Basic Settings Of The Compressor Section; The Ultra-Dyne Pro As An Effect Device; The "Dull" Sound Of Compressors - Behringer ULTRA-DYNE PRO DSP9024 User Manual

The delay parameter in the <GLOBAL SETUP> menu determines the time for the delay and intermediate
storage of the input signal. This delay permits the ULTRA-DYNE PRO to recognize changes in the dynamics
of the audio signal in time to optimize the control functions to the signal. Delay times of 20 to 40 ms ensure
effective compression characteristics and a consistent level.

3.3.1 Basic settings of the Compressor section

Move the Threshold fader downwards until the Gain Reduction meter in the METER mode indicates a clear
reduction of the level. This will be accompanied with an audible volume reduction. Next, raise the Outgain fader
until the loss of volume has been compensated. The levels of the compressed and uncompressed signals can
be compared using the input/output Level Meter in Meter mode.
Fine-tune the settings according to your requirements using the Ratio, Attack and Release controls. You can
also adjust the compression knee characteristics in the Band Setup menu.

3.3.2 The ULTRA-DYNE PRO as an effect device

In the early 1960s, musicians began exploring new sounds. One idea was to use the otherwise undesirable
"pumping" effect of cheap compressors to create new sound effects. These effects are the cornerstone for
sounds which are still a staple in today's music. The primary intention was the conspicuous, audible applica-
tion of the control processes; dynamic control was only a secondary consideration.
The BEHRINGER ULTRA-DYNE PRO is also suitable for this application due to its great flexibility. Sound
effects of this type can be realized using extreme settings. Use a low Threshold, set the Ratio close to its
maximum value and use the Attack and Release controls to achieve the desired effect.
Be sure to experiment with all of the controls to get a feel for their functions!

3.3.3 The "dull" sound of compressors

Compressors are often blamed for muffling the sound when the dynamic range control begins to take effect.
We would like to explore this issue in greater detail. Bass frequencies generally contain the greatest share of
physical energy in a piece of music and are thus responsible for causing the compressor to reduce the
overall dynamic range.
ULTRA-DYNE PRO DSP9024
Output
Threshold
Soft Knee
Fig. 3.2: Soft-knee compressor characteristic
Parameter
Threshold
Ratio
Attack Time
Release Time
Knee
Tab. 3.2: Basic settings of the Compressor section
3. APPLICATIONS
Gain 0 dB
Ratio
Input
Setting
+0 dB
1:3
variable
variable
variable
25