MOTU UltraLite-mk3 Hybrid User Manual page 88

It is precisely this self-adjusting behavior that
makes optical compressors the tool of choice for
smoothing out vocals, bass guitar and full-
program mixes without destroying perceived
dynamics.
Compressor/Limit buttons
The Comp and Limit buttons (Figure 11-26) model
the original LA-2A Limit/Compress mode switch.
The effect is very subtle, with the Limit option
behaving only slightly more like a limiter than a
compressor. The switch increases the level of the
input to the AGC model and runs the attenuator at
a slightly lower level. The Leveler then responds
more strongly to transients, but otherwise still
behaves like a leveling amplifier.
Gain Reduction
Gain Reduction (Figure 11-26) sets the strength of
the signal sent to the AGC model.
Makeup Gain
Makeup gain (Figure 11-26) amplifies the output
signal to make up for gain reduction.
Enabling or disabling the Leveler
The Leveler models the LA-2A so closely, it also
models the time it takes for an actual LA-2A to
"warm up" after it is turned on. Therefore, when
you enable the Leveler, give it a moment to "settle"
before you begin processing signals with it.
88
The Meters tab
The Meters tab (Figure 11-27) serves as a
comprehensive meter bridge for all inputs, outputs
and mix busses in the UltraLite-mk3. This tab gives
you a "bird's-eye" view of all signal activity in the
UltraLite-mk3; it is ideal for confirming your signal
routing programming and for troubleshooting.
Figure 11-27: The Meters tab.
Channel meter display
The channel meter display (Figure 11-27) provides
a long-throw meter for the input or output that
currently has the focus in the Input/Output tabs.
Bus activity LEDs (inputs only)
The Bus activity LEDs (Figure 11-27) are present
only for inputs. See "Input meter and bus activity
LEDs" on page 77.
Pre/post processing switch
The pre/post processing switch (Figure 11-27)
affects all input meters (and the meter in the
channel meter display above the tab, if this area is
Bus activity LEDs
(inputs only)
Channel meter
display
Meters tab
Pre/post
processing
switch
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