Meter Function Switch; Auto Switch; Knee Switch; Process Switch - DigiTech VCS1 Owner's Manual

METER FUNCTION
This switch allows you to toggle the VU meter display between monitoring input level, output level
or gain reduction. In the G.R. (gain reduction) setting, the meter needle will center on the 0VU por-
tion of the legend and swing to the left indicating how much attenuation is occurring due to the
compressor or peak limiter. When this switch is in the Output position and the channel is active
(Process switch is in the Active position), the VU meter will show output level. Switching the
Process switch to Bypass while in the Output position causes the VU meter to display input level.
Further information on setting levels with the VU meters is available in the Applications section.
AUTO
The Auto switch enables a circuit that overrides the manual Attack and Release controls. When the
Auto switch is "In", the attack and release timing will depend on the changing dynamics of the input
signal. Auto can be used to make setup faster or to emulate the sound of "classic" compressors. The
Auto circuit can also be used to reduce fast release time distortion on signals with sustained low fre-
quency content such as bass guitar.
KNEE
The Knee switch allows you to select a "Hard" or "Soft" transition into compression. As the audio
signal approaches the threshold, the Soft Knee setting will initiate a more gentle transition to com-
pression from just below the threshold. This results in more natural sound even with higher ratios
and attack times. The Hard knee is more useful for obvious compression effects and is particularly
useful for peak limiting.
Note: The Threshold control is calibrated for Hard Knee. When using Soft Knee you will need
to raise the threshold by 10 dB to achieve similar compression.
PROCESS
This switch allows you to bypass each channel individually. When in the Bypass position, the
Output and Tube Gain controls are bypassed and all dynamics circuitry is removed from the audio
path. In the Active position, all dynamic circuitry and level controls are active. The Bypass function
is essential for comparing the original audio with any changes you have made. It is also important
for matching input and output levels if you have adjusted either the Tube Gain or Output controls.
STEREO LINK 1>2
The Stereo Link circuit assesses relative power of the left and right channels of stereo input material
to preserve proper left/right balance under compression. When this switch is in the In position, the
dynamic controls for Channel 1 become the master for both channels. Because Channel 1 is the
master, the LEDs and controls in Channel 2 will become inactive.
With Stereo Link engaged:
• Tube Gain from Channel 1 affects both channels
• Output controls are independent
• Bypass controls are independent
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