User Guide

Chapter 4 Dynamics 81
Main Section
 Ratio slider and field: Sets the ratio by which the signal is reduced when it exceeds
the threshold.
 Knee knob: Adjusts whether the signal is compressed immediately or more gradually
at levels close to the threshold.
 Attack knob: Sets the amount of time it takes to reach full compression after the
signal exceeds the threshold.
 Release knob: Sets the amount of time it takes to return to zero compression after
the signal falls below the threshold.
 Auto button: When selected, the release time dynamically adjusts to the audio
material.
 Limiter button: Turns limiting for the main channels on or off.
 Threshold knob: Sets the threshold for the limiter on the main channels.
 Main Compressor Threshold sliders: Sets the threshold (the level above which the
signal is reduced) for each channel.
 Main Output Levels controls: Sets the output level for each channel.
LFE Section
 Ratio slider and field: Sets the compression ratio for the LFE channel.
 Knee knob: Sets the knee for the LFE channel.
 Attack knob: Sets the attack time for the LFE channel.
 Release knob: Sets the release time for the LFE channel.
 Auto button: When selected, the release time automatically adjusts to the audio
signal.
 Limiter button: Turns on limiting for the LFE channel on or off.
 Threshold knob: Sets the threshold for the limiter on the LFE channel.
Using the Surround Compressor
Using the Link controls, you can assign each channel independently to one of three
groups (Group A, B, or C). When you adjust the Threshold or Output Level slider for any
channel in a group, the sliders for all channels in the same group are adjusted by the
same amount. Also, clicking the Bypass button for any grouped channel bypasses all
channels in the group.
You can temporarily unlink a channel by pressing and holding Command and Option
while you move the Threshold or Output Level slider for that channel. When you move
either slider without pressing Command-Option, the channels move in step, keeping
their relative positions. This allows you to make independent threshold settings while
maintaining the sidechain detection link necessary for a stable surround image.