Smart C1 - stereo compression

[wolfhound]

I just got an Allen Smart C1 compressor (the model that does stereo or dual mono compression).

I've been screwing around with it on stereo sources (basically drum subs and mix bus) and am finding that I almost always prefer the sound of matched dual mono settings over stereo. It just seems to sound clearer and not as squashed, especially on mix bus when there are radically panning fx.

What are the theories out there about stereo compression? Am I some how ****ing up my mix by using it in dual-mono? It sounds better, doesn't seem out of phase or anything so that's how I'm using it for now.....

Thanks,
wolfie

[Mike Tholen]

I do the same thing.
The C1 sounds punchier in dual mono mode than in stereo.
I don't know why but it does...anyone else know?

[jbuntz]

Since I'm too lazy to research this, what is the difference between the C1 and C2? Is "crush" like an 1176 all buttons thing? Does it sound cool on room mics?

[wolfhound]

The C1 doesn't have the "crush" button. It's a true dual-mono compressor that also functions in stereo. I think the C2 may only be stereo, but am not sure.

--wolfie

[doug_hti]

c2 has sidechain, c1 doesn't
c2 has crush, c1 doesn't
c2 is balanced out, i don't think c1 is

c2 is dual mono or stereo

this is all i know to be different.

[OKden]

Originally posted by wolfhound
I just got an Allen Smart C1 compressor (the model that does stereo or dual mono compression).

I've been screwing around with it on stereo sources (basically drum subs and mix bus) and am finding that I almost always prefer the sound of matched dual mono settings over stereo. It just seems to sound clearer and not as squashed, especially on mix bus when there are radically panning fx.

What are the theories out there about stereo compression? Am I some how ****ing up my mix by using it in dual-mono? It sounds better, doesn't seem out of phase or anything so that's how I'm using it for now.....

Thanks,
wolfie

Nah, you're not ****ing up your mix. They're just different.

In stereo mode, the detector will see a sum of both channels. Things panned to the center will appear 3db louder to the compressor in stereo mode.

The phase relationship between L&R will also affect what the compressor "sees". For instance, if a sound on the left is out of phase with a sound on the right, the compressor won't react to that sound at all in stereo mode.

[lucey]

Yes the C1 is unbalanced and it has a few less parts in the path, making for a sonic difference - small but real.

[fatty]

hmm isn't your stereo image shifting around in dual mono? could be dangerous.

[OKden]

Originally posted by fatty
hmm isn't your stereo image shifting around in dual mono? could be dangerous.

It could, if you didn't pay attention to what you were doing. Just use your ears. Lots of great records have been mixed through unlinked compressors. These days there are no rules. Shifting stereo image could be your "thing". If it sounds good, it is good.

[fatty]

Originally posted by OKden
It could, if you didn't pay attention ...... If it sounds good, it is good.

yep thumbsup

[Kenny Gioia]

So this means I need to spend the extra $300 to get the dual Mono version?

I was just planning on getting the stereo one.

[lucey]

Originally posted by Produceher
So this means I need to spend the extra $300 to get the dual Mono version?

I was just planning on getting the stereo one.

The C1 is cheaper ... and comes stereo

[bassmac]

The MC2 seems like the best deal if you if you only want it for 2-buss stuff.

[lucey]

Originally posted by bassmac
The MC2 seems like the best deal if you if you only want it for 2-buss stuff.

I'd suggest the 2 ch. so you have the option.

I demo-ed a unit for a long time and passed on it for the 2 buss, yet now I long for that tone on bass. If i had it here, probably would use it on more than just bass.

[juniorhifikit]

Lots of people, including myself, are building SSL compressors at a fraction of the cost. I'm making 2 stereo units in a 2 space rack for around $350. Not for everyone though. Check here:

DIY

[lucey]

Originally posted by juniorhifikit
Lots of people, including myself, are building SSL compressors at a fraction of the cost. I'm making 2 stereo units in a 2 space rack for around $350. Not for everyone though. Check here:

DIY

$350 for parts ... or for parts and chassis?

What are you doing about the VCAs?

[juniorhifikit]

Originally posted by lucey
$350 for parts ... or for parts and chassis?

What are you doing about the VCAs?

That's everything minus the chassis. I'm using the chassis from a dead Opcode Studio 5 (already has the fuse holder, power plug, and power switch in it) and puting a new face on it. The DBX VCA's are out of production, but the direct replacement (SSL's too) is a THAT 2181. you can find them here:

Profusion

[lucey]

Very Cool ...