Theory - Aphex Punch Factory 1404 Instruction Manual

Model 1404 Punch Factory

Theory

It you are reading this, congratulations! Not every-
one will stop here to learn exactly how the Punch
Factory works. We'll keep this description light and
not too technical, however. We want as many musi-
cians as possible to get a basic grasp of how this
product works.
a. Compressors - What They Do
The basic idea is that a wide range of input levels
is automatically "compressed" into a lower range of
output levels. After compression, sounds that were
low in volume are higher in volume. One could also
argue that loud sounds are made lower in volume.
b. What Is a Compressor Good For?
When used well, a proper compressor will extend
the sensitivity of an instrument, bringing up the
tonal nuances that contain the sensuality of your
music. That goes just as well for basses as gui-
tars. Your music will be more consistent, filling the
volume envelope more fatly, making the track stand
out better in a mix. Similarly, in live music, you will
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fill better and your playing will be more apparent
among the band.
Sustain
Typically, compression gathers more sustain. When
you play, you hear the notes last longer because the
compressor keeps raising the level automatically
until it runs out of gain. Every time you hit a chord
or note, the compressor "attacks" on the sound
envelope and reduces its volume, then the volume
"releases" back up as the sound dies out.
Punch
When the compressor attacks on the sound, it does
so in a particular way that is different with different
compressors. Too fast an attack will suck the life out
of your music while too slow loses effectiveness.
One of the good things about the Punch Factory
is that it has a complex attack characteristic that
adapts to the sound, letting it emerge enhanced, or
subtly exaggerated. This creates "Punch", aiding the
articulation of the sound and creating a lush and full
sound.
Instruction Manual
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