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XL8 compressor modes (dynamic)
Creative mode (linear peak - slow)
This is a peak sensing compressor with linear (dB rate) attack and second order
release. The compressor is very transparent, providing some dynamic control but
without unduly affecting the intentional dynamic content of the source material. The
linear attack provides a constant rate of attack, such that large changes in programme
signal level take longer to become compressed than smaller changes. Adding soft knee
noticeably delays these attacks, which can be particularly useful on drums where
compression can be applied to emphasise transients giving more punch while retaining
a good deal of artistic dynamic from the drummer.
The compressor normally sounds best with slower attack time settings, when it can be
used on difficult instruments, such as the acoustic guitar, with relatively fast release to
keep equal perceived loudness within a mix without producing excessive flutter or
distortion.
Vintage mode (adaptive peak - bright)
This is a peak sensing compressor with a partially adaptive nature. It produces
extremely subtle attack and release curves during the onset of compression that are
largely independent of the envelope control settings. However, as it is driven harder,
that is, signals are further over-threshold, the attack and release times become more
aggressive and gradually return to manual control so the operator can optimise the
capture (or otherwise) of larger transients etc. The peak sensing algorithm
intentionally increases harmonic overtones during compression, which adds a valve-like
brightness and sparkle to the programme, producing extremely natural and lively
sounding compression of acoustic instruments.
Shimmer mode (overshoot peak - slow)
This is a peak sensing compressor with an exponential release and unusual second
order attack character that tends to overshoot. When used in conjunction with MORE,
the overshoot is significantly extended and the compressor has a tendency to bounce in
and out of compression.
If used sparingly, the compressor sounds very soft and natural and can provide
additional control of material that already has a fairly low dynamic content. It can
sound very transparent on vocals where it retains a good degree of life in the
performance.
If used at higher ratios with slow attack and fast release times, the compressor can
produce a very soft bouncy sound character. Addition of the MORE switch accentuates
this, producing shimmering effects and giving dynamic content (and punch) back to
overly compressed instruments, such as a heavily distorted electric guitar.
XL8 Control Centre
Operator Manual
275
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