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Page D-1
X-Rack Dynamics Module
D. The Dynamics Module
D.1 Connection
The module input and output gains can be set to operate at a nominal level of either
+4dBu or –10dBV, using a switch on the connector panel. Select the appropriate level
for the equipment you are connecting to. If in doubt experiment!
To check the input and output gains, set the compressor Ratio and Threshold controls
fully clockwise and send a signal close to the nominal operating level of your mixer or
DAW to the dynamics module. The lower three LEDs of the compression meter should
light if the input level matches the selected operating level. Release the switch for
+4dBu operation: push it in for –10dBV operation.
D.2 Operation
Each dynamics module comprises a compressor/limiter and a gate/expander, both
of which use the same gain element.
The IN button switches the entire section in and out of circuit.
D.2.1 Compressor/Limiter Section
RATIO – When turned to 1:1, the compressor/limiter section is inactive. Turning
the control clockwise increases the compression ratio, giving a true limiter at the
fully clockwise position. The compressor normally has an ‘over-easy’ characteristic.
Pressing the PK button switches this to peak sensing, and replaces the ‘over-easy’
characteristic with a hard knee.
THRESHOLD – Whenever a signal exceeds the level set by this control, the
compressor will start to act at the ratio set by the RATIO control. The
THRESHOLD and RATIO controls also provide automatic make-up gain, so as
you lower the threshold and introduce more compression, the output level is
increased, maintaining a steady output level regardless of the amount of
compression.
FST ATK – Normally the attack time is program dependent (3mS – 30mS). Press this
button to select a fixed fast attack time (3mS for 20dB gain reduction).
RELEASE – Sets the time constant (speed) with which the compressor returns to
normal gain settings once the signal has passed its maximum.
D.2.2 Gate/Expander Section
This section can act as a ∞:1 Gate or as a 2:1 Expander when the EXP button is
pressed.
RANGE – Determines the depth of gating or expansion. When turned fully
anticlockwise (Range = 0), this section is inactive. When turned fully clockwise, a
gate depth of 40dB can be obtained.
THRESHOLD – Determines the level at which the gate opens or below which gain reduction begins (EXP
selected), adjustable from +10dBu to –20dBu. Variable hysteresis is incorporated in the threshold circuitry
to prevent spurious triggering of the gate when the signal is close to the threshold level. This means that
the signal has to decay roughly 2dB below the threshold level before the gate will start to close.
3
2
1
SEL
+10 -30
COMPRESSOR
GATE/
EXPANDER
KEY
4
0.1
RELEASE
0.1
4
+10
THRESHOLD
-20
RATIO
1
∞
RANGE
0 40
PK
FAST
ATT
LINK
RELEASE
THRESHOLD
IN
EXP
20
14
10
6
3
HOLD
0 4
FAST
ATT
XR618
OUT
IN
+4dBu
-10dBV
KEY
1
3
2