The Alice PYE 588 is a stereo feed-forward compressor that addresses common issues associated with compressor performance, particularly in achieving a fast and smooth attack without compression overshoot.
1. Analog vs. Digital Compression:
- Analog Compressors: They are generally feedback types, operating by sensing audio levels at the output and applying correction to a gain reduction stage near the input. However, they can suffer from overshoot when faster attack times are required.
- Digital Compressors: Typically feed-forward types, they sense the incoming signal and use it to control the gain of the audio path. The PYE 588 falls into this category.
2. Feed-Forward Compression:
- The PYE 588 operates as a feed-forward compressor, sensing the incoming signal and immediately sending a control signal to a gain-setting circuit near the output.
- This approach allows for a faster attack time without the issues of overshoot.
3. Tonal Effects and Sound Quality:
- The PYE 588’s sound is described as consistently superior due to tonal effects generated during the compression process.
- Unlike digital compressors that produce symmetrical harmonics when minor distortions occur, the PYE 588 produces asymmetric (even order) harmonics, resulting in a more natural and pleasant sound.
4. Audio Focus and Clarity:
- The compressor brings audio into focus, acting like a variable contrast control.
- It is particularly effective for enhancing clarity and making a solo voice more present in the mix.
5. Width Control:
- The stereo equalizer processes the audio signal into ‘sum and difference’ mode, maintaining symmetry between left and right channels.
- The width control is achieved by manipulating the volume level of the ‘difference’ channel.
- At minimum width control, the audio output is mono. When halfway, it accurately combines the audio into left and right. Increasing the control extends the stereo image beyond the original.
6. Sum and Difference Processing:
- This processing method ensures perfect symmetry between left and right channels, preventing image shifts.
- Minor differences between the processed sum and difference signals only result in small deviations in the width of the stereo image.
In summary, the Alice PYE 588 is designed to provide efficient compression, natural tonal effects, and precise control over stereo width, making it a valuable tool for audio professionals seeking high-quality and flexible processing.
