FMR Audio RNC500 Really Nice Compressor
(500 series)
What
It Is
Based
upon our successful Really
Nice Compressor
this variation not only fits the increasingly popular API500 series rack,
but delivers an improved dynamic fidelity befitting the format! This
dynamic-range compressor provides positive signal control while leveraging
its pedigree for simultaneously reducing collateral sonic damage.
Additionally, we've added some thoughtful features that most folks won't
overtly notice, but will be glad that they're there: overcurrent
protection prevents a rare failure from bringing down your whole 500
series rack, an early-warning power supply detection that causes the
RNC500 to enter bypass, irrespective of the front panel switch
position, to avoid power-down pops, a robust 18 gauge electro galvanized enclosure that keeps the delicate electronics safe from
harm and helps protect against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from
affecting things inside or outside of the enclosure.
How
It Sounds
As
with the original RNC, the RNC500 can exhibit a sonic neutrality while
giving the recordist a level of control difficult to obtain without adding
unwanted artifacts. Unlike the original RNC, however, the RNC500 possesses
a sonic beefiness, a growl, if you will, that adds a slight,
but very compliant, bottom end to the source material. Years ago, we
designed a multi-channel RNC for London's famed Air Studios. It was with
that device that we first encountered an RNC with extra "Heft". It turns out that much of this
un-RNC like growl is a result
of the higher operating I/O levels like those present on the RNC500. It
seems that the harder the RNC500 is hit, the heftier the
sound. Overall, we'd still characterize the RNC500 as clean
but with a hint of attitude...that's under your control!
How
It's Done
Like
all of our dynamic audio processing products, we've replaced sidechain
electronics with chunks of software to accomplish both a bill of materials
cost reduction while simultaneously improving dynamic performance accuracy
and consistency. The beauty of this approach is that the main signal path
(all dynamic audio processors have two paths: a sidechain / control path and
the main audio path) remains firmly in the analog domain thereby avoiding
latency and digital conversion artifacts that are sometimes unwanted.
Coupled with a faster (40x) processor and higher resolution (24 bit)
arithmetic, sealed switches & relays, multi-layer printed circuit
board (PCB) the RNC500 will deliver smooth, controllable and reliable
compression for years to come.
Main Features
* Single
channel, 500 series version of the RNC.
* Balanced input & output
* Linkable for stereo operation
* Maximum input/output levels of
+28dBu.
* Overcurrent
protection circuits safeguard 500 series rack operation in case of
power supply faults.
* 24-bit
arithmetic for smoother compression.
* SuperNice & Normal modes
* Accurate
signal level metering via power-saving "dot" gain
reduction display.
* Sealed,
C&K subminiature toggle switches.
* Blue-anodized,
machined aluminum knobs.
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