Smart Research C2 Compressor

The Smart Research C2 Compressor is a Dual Mono / Stereo Compressor is a studio classic, offering the ability to have two independent mono compressors, or a stereo compressor operating from the left set of controls. An optional rather 'smart' High-Pass Filter Sidechain is available to deliver a walloping punch! But taking things further, Alan Smart's clever CRUSH mode expands the C2 Compressor's palate of available tones when taking advantage of the fast limit offerings. For anyone who loves the classic VCA console stereo bus compressor, the Smart Research C2 Compressor is the choice of the true connoisseur. For those who appreciate refinements and flexibility, the Smart Research C2 Compressor is definitely the thinking person's VCA stereo bus compressor.

The Smart Research C2 Compressor houses two independent mono compressors, or in STEREO mode, the left-hand controls operate both audio channels, with the right-hand controls not used, giving true Stereo operation. The characteristic sound of Smart Research C2 Compressor arises mostly from the fast response at the onset of compression, which when delayed to occur around the mid range attack settings (after 0.3 to 3 milliseconds) results in a window through which transients can still pass. When used across a mix, or with any dynamic program material, this has the effect of adding 'punch', as the sidechain 'breathes' around these transients, while still controlling overall levels. CRUSH mode has been developed as an extension of this 'musicality', adding to and accentuating the factors involved in producing the character of the unit. CRUSH may sound surprising to those interested in more gentle applications, being capable of exaggerated compression effects, but in conjunction with the fast limit settings also introduced with this unit, it allows the Smart Research C2 Compressor to be used for a much wider range of applications than the Smart Research C1 Compressor.

Sidechain High Pass Filter Cables
Smart Research C2 Compressor reduces sensitivity to low frequency compression. The input of Smart Research C2 Compressor is split through 150Hz -6dB/octave High Pass filter to feed the External Sidechain input. The Smart Research C2 Compressor operates as normal, until the 'External Sidechain' switches selected. (External signals can still be connected if required, with or without the filters). This cable rolls off low frequency signals below 150H'z feeding the external sidechain input, to reduce compression slightly at low frequencies, but without effecting the audio signal path. One cable is used for each channel. The normal input signal is connected to the female XLR, and the 'straight through' male XLR is connected to the Smart Research C2 Compressor's input. This allows operation as normal. The 'High Pass s/c ip' male XLR is connected to the Smart Research C2 Compressor's s 'External Sidechain Input'. This is a filtered copy of the normal input. When 'External s/c' is now selected with the front panel switch, the new filter is engaged, and if deselected the Smart Research C2 Compressor runs as normal. To use the filter in line with a different External Sidechain source, simply disregard the 'straight through' XLR connection.

Smart Research C2 Compressor Features

• New generation of Voltage Controlled Amplifiers
• High slew rate amplifiers, with hybrid f.e.t/ transistor inputs (Analog Devices)
• High current push-pull transistor outputs
• Total symmetry throughout signal path
• No electrolytic capacitors used in main signal path
• All inputs and outputs balanced
• Fast attack and limit settings for protective limiting
• Crush mode gives f.e.t overcompression with tailored frequency response, and higher distortion, for huge dynamic effects
• External sidechain inputs, (for ducking etc.)
• Power fail bypass for broadcast or live sound
• Ratios 1.5:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 10:1 and Limit
• Attack 0, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10, and 30 m/sec
• Release 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 1.2, and 2.4 seconds

Smart Research C2 Compressor Specifications

• Manufacturer: Smart Research
• Product: C2 Compressor
• Power: 100v-240v AC selectable, 30 watts
• Noise Floor: Below -104 dBm (flat 20Hz-20Khz)
• Distortion: Below 0.005% (1K/+4 THD 20Hz-20Khz)
• Frequency Response: Within 1/2dB from 20Hz to 100Khz
• Depth in Rack: 258mm
• Main Input: Balanced, impedance 1K8 per leg
• Sidechain i/P: Balanced, impedance 10K per leg
• Output: Discrete transistor. Above +26dBm into 600 ohm load
• Threshold: Adjustable -20 to +20dBm
• Make-up Gain: Adjustable 0 to +20dBm

Smart Research C2 Compressor Includes

• Smart Research C2 Compressor
• Manual & Literature