Threshold Control - Art Tube PAC User Manual

T T u u b b e e D D r r i i v v e e / / G G a a i i n n R R e e d d u u c c t t i i o o n n D D i i s s p p l l a a y y
Four LEDs display how the tube gain is affecting the input signal.
These LEDs are calibrated with the tube circuitry to give you an
accurate representation of the tube's output signal (N N o o t t e e : these
before the output level control). Use
LEDs measure the signal level
this meter as a visual for setting the Gain level. The first LED is
labeled "Cln". The tube is producing a clean output when this LED
is lit.
The next two LEDs are labeled "warm." This is the optimal oper-
ating range for the Tube PAC. At this level, the tube is producing
an output signal which most would term "warm" (Whatever you
would like to call it is fine - simmering, toasty, etc.) You'll find the
output signal has an enhanced bottom to low mid quality with
smooth high frequency detail.
The last LED is labeled "Clip." This LED will light approximately
6dB before audible distortion occurs. If this light flickers, do not
panic. The unique design of the Tube PAC allows the tube to dis-
tort well before any other gain stage. When a tube goes into dis-
tortion it is a gradual process and tends to sound pleasing for a
range before it turns into a distortion box. After some use you'll
find the "sweet spot" of the Tube PAC is with this light flashing fair-
ly regularly. You may find a "clipped" level is suitable for some
applications.
N N o o t t e e : Use the Tube Character Array to aid in setting the Input
Level Control.
T T h h r r e e s s h h o o l l d d C C o o n n t t r r o o l l
The Threshold control sets the point at which the compressor cir-
cuit will act on the input signal. Turning this control counterclock-
wise lowers the threshold (adding more compression to a signal).
Turning this control clockwise raises the threshold.
Setting the Threshold control is dependent on the Gain control.
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