Buzz Audio Potion
Although the potion uses a FET (Field Effect Transistor) as the gain reduction element (like a well known classic limiter), the control circuitry (or side chain) is a completely new Buzz Audio design with some real innovative techniques to achieve an original compression characteristic.
Included in this new circuit is an element (RTR) that automatically alters the Release time setting of the compressor depending on the attack depth and prevents the compressor from over shooting and undesirable "pumping" when using faster Attack settings. A front panel LED indicates when this is function is active.
As you can see from the specifications, the FET itself produces a relatively large amount of harmonic distortion compared to Optical and VCA compressors, but this distortion is the sound that will add energy and richness to your tracks.
The potion is capable of of very fast attack (less than 50uS at F attack setting) and when set to 20:1 Ratio will oeprate as a brick wall limiter. The attack circuit is very controlled so it never overshoots or clicks when heavy, fast compression is used. Click here to hear the potion in action on a snare drum track demonstrating the quick and controlled attack time.
The audio section of the potion consists of our unique True Class A BE40 and BE50 amplifiers coupled with Lundahl input and output transformers for a fast yet full sonic signature. The input signal is passively coupled directly to the FET element via the input transformer, amplified and balanced via the output transformer - a simple signal chain.
In addition to the Gain, Drive, Attack and Release controls, we have included a % Mix control which allows the user to mix the uncompressed (input) signal with the compressed (output) signal providing yet another means of obtaining an original sound on your tracks.
The potion consumes 2 slots within the 500 Series frame. The audio in/out connectors of the first slot carry the main signal path whilst the in/out connectors of the second slot are utilized as a side chain insert point where external equalization can be applied to alter the compressor sensitivity at different frequencies. This insert can also be used for compressor "keying". A switch on the front panel allows the user to monitor the side chain insert and switch it in and out of circuit. Two potions' can be linked for stereo (mix bus) operation.
Rack Compatibility
The potion power consumption of 120mA is higher than other 500 series modules, but because this demand is spread over two slots (60mA each) it should work fine in all available racks. For more information on linking two potion units, please read this.
API* 500VPR Series rack module format - plug in and play!
Advanced analogue technology - not a clone or copy of products from the past.
Powerful fully discrete hi-bias, wide bandwidth, differential Class A amplifiers.
Passive transformer coupled input, transformer coupled output
Side chain insert point with monitor.
FET gain reduction element for harmonic character.
VERY fast attack.
Unique RTR Release Time Reduction circuit.
May be linked to another potion for stereo operation, more info
Switchable 10 segment VU meter
Frequency Response with no gain reduction = 17Hz to 57kHz, +/- 1.5dB
Maximum Input Level = +25dBu
Maximum Output Level = +27dBu
Total Harmonic Distortion
Measured at 0dBu input, no gain reduction, make up Gain 0dB
100Hz = 0.15%, 1kHz = 0.02%, 10kHz = 0.015%
Measured at 0dBu input, 10dB gain reduction, Attack FAST, Release AUTO
100Hz = 0.9%, 1kHz = 0.16%, 10kHz = 0.08%
Measured at +10dBu input, 20dB gain reduction, Attack FAST, Release AUTO
100Hz = 2.5%, 1kHz = 0.3%, 10kHz = 0.13%
NOTE - distortion at low frequencies will reduce when using slow release settings.
Residual Noise = -80dB A wtg, 150ohm source Z, make up Gain 0dB
Make up Gain Range = 0dB to +17dB
Maximum Available Gain Reduction = 40dB
Main Audio Input Impedance = 13k ohms, bal or unbal
Main Output Impedance = 100 ohms bal or unbal
Sidechain Send Output Impedance = 100 ohms unbal
Sidechain Return Input Impedance = 44k ohms bal or unbal
Sidechain Max Input/Output Levels = +22dBu
Size = (3"Wx5.25"H). Fits 2 spaces in API* 500VPR Series rack format
Power requirements = 120mA +/- 15-18 volts DC, as supplied by rack power supply
N.B. This product has been discontinued... which is sad, as it rules.
To shoot out a Buzz Audio Potion please go to the Compressor/Limiter gear shoot out player