Mastering
Because of its versatile functions and excellent sound qualities the alpha compressor is a brilliant all-round choice for all mastering applications. The combination of M/S matrix, filters, mixers and limiters makes sense in a broad variety of situations. There is also a great benefit when it is used in combination with other compressors, no matter if you need to match the M/S proportions or use the filters and the limiters in any combination you like.
Track recording
Of course a compressor of such quality is also the ideal choice for recording single tracks and mixing applications. All types of signals like vocals, drums, bass etc. can be optimized in dynamics and sound character at the highest stage. Exclusive functions like the Auto Fast mode for attack and release provide great support in handling even complex source material smoothly.
Extreme compression
The flexible function modules are also a fantastic creative asset when there is demand for extreme sounds. Especially the use of the feed forward mode in combination with the M/S matrix produces cool sounds in superior audio quality. What about an over-compressed drum loop with completely pulled down attack and only the room part being left? Then just add a little original signal at will – done!
Buss compression
The alpha compressor can also be inserted into subgroups, of course. No matter if it is drums, vocals, strings or keyboards; you can use it in any situation that requires selective improvements of critical parts of a production.
Stereo expander
If you need a stereo expander from time to time – no problem. As the integrated M/S matrix enables you to process the middle and the side signals separately, corrections of the stereo image can be made in no time. This stereo expander can even work dependent on frequency with the Niveau Filters switched into the signal chain. For example, these kinds of corrections make sense in mixes that are too broad and lack the right amount of punch.
Soft Clip limiter
The Soft Clip limiters protect following AD converters. They help to avoid audible clippings, especially when used on dynamic source material with a lot of transients (drums, percussion, bass). These limiters work very fast and therefore no signals can 'slip through' unintentionally. The absolute level will not decrease as only signal peaks will be reduced in the chosen amount.
De-esser
The compressor can be set to precisely react to S-frequencies by a selective use of the sidechain filters. In this case it will work as a practical de-esser. Appropriate settings of attack, release, threshold and ratio make it possible to use this feature even on stereo signals – another useful mastering tool.
Mini equalizer
The Niveau Filters of the alpha compressor also make a great mini EQ. There is only one frequency band per channel, but this one really delivers! The particular design and the high resolution of 'just a few dB' make this filter a designated specialist for changing the overall sound character in fine nuances. This function works perfectly well both in stereo as well as in M/S mode.
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