section of the Mastering Equalizer is based around high speed, 32-bit micro-controller, with dedicated firmware programmed into its memory (with the possibility of updating the firmware via USB connection). It controls the parameters af all analog filters, watches over the user interface, presets management, audio measurement, USB connectivity and other Mastering Equalizer functions. Front panel and LCD touchscreen: The front panel of the Mastering Equalizer is build around big LCD touchscreen, that allows you to control almost all functions available in the device. It will show you live representation of the EQ curve and allow you to adjust filter gain and frequency with the touch and drag of your finger (check unique Frequency Search function!). Apart from that, you can also monitor input/output levels, access the FFT real time analyzer or store and recall presets using on-screen QWERTY keyboard. DAW integration: The Bettermaker Mastering Equalizer can communicate with your DAW via USB connection. The unit appear as a HID device and can be managed via Bettermaker Mastering Equalizer Plugin. Technical specification (all filters enabled, set flat): Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz (+/- 0.2 dB) Dynamic range: 102dB (+23dBu, 22kHz BW) THD+N: 0.03% @ +4 dBu, 0.06% @ +18 dBu, 20 kHz BW CMRR: max 85 dB @ 3 kHz, min 52 dB @ 20Hz, 20 kHz BW Crosstalk: min -100 dB @ 30Hz, max -65 dB @ 20kHz, +18 dBu, 20 kHz BW balanced stereo input (XLR), 23dBu max input level (THD < 0.2%) balanced stereo output (XLR), 23dBu max output level (THD < 0.2%) Operating Level: +4dBu Input impedance (differential): 48kΩ (for balanced signal) Output Impedance: 50Ω + 50Ω (electronically balanced) 2U enclosure, 230mm deep 115/230V switch advanced linear power supply with toroidal AC mains transformer Maximum power consumption: 20W Shipping weight: 5.5 kg
Bettermaker Mastering Compressor is for those who seek mastering grade compression with the convenience of fast and precise recall and automation. Mastering Compressor offers 100% analog signal path, high class VCA compression with, 3 different compression modes, sidechain with HPF, parametric and LPF section with hardware insert and preview function, Stereo/Dual mono/MS operation, adjustable THD saturation and more.. All this with mastering grade sound and patented recall with a speed of a native plugin. Mastering Compressor: advanced analog VCA compressor with PEAK or RMS detection and switchable forward/backward feed all parameters are digitally controlled via front panel and/or DAW (with dedicated plugin) stereo, dual-mono and mid/side operation modes with with focus and sidechain preview function our famous BM, SG and DX modes adjustable 15 – 30 Hz high pass filter at the compressor input dry/wet MIX control for parallel compression HPF, LPF and fully configurable parametric filter in sidechain with option of hardware insert adjustable drive (for odd/even clipper) and THD function for harmonically rich sound Range Setting – limit the maximum amount of gain reduction! on-board measurement of PEAK/RMS levels 100% analog audio signal path total recall and A/B comparison five inch capacitive touchscreen with backlight USB connectivity with MAC/PC Digital Section: The sound of the Compressor is of course based on the quality of its analog audio path. But all the control and user interactions are performed in the digital domain. This allows us to incorporate options and possibilities not found in any standard analog compressors: Save and recall presets from on-board memory (400 slots available) Instant reset of all parameters Rapid, precise and repeatable adjustments Precisely linked stereo operation with the ease of a single control DAW automation and recall of all available parameters The digital section of the Mastering Compressor is based around high speed, 32-bit micro-controller, with dedicated firmware programmed into its memory (with the possibility of updating the firmware via USB connection). It's responsible for controlling the VCA, the user interface, presets management, audio measurement, USB connectivity and other Mastering Compressor functions. The use of separate ground planes for analog and digital section results in perfect noise isolation between these two worlds. High quality switching power supply, designed by Bettermaker, was used to provide low hoise, hum free power to all analog and digital components. Front panel and LCD touchscreen: The front panel of the Mastering Compressor is build around big LCD touchscreen, that allows you to control almost all functions available in the device. Apart from that, you can also monitor input/output levels, amount of gain reduction applied by the compressor or store and recall presets using on-screen QWERTY keyboard. DAW integration: The Bettermaker Mastering Compressor can communicate with your DAW via USB connection. The unit appear as a HID device and can be managed via Bettermaker Mastering Compressor Plugin. Technical specification: Frequency response 10Hz to 22kHz (+/- 0.2 dB) Dynamic range: 106dB (+23dBu, 22kHz BW) S/N ratio: 87dB (A-weighted, +4dBu, 22kHz BW, unity gain) Crosstalk: -83dB @ 1kHz, +18dBu, channel-to-channel CMRR: max 85 dB @ 3 kHz, min 52 dB @ 20Hz, 20 kHz BW THD: 2nd: < 0.06%, 3rd: < 0.01%; 4th: < 0.006%; (+4 dBu, 20-20 kHz, unity gain, THD and CLIP disabled) balanced stereo input (XLR), 23dBu max input level (THD < 0.2%) balanced stereo output (XLR), 23dBu max output level (THD < 0.2% into >2kohm) Input impedance (differential): 48kΩ (for balanced signal) Output Impedance: 50Ω + 50Ω (electronically balanced) 2U enclosure, 230mm deep (Mastering Compressor) 1U enclosure, 230mm deep (Bus Compressor) universal 100 – 240V power supply designed by Bettermaker Maximum power consumptin: 25W Shipping weight: 5.5 kg (Mastering Compressor), 5 kg (Bus Compressor) Threshold: -35dB / +5dB (40dB range) Attack: 0.1 – 250 ms Release: 10 – 2000 ms Ratio: Variable 0.7:1 – 10:1 Knee: Variable 0 – 20dB Output: -5dB to +15dB Width (in M/S): -8dB to +8dB Range: Variable 0.1dB – 20dB / off HPF24: Off/15/20/25/30 Hz THD + DRIVE: off/odd/even Sidechain HPF: off – 370Hz Sidechain LPF: 2k – 18k / off SC MF gain: +/- 15dB SC MF freq: 0.5 – 10kHz SC MF Q: 0.2 – 8 Sidechain Feed: Forward/Backward Sidechain Type: RMS/PEAK
When you need premium sound quality limiting and convince of fast and precise recall and automation. The mastering limiter offers, 100% analog signal path, plugin recall and automation within your project, frequency dependent saturation, MS processing, enhanced metering section and a large LED touchscreen minimising clutter on your main studio screen. Get analog mastering sound quality results, fast and spare your recall time. Mastering Limiter: The sound of the limiter is of course based on the quality of its hardware design. But all the control and user interactions are performed in the digital domain. This allows us to incorporate options and possibilities not found in any standard analog limiter: Save and recall presets Instant reset of all parameters Rapid, precise and repeatable adjustments Precisely linked stereo operation with the ease of a single control DAW automation Comprehensive metering operations based on high quality A/D conversion and DSP Great care and thought went into the development and implementation of the analog section of the Bettermaker Mastering Limiter. High quality capacitors and low noise op-amps are used in the analog path. Relays were used, whenever creating the shortest path for the audio signal was necessary. The analog section consist of high quality input/output buffers capable of passing thru high level audio signals (up to +23dBu, balanced, THD < 0.1%) All these modules are controlled by the digital section of the Mastering Limiter, so no mechanical switches or knobs are required to adjust any of the parameters. Digital Section: The digital section of the Mastering Limiter is based around two high speed, 32- bit micro-controllers, with dedicated firmware programmed into their memory (with the possibility of updating the firmware via USB connection). One of them is responsible for controlling the VCA limiter, when the other watches over the user interface, presets management, audio measurement, USB connectivity and other Mastering Limiter functions. The use of separate ground planes for analog and digital section results in perfect noise isolation between these two worlds. The linear power supply was used instead the switching one to improve the sonic qualities even further. The front panel of the Mastering Limiter is build around big LCD touchscreen, that allows you to control almost all functions available in the device. Apart from that, you can also monitor input/output levels, amount of gain reduction (and clipping) applied by the limiter, perform advanced measurements (FFT, LUFS, K-metering), use on-screen QWERTY keyboard for naming your presets and more. You can even display fully configurable, analog style VU meters! Main features: The Limiter has 3 functionalities that are essential to make a perfect master. All of them are recallable by the internal memory and a plugin that also handles automation.Analog Mastering Limiter: 100% analog signal path intelligent and manual release variable mix between limiting and clipping possibility to turn off the clipping section, so you can clip with you favorite AD or other. Color, for giving that special flavor to your mix: Two color modules introducing different saturation that can be used simultaneously Color 1 with Majority of odd harmonics Color 2 with Majority of even harmonics Both color sections can be internally EQed so for example you can present more odd harmonics in the low end to give the mix more bite and sweeten the highs with the even harmonics at the top end. Metering: Metering, an additional screen in your studio. As it’s a touchscreen it also utilizes control functions of the Mastering Limiter. You can view your favourite set of stats. Input, output and reduction Analog style meters (VU, PPM, RMS, Peak with peak hold functionality) LUFS (Short term, Integral, Loudness Range, view in time) K metering 30 Band FFT analyzer Goniometer Correlation meter Two points of measurement, the output of the Limiter or the plugin and more… DAW integration: The Bettermaker Mastering Limiter can communicate with your DAW via USB connection. The unit appear as a HID device and can be managed via Bettermaker Mastering Limiter Plugin. Technical specification: Maximum input level: +21,5 dBu (balanced) Maximum output level: +23 dBu (THD < 0.1%) Operating Level: +4dBu Maximum gain reduction: 20 dB Makeup gain: automatic Attack time: 0.1 – 250ms Release time: 0.01 – 1.3s + IREL (intelligent release) Input impedance (differential): 48kΩ (for balanced signal) Output Impedance: 50Ω + 50Ω (electronically balanced) Frequency response 5Hz to 30kHz; +/- 0.1dB Dynamic Range: 106dB (+21dBu, 22kHz BW) THD+N: CMRR: max 80 dB @ 3 kHz, min 55 dB @ 50Hz, 20 kHz BW Crosstalk: min -90 dB @ 1KHz, max -55 dB @ 30Hz, +18 dBu, 20 kHz BW Maximum power consumption: 30W (uses 630mA slow blow fuse)
The BC1-THD provides smooth bus compression that applies for both mixing and tracking. Engineers call it “The Magic Glue” when the BC1-THD’s transparent compression strengthens mixes without compromising clarity. The built-in blend control makes it easy to apply parallel compression by adjusting the blend of dry and compressed signal. A switchable sidechain filter can be applied which makes the BC1-THD less responsive to low frequency energy. The THD function adds more harmonics to the signal and the “grab” mode selects a harder threshold knee on all four ratio settings. Smooth and transparent compression will never go out of fashion.
Fully-equipped For home audio users who seek high-end sound quality suitable for archiving, AMÁRI is a reference grade AD/DA converter, that delivers 24-bit 384 kHz conversion and DSD128 support, an easy-to-use interface and trademark Antelope clocking. Unlike other audiophile converters AMÁRI has 2 headphone outputs with user-selectable output resistance, which works as headphone membrane weight compensation. MULTI DAC TOPOLOGY AMÁRI offers top of its class D/A converter performance by implementing an unique 8 × DAC architecture (4 × CS43198 chips per channel). This enhances the stereo image, expands depth perception and unveils all the musical details with its 138 dB dynamic range. Apart from the main DAC, the headphone outs feature dual DAC architecture for maximum performance, just like the main A/D converter – using one AK5578 chip per channel, boosting the dynamic range up to 128dB. 17 steps of Headphone Impedance Control AMÁRI’s 2 high-power stereo headphone outputs (on XLR connectors) feature individual volume controls (capped at 20dBu max), with digital trim and selectable output impedance – from -4.6 to 85.3 Ohm, available in 17 control steps. These options let you configure AMÁRI for ideal compatibility with your favorite headphones, matching their impedance for best performance. AMÁRI’s high-fidelity headphone driver chip offers fully differential input (per amplifier). It is a dual-amp design, optimized to eliminate possible temperature drifts and deliver differential signal quality. The headphone outs also feature dual DAC architecture for maximum performance. Mastering AD / DA Converter High-end conversion in 24-bit / 384 kHz for recording and playback 2 Headphone outputs (XLR / TRS combo jack) with separate volume control and adjustable output impedance from -4.6 to 85.3 ohms Supported playback formats: DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 (DoP) A / D dynamic range: 128 dB (dual AK5578 ADC chips) D / A dynamic range: 138 dB (8x CS43198 DAC chips) Operation via touchscreen display Sync inputs for 10M Atomic Clock and Word Clock 2 Analogue inputs: XLR / TRS combo jack, RCA 2 Analogue outputs: XLR, TRS Stereo Digital Input / Output: AES / EBU, Toslink, S / PDIF USB 3.1 port (Gen 1) Software compatible with Windows 10 and Mac OS X 10.11 Dimensions: 310 x 253 x 91 mm Weight: 3.0 kg Includes external power supply and USB cable
New colours from the masters of analogue.Fusion is an all-analogue 2U stereo outboard processor created for the modern hybrid studio. Fusion introduces five completely new analogue colouration tools designed to bring the perfect combination of added tonal character, weight and space to your mix bus or stereo stems, with the detail, warmth and finesse that only real analogue circuits can provide.The SSL sonic legacy is built upon a much-emulated collection of analogue audio processing tools that have featured in generations of studio consoles; pristine mic pre’s, classic Channel EQ & Dynamics, the legendary Stereo Bus Compressor, the Listen Mic Compressor, and the unique SSL summing bus.Fusion takes SSL into a new era with the introduction of a suite of new analogue processing tools that offer exceptional tonal character and versatility. Fusion expands the processing palette for hybrid studio owners and is a superb partner for the SSL Stereo Bus Compressor.Fusion features five analogue processors that can be used discretely or combined:Vintage DriveVintage Drive - is a unique non-linear harmonic enhancement circuit that brings cohesion and strength to your mix. Drive and Density controls interact to produce harmonic saturation and soft compression derived from overloading an analogue circuit. It can be used lightly for subtle thickening saturation or driven hard for more extreme distortion.The Violet EQThe SSL Violet EQ - an all-new minimum phase-shift, two-band shelving EQ. The first new SSL analogue EQ circuit for more than 25 years draws on the SSL legacy of carefully selected frequencies and response curves to create a musical and intuitive EQ designed to quickly dial in low-end weight and high-end sheen. High and Low frequency circuits each offer four switched frequency points and +/-9dB attenuation.HF CompressorA new High Frequency Compressor delivers the distinctive sound of high frequency rounding in the analogue domain. A compressor that effects high frequencies only, optimised for smooth and transparent harshness reduction and a tape-like high-frequency roll off – great for taming brittle high frequency fizz.Stereo ImageA new Stereo Image enhancer provides a true analogue Mid-Side circuit that manipulates the Side signal, allowing for widening and spatial manipulation of the stereo field.TransformerA switched, custom-designed SSL Transformer circuit introduces subtle low-frequency saturation, alongside a high-frequency phase-shift. The result is a simultaneous thickening of the low-end and an added sparkle to the high-end.Expertly designed for today’s hybrid studioSSL has also always been known for clever connectivity and features that streamline and accelerate production workflow. Fusion fits right in with a collection of workflow enhancing features including: +/-12dB Input and Output Trim controls, an Input overload LED, large peak-hold metering, a front-end 3rd order High Pass Filter with three selectable cut off frequencies, and tri-colour status indicators for the Vintage Drive and HF Comp sections.A set of XLR connections can be used either as a Stereo Insert for stereo mix bus processing or switched to function as a Mid-Side (MS) circuit enabling separate compressors or EQ to be applied to the middle (centre) and sides of a stereo signal. In Stereo Insert mode the insert point can be switched to pre-Violet EQ, when in MS mode the insert can be switched to pre-Stereo Image controls. Input and Output connections are via XLR.Specifications:Includes 5 new circuits for signal processing and tone colouring in one deviceVintage Drive: Saturation for harmonic overtones and subtle compressionViolet EQ: Newly developed 2-band equalizer (shelving characteristic) with 4 selectable frequencies per band and +/- 9 dB strokeHigh Frequency Compressor: Frequency-selective compressor to round off the high-frequency range and control unwanted transientsStereo Image: Analogue M / S matrix for stereo broadeningTransformer: Switchable SSL transformer for subtle emphasis on bass and trebleSwitchable insertInput and output level controlsSwitchable high-pass filter with 3 frequenciesLevel meterBypass switch2 XLR inputs2 XLR outputsDimensions: 19" / 2 HE
For years the top mastering engineers and the hottest mastering facilities have been using custom-designed tools that were not available to the rest of us. Until now. We have distilled the essence of those tools to create the Dangerous Master. The Dangerous Master will provide you with the insert loops, sum & difference processing, level offset, and stereo image width control that will turn your high-quality outboard equalizers and compressors into a truly professional mastering rig.Hand built with top-of-the-line componentsStepped controls throughoutIncredibly clean and quietBuilt by the very same Chris Muth who designed the mastering equipment for many of New York’s top mastering engineers and studios, the Dangerous Master forms the centerpiece of a fantastic mastering system. It will tie together your choice equalizers, compressors and de-essors by providing accurate level control, easy monitoring facility, matrix processing and stereo image control, all in a compact 2 RU package.The integrated Input Monitor Offset allows you to focus on the sound of your master without being fooled by the pre- and post-process level differences.The S&M matrix is an analog sum and difference processor affording unprecedented control of stereo signals. Mastering engineers will enjoy the fact that S&M allows them to save seemingly unsalvageable tracks by altering vocal levels without touching the mix, by fixing overly wide or narrow stereo fields, or by de-essing aggressive cymbal hits while leaving the center lead untouched.Dangerous Master, combined with the Dangerous Monitor and your favorite processing gear, will provide you with what you need to turn any mix into a professional master.As with all Dangerous Music equipment, the Dangerous Master is designed by engineers, for engineers, and built by hand using the highest quality components.
Thermionic Culture have released a new version of the Mastering valve compressor, the Mastering Plus. The classic hand built point to point wired soft knee compressor has a compression ratio from 1.2:1 to 5:1 at 15dB of compression and uses Mullard and Siemens valves and custom Sowter transformers.Following on from the success of the previous models including the red face anniversary limited edition the new model features new switched and stepped rotary controls for quick and easy recall. The input gain features a 24 position ELMA, a 11 position ELMA for the Threshold, 6 position ALPHA attack and release and a 31 position OMEG stepped output pot. The same side chain filter section as previous versions has been retained. The Phoenix is a stereo compressor, which can be used as a pair of mono compressors. It has a ‘soft knee’ or ‘variable mu’ characteristic in that the compression ratio increases with the amount of compression being used. Initial compression is 1.2:1 increasing to 5:1 at 15dB compression.The Phoenix is being updated continually and this unit is the Master version (suffix M) with higher stability and faster release than earlier models. A side chain filter has now been added to provide 75Hz & 150Hz, but more permutations are possible when the MC is used in stereo mode with the link switch engaged.The Master Phoenix is easier to recall as it has a mixture of indented and switched controls and the screwdriver adjustment on the chassis behind the meters controls the current through the valves on this unit, so this corrects to some extent for valve ageing. A screwdriver is supplied with the Master Phoenix and should be used periodically to adjust the meters to zeroStepped Input & Output controls * 6 position switched attack control * 7 position switched release control * 11 position switched threshold control
Originally designed as a "distortion box" to simulate distortion in valve amps it has found lots of uses beyond this. We know that some owners use them on drum loops, vocals, piano sounds and even across entire tracks (it is a stereo unit). We have refined this so that distortion figures are reduced to only 0.2% at lowest to about 99.9% (at least that's what our distortion meter tells us!). Predominant distortion can be changed from even to odd harmonics with a simple switch. FeaturesWarm sounds gently or create a noise like a 200 watt guitar stack with all the drivers slashed.Independent channel operationOdd or even harmonic distortion, or combination of bothAll valve design free from solid state additives. High impedance line input or instrument inputs.4 & 7 kHz filtersOverdrive & bypass switchesTransformer balanced inputs & outputs on stereo jacks. Transformer balanced rear mounted bypass switch. Large indented input Drive controls. Indented Output Controls Specially selected or military type valves with longer life and low microphony. Carefully matched 5725 distortion valves.
The Culture Vulture Super 15 also showcases several inspired new features. The Drive switch has three positions with a +10dB option sitting squarely between ‘Normal’ and ‘Overdrive’, enabling users to make their sounds ‘a little more crunchy’ with increased brightness. Meanwhile, the Drive knob now goes all the way up to 15, rather than the decidedly more conservative Spinal Tap-favoured 11! The Function switch now offers further enhancements including special dynamic tunable mid-lift in the P positions and extra drastically-processed harmonics in the SQ positions. The new unit also has a two position Presence switch, as featured on Thermionic Culture’s popular Solo Vulture product. The Output Level controls have a -10dB attenuator which can be used in conjunction with Drive +10dB for comparison purposes or just to reduce high levels. The module’s line plus DI inputs are balanced while the line plus low level outputs are unbalanced. Five NOS military-grade valves are utilised for long life, low noise and enhanced performance, mirroring The Culture Vulture Mastering Plus Features Warm sounds gently or create a noise like a 200 watt guitar stack with all the drivers slashed.Independent channel operationOdd or even harmonic distortion, or combination of both.All valve design free from solid state additives.High impedance line input or instrument inputs.4 & 7 kHz filtersOverdrive & bypass switchesTransformer balanced inputs & outputs on stereo jacks.Transformer balanced rear mounted bypass switch.Large indented input Drive controls.Indented Output ControlsSpecially selected or military type valves with longer life and low microphony. Carefully matched 5725 distortion valves.
The Weiss 102 Series split band De-Esser is one of the mastering industy's most highly praised digital products. Now Weiss engineers have taken their De-Esser design and combined it with the best features of the time proven 102 Series Dynamics Processors. The result is the Gambit DS1, a stand alone digital Dynamics Processor with unparalleled performance and sonic integrity.In De-Esser mode the compression band is selectable as a lowpass, bandpass or highpass and extends the functionality beyond de-essing. The crossover filters are linear phase for the highest sonic quality. The full band dynamics processor with soft knee compressor and hard limiter is ideal for program loudness control. Presets keys let you select a bank of factory presets which can't be changed by the user, but which can be copied into normal snapshots and edited from there.Two banks of factory presets are given, de-esser type and compressor/limiter type. Monitor key: Allows to listen to the filtered signal only, i.e. the one being processed by the dynamics section, facilitates the search for offending signals. Bandsplitting: When touching "bandwidth" or "frequency", the soft keys will select which type of band (low, mid, high).The LEDs above the frequency knob show the current status. Frequency knob selects the corner / center frequency. Attack, Release etc.: Attack, release delay and release fast/slow with averaging knobs make up a powerful yet easy to operate timing section for optimum sound treatment. The LEDs between the knobs light depending on the automatically selected release time. Soft knee knob gives a variable soft knee characteristic (from no soft knee to very gentle). The LED above the knob lights if the input level is in the soft knee region. The LED above the threshold knob lights of the input level is above the threshold. Gain makeup allows for zero gain makeup in DeEsser mode and for as much gain makeup as possible in the compressor/limiter mode. Touching the gain makeup knob assigns the softkeys to select the various modes.
The EQ1-DYN-LP contains both the Dynamic and the Linear Phase EQ programs. After power-up of the unit, the user can chose between Dynamic (DYN) and Linear Phase (LP) modes. This allows to use a single unit for a wealth of different equalizing tasks. The workspace storage, the snapshots and the snapshot backups are fully independent between the DYN and LP parts of the unit. This means that all setup data are retained in any case. Users of EQ1-LP and EQ1-DYN units can upload their current snapshot data into the EQ1-DYN-LP via MIDI. FEATURES Seven identical parametric bands. All seven bands cover the entire audio frequency range. Each band has Boost/Cut, Frequency and Q/Slope knobs. Each band operates in any of the following modes: High shelving, low shelving, peaking, high cut, low cut, bypass. One parameter per knob operation. Seven sets of controls for seven operating bands. Knobs are touch sensitive. LCD display shows detailed parameters of the touched band. Large, backlit Liquid Crystal Display which shows the overall frequency response (calculated in real time) and the detailed parameter values in dB, Hz and Q. A/B compare memory, 128 snapshot bank with two additional banks for back-up. Digital input / output in AES/EBU format on XLR connectors. Dithering to 16, 20 or 24 bits. POW-R dithering in the LP, DYN and DYN-LP models. 128 steps for boost/cut, frequency and Q parameters. Variable slope shelving filters. Very high Q (up to 650) for notching out offending frequencies. M/S mode for independent equalization of M and S channels. M/S encoder / decoder can be configured separately. Also see the article Stereo Shuffling: New Approach - Old Technique by Michael Gerzon Peak meter, over indicators. MIDI control for each parameter. Bypass, overall gain, CH1/2 independent or ganged.
An Industry-standard Mastering ToolThe Variable Mu Mastering Version is the perfect addition to any professional mastering facility. In fact, since its introduction, it's quickly become an industry standard mastering tool - and it's the limiter/compressor responsible for an incredible amount of hit records over the last decade. The Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version's detented switches let you easily dial up or log favorite settings. Likened to "pouring a bowl of sweet cream over a mix," if you're looking for the ultimate in mastering weaponry for your pro sound armory, you'll find it in the Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version.Behaves much like the vintage Fairchild 670The Variable Mu uses a compression/limiting technique similar to the beloved vintage Fairchild 670. As "mu" means gain, the Variable Mu Mastering Version offers true variable gain by constantly re-biasing the unique 5670 dual triode at the center of the peak-reducing and compression action, allowing the tube to smoothly change its gain. The Variable Mu Mastering Version offers a soft-knee 1.5:1 compression ratio while its limit mode is sharper knee, starting at 4:1 and moving to 20:1 when limiting over 12dB. The knee softens the more limiting is used. To achieve more sounds, you can creatively use distortion by turning up the input and turning down the output while minimizing your use of compression.Premium switches, for logging and recalling settingsUnlike the standard Variable Mu, which uses smooth-moving pots, the mastering-dedicated Variable Mu Mastering Version offers detented steps. This way, you can easily log your settings or recall them. The steps are built with 1% metal film resistors on sealed gold-contact Grayhill switches. Features:Detented steps using 1% metal film resistors on sealed gold-contact Grayhill switchesManley input & output transformers with pure nickel laminations in mu-metal case with flat frequency response20Hz-25KHz frequency responseBalanced Inputs & OutputsFully differential all-tube circuitry using one each 5670, 5751, 7044, & 12AL5 per channelIndependently regulated B+ and Heater suppliesHard-wire Bypass switchSilent conductive plastic input attenuatorRecovery 5 steps: 0.2s, 0.4s, 0.6s, 4sec., 8sec. (Not a 12-step recovery)Variable Attack: 25msec-70msecContinuously variable ThresholdSwitch for Limit or Compress modesFront-panel mounted Meter AdjustLimit (4:1 to 20:1) or Compress (1.5:1)Large Illuminated Sifam MetersStereo Link SwitchMaximum gain: 35 dB