
( Brand: Alan Smart Research ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: C258 ), ( Type: Dualcompressor ), ( Effect/enhancement: Compression/limiting ), ( Form Factor: Rack Mountable ), ( Inputs/outputs: Xlr In ), ( Modified Item: No ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United Kingdom )
The Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is a highly sought-after analog compressor that has become a staple in many professional recording studios worldwide. This compressor is renowned for its ability to impart a unique, musical character to audio signals, making it an indispensable tool for engineers and producers looking to add warmth, depth, and punch to their tracks.
The C258 is a dual-channel compressor, featuring two completely independent sections that can be used in series or parallel. Each channel is equipped with a set of transformer-coupled input and output stages, which contribute to the unit's rich, harmonically complex sound. The compressor employs a VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) design, which provides fast attack and release times, as well as a smooth and natural sound.
The C258 features a total of seven selectable ratios, ranging from 1:1 to 10:1, allowing users to tailor the compression effect to their specific needs. The compressor also includes a side-chain high-pass filter, which can help to reduce low-frequency artifacts caused by compression. The unit's threshold control is highly sensitive, allowing for subtle compressor adjustments or more aggressive level reduction, depending on the desired effect.
The C258 also has a unique "over-easy" release feature, which provides a more gentle release curve that helps to prevent sudden level shifts and assists in maintaining a natural-sounding compression effect. The compressor also includes a "hard" release option, which can be used for more drastic level changes.
The unit's output level control allows for up to 15dB of gain, which can be used to boost the output level of the compressed signal, or to reduce it if the compression effect is too extreme. The C258 also features a "link" switch, which allows the two channels to be linked together, creating a stereo compression effect.
In conclusion, the Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is a versatile and powerful analog compressor that offers a wide range of compression options, from subtle level control to aggressive, pumping effects. Its unique sound and musical character make it an essential tool for any serious audio engineer or producer.
Pros of buying Alan Smart Research Compressor C258:1. High-quality construction: The Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is known for its durable and robust build, which ensures long-term use.
2. Versatile application: This compressor can be used for a wide range of applications, including recording studios, live performances, and home studios.
3. Adjustable settings: The compressor offers various adjustable settings, allowing users to customize the compression for their specific needs.
4. Excellent sound quality: The Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 delivers high-quality sound, enhancing the overall audio experience.
5. Energy-efficient: The compressor is designed to be energy-efficient, reducing electricity consumption and saving on utility costs.
Cons of buying Alan Smart Research Compressor C258:1. High price: The Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is considered expensive compared to other compressors in the market.
2. Complexity: The compressor may be too complex for beginners, as it requires a good understanding of compression techniques and settings.
3. Limited portability: Despite its compact size, the compressor may not be the most portable option due to its weight.
Recommendation:The Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is a high-quality, versatile, and durable compressor that delivers excellent sound quality. However, its high price and complexity may make it unsuitable for beginners and those with a limited budget. If you are a professional audio engineer looking for a reliable and powerful compressor, the Alan Smart Research Compressor C258 is an excellent choice. If you are new to compression or have a tight budget, other compressors with simpler settings and lower prices may be more suitable.
I bought this because was told that compressor is very similar to the stereo buss in Sal. Free shipping only to continental us. I basically stopped using the Sal to master my mixes after bought this. I have no way to check it out now, but reason believe does not work as good the last day used.
3 to milliseconds results in a window through which transients can still pass. It has sat in my studio an environmentally save atmosphere for 7 years. Alas I no longer have the facilities to use it. The c2 compressor houses two independent mono compressors, or in stereo mode, left-hand controls operate both audio channels, with right-hand not used, giving true operation.
Crush mode has been developed as an extension of this 'musicality', adding to and accentuating the factors involved in producing character unit. When used across a mix, or with any dynamic programmed, this has the effect of adding 'punch', as side chain 'breathes' around these transients, while still controlling overall levels. The characteristic sound of this unit arises mostly from fast response at onset compression, which when delayed occurring around mid-range attack settings after. I used to do studio work with an salaries console.
Crush may sound surprising to those interested in more gentle applications, being capable of exaggerated compression effects, but conjunction with the fast limit settings also introduced this unit, it allows c2 be used for a much wider range applications than c1. I have since gone to a pro tools plug-in and i'm sorry, the plug in is not same as real hardware.