
( Brand: Igs Audio ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: ALTER-500 ), ( Form Factor: 500-series ), ( Type: Dynamic Range Processor ), ( Effect/enhancement: Compression/limiting )
The IGS Audio Alter-500 Alter 500 is a high-performance FET compressor designed for use in 500-series rack systems. This compressor is a must-have for audio engineers and producers seeking superior sound quality and versatility in their mixing and recording projects.
The Alter 500 is built with a FET (Field-Effect Transistor) topology, which provides a fast attack and release time, making it ideal for handling dynamic sources such as vocals and drums. It comes equipped with essential features like threshold control, attack and release time knobs, ratio control, and output level control. Additionally, it includes a sidechain filter, allowing for frequency-selective compression.
The Alter 500 boasts a discrete Class-A circuit design, ensuring a rich and authentic sound. Its transformer-balanced input and output stages maintain a high level of headroom, preventing unwanted distortion and preserving the dynamic range of your source material. This compressor offers a wide range of compression ratios, from gentle compression to extreme limiting, giving you the flexibility to shape and control your audio as needed.
The front panel of the Alter 500 is user-friendly and intuitive, with clear and informative metering for input level, output level, and gain reduction. The aluminum knobs provide a solid feel and precise control, while the recessed switches prevent accidental activation. The unit also features a selectable 4dB or 24dB input level, allowing it to accommodate a range of audio sources without requiring additional gain staging.
The IGS Audio Alter-500 Alter 500 is a rugged and reliable compressor, built with a robust steel chassis and high-quality components. Its compact size and 500-series format make it easy to integrate into both professional and project studios. With its rich sound, versatile features, and robust construction, the Alter 500 is an indispensable tool for any audio engineer or producer seeking to elevate their recordings and mixes.
The IGS Audio Alter-500 is a 500-series FET compressor with a number of notable features that make it an attractive option for audio engineers and producers. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase:
Pros:1. High-Quality FET Compression: The Alter-500 utilizes a FET (Field-Effect Transistor) design, which is known for providing a natural and transparent compression character. This makes it a versatile tool for handling various types of audio sources, from vocals and drums to guitars and bass.
2. Wide Range of Compression: The compressor offers a wide range of compression ratio options, from 1:1 to 20:1, allowing users to achieve subtle or extreme compression effects.
3. Easy-to-Use Controls: The Alter-500 features intuitive and easy-to-use controls, including a single knob for adjusting the threshold and a separate control for the ratio. This makes it a great option for those who want a simple and straightforward compression solution.
4. Low Noise Floor: The compressor has a low noise floor, making it ideal for use in quiet recording environments or when working with delicate audio sources.
5. Durable Construction: The Alter-500 is built with high-quality components and a rugged metal chassis, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use in a professional recording studio or live setting.
Cons:1. Limited Features: Compared to more advanced compressors, the Alter-500 has a limited feature set. It does not offer functions like side-chain EQ or multiband compression, which may be desirable for some users.
2. Higher Price Point: The Alter-500 is priced higher than some other 500-series compressors on the market. While it offers high-quality FET compression and a durable construction, it may not be the most cost-effective option for those on a budget.
3. Limited Inputs and Outputs: The compressor has only one input and one output, which may not be sufficient for users who need to process multiple audio sources simultaneously.
Conclusion:The IGS Audio Alter-500 is a high-quality FET compressor with a wide range of compression options and a durable construction. It is a great option for those who want a simple and straightforward compression solution with a natural and transparent sound. However, it may not be the most cost-effective or feature-rich option for those who require more advanced compression features or need to process multiple audio sources at once. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Alter-500 will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.
Recommendation:If you are in the market for a high-quality FET compressor and prefer a simple and straightforward design, the IGS Audio Alter-500 is a great option to consider. Its natural and transparent compression character, wide range of compression options, and rugged construction make it a versatile and reliable tool for handling various types of audio sources. However, if you require more advanced compression features or need to process multiple audio sources at once, you may want to consider other compressors with more comprehensive feature sets or multiple inputs and outputs.
For sale is lightly used IGS Alter 500 FET compressor in very good condition.