MANLEY STEREO VARIABLE MU® MASTERING VERSION
The Mastering Version of the Manley Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is a testament to Manley Labs' commitment to providing high-end audio equipment tailored for the most successful mastering engineers. This version incorporates detented and loggable steps using 1% metal film resistors on sealed gold-contact Grayhill switches, ensuring precision and repeatability in mastering applications.
Key Features of the Mastering Version
- Stepped Controls:
- The Mastering Version features stepped controls using Grayhill rotary switches with gold contacts. This includes stepped switches for Input, Output, Threshold, Attack, and Release, allowing for precise and repeatable settings. The use of 1% precision metal film resistors in the switches ensures tight tolerances for left-right matching.
- Input Level:
- The Input Level switch provides five positions ranging from -4 to +4 in 2 dB steps, with a reference Unity Gain at the 12:00 position. This allows precise adjustment of input levels.
- Output Attenuators:
- The Output Attenuators are in half dB steps, offering a range from -11 to 0. These controls act as "gain makeup," and Unity Gain is achieved at -11.5 or fully counter-clockwise.
- Threshold Control:
- The Threshold switch allows adjustments in half dB steps in LIMIT mode (24 detents) and approximately 1/4 dB steps in COMPRESS mode. The range is -11 to +1 in LIMIT and -11 to +1.5 in COMPRESS.
- Attack and Recovery:
- The Attack Time has been extended in both directions compared to the regular Variable Mu, with 11 steps available. The Recovery switch retains the same 5 positions found in the standard Variable Mu.
- Mono-Friendly Design:
- Although the Variable Mu has a ganged input control, it remains mono-friendly. Separate threshold and output controls facilitate compensations, making it suitable for both stereo and mono applications.
- LINK Mode:
- The stereo input control shines in LINK mode, making the Variable Mu ideal for final mix, 2-track, or mastering limiting and compression. It imparts a unique quality described as "pouring a bowl of sweet cream over the mix," adding warmth and cohesiveness.
The Mastering Version of the Variable Mu Limiter Compressor combines the legendary characteristics of the Variable Mu with precision and control essential for mastering applications. With stepped controls and meticulous design, it continues to be a top choice for mastering engineers contributing to hit records worldwide.
