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286
Section 3
Basic Operation
13
286s
to pass. If the input signal is below the threshold, the gate “closes” and the input signal is
attenuated. With sufficient attenuation, it effectively cuts that signal off. On the 286s, the
amount of attenuation is set with the EXPANSION RATIO control.
The 286s gate provides more flexibility than traditional switch gates because it actually
functions as a combination gate/expander. Where switch gates are generally only suitable
for a limited number of uses (e.g., gating percussion), the gate on the 286s acts as a gentle
downward expander at low EXPANSION RATIO settings (suitable for vocals, guitar, etc.) and
can effectively work as a switch gate when used at high EXPANSION RATIO settings.
When an input signal exceeds the user-selected THRESHOLD, signals pass unaffected.
However, when part of a signal is below THRESHOLD, that part is downward expanded.
(This differs from gating in that the attenuation effect of downward expansion is gentle.)
Downward expansion works well with program material that has a less defined attack and
release. Use downward expansion with voice - as opposed to percussive sounds which have a
quick, defined attach and release.
Adjust the Expander/Gate THRESHOLD and EXPANSION RATIO controls to prevent headphone
leakage or to cut the background noise when gain is added at all the preceding stages of the
286s.
Using the Four Processors in Different Combinations
Note: Too high of a THRESHOLD setting with expansion (i.e., lower EXPANSION RATIOs),
may cause the 286s to attenuate the desired portion of the signal, as well as the undesired
portion. Too high of an EXPANSION RATIO setting my cause undesirable effects with highly
modulated program material like vocals.
Note: The following example is provided as a guide to highlight how the 286s front panel
controls can be used simultaneously for multiple purposes. Suggested settings are specific
to this example. Once you have connected the 286s to your system (see page 10), adjust
the 286s controls as required to support your setup and to achieve your desired results
(refer to Suggested Settings/Usages, below).
An Example: You are using a condenser microphone to record a vocalist whose “sss” sounds
sting while the overall character of the vocal part is rather dull and the vocalist is constantly
changing his/her distance from the microphone, and your studio is complete with hum from
bad cabling, and noise from heavy construction work nearby. The 286s can be used to rectify
each of these problems and also provide additional processing to highlight the best qualities
of the vocal performance.
Press the PHANTOM POWER button in to support the phantom power mic (after reducing
playback gain).
Press the HIGHPASS button in to reduce the hum.
Adjust the Compressor DRIVE and DENSITY controls to smooth out the vocal performance. To