The Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor brings Alan Smart's famous / infamous C1 Stereo Compressor into the 500-Series domain, complete with all of the features you could hope for, including every feature of the original C1 Stereo, plus a 3-way High-Pass Sidechain Filter at 65, 130, and 205Hz, Tri-Mode C1 Operation, and more. The Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor is truly a 500-Series powerhouse worthy of every rack!
The Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor is a two channel Compressor/Limiter, released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Smart Research original C1 Stereo/Dual Mono unit, and the 50th anniversary of their North American distributor, Sunset Sound. It is a versatile unit, housed in a two-module wide 500-series plug-in format, with three main modes of operation offering a range of possibilities. It can be used for all stereo or single channel signal applications: as a main mix bus compressor; for submixes; or for tracking either mono or stereo sources. For 25 years Smart Research compressors have been used across many mixes: with artists as diverse as the Rolling Stones to the Three Tenors. The Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor shares this history by including the same electronics and settings as the original C1, but with several new features.
A Tri-Mode C1
Each channel can either be used independently, or in Stereo mode both are summed into the sidechain to eliminate any image shift, as in the C1. The Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor has the ability to DC-Link the sidechain signals in Stereo mode, allowing for more movement, while still preserving the stereo image. And for those who prefer to compress both sides of a mix without linking: when operating independently both channel's controls are ganged.
Mix Glue
The essence of the Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor sound is determined by its dynamic performance: the way it reacts around transients creating its signature. In many situations, best results can be from medium-slow attack; and medium-fast release settings passing transients present in a signal. The compression law and timing as the sidechain reacts and recovers adds 'punch' by shaping the transients, whilst also controlling overall levels. The 'SOFT 'mode in the Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor also adds a new compression curve, acting not just at the threshold knee, but across a broad input range of about 15dB.
Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor Features
- 3 operating modes: Independent/ganged; Stereo linked/Sum; and Stereo Linked/DC
- Meter: Input, Output, (VU) and Gain Reduction (PPM) for L or R
- 3 sidechain filters : 65, 130, or 205Hz
- Automatic distortion null circuitry
- Normal and half-threshold ranges
- 'Soft' compression curve reshapes a 15dB range
- Total of 12 Attack and 12 Release settings
- Total of 4 Auto' settings
- Dual, balanced bantam jacks for external sidechain inputs
- All settings and circuitry from original C1 Dual/Stereo Compressor
Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor Specifications
- Input Impedance: 10 kilo ohm
- External Sidechain Input Impedance: 10 kilo ohm
- Output Impedance: 30 ohm
- Operating Level: +4 dBu
- Maximum Input/Output Level: +21.5 dBu
- Clipping Indicator: +20 dBu
- Threshold Ranges: +/- 15 dBu - +/-7.5 dBu
- Make Up Range: 0 to + 15 dBu
- Frequency Response: +/- 0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 50 KHz
- Mechanical: 2 module widths in API 500 series format racks
- Power Requirements: +/- 15 to 18 V DC
- Current Consumption: 114 mA per rail under full load (nominal 90mA)
Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor Includes
- Smart Research C1LA 500-Series Compressor
- Manual & Literature
- 500-series screws
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versatile
Feb 7th 2024I think this really shines as it has a g comp sound but more versatile. Its also good on eth mastering bus. Very good. The ability to DC sum and run dual mono to stereo is nice. You can pick what best fits the music.
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