Experience the smooth, vintage-inspired compression of the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler 500 Series Optical Compressor, designed for studio professionals seeking classic opto sound with modern enhancements. This single-channel compressor offers multi-channel link capability and integrates seamlessly into your 500 series rack. Crafted with precision, it features a US-made steel-core transformer and Fredenstein's advanced OPA2 op-amp, elevating your audio with unmatched clarity and detail.

The Artistic Leveler is engineered to simplify your workflow with intuitive rotary controls for Input, Release, Ratio, Make-up Gain, and Wet/Dry Mix. Uniquely, the Attack, Release, and Threshold controls operate independently, ensuring precision without interaction. Its three-step Attack Time and side-chain highpass filter allow for tailored sound shaping, while a toggle switch for Bypass and another for Link enhance usability. The LED bar-graph meter provides clear gain reduction feedback from 1dB to 16dB.

The fixed threshold design emphasizes input gain to control compression depth, offering a maximum output gain of +20 dB. The compressor's versatility is further expanded by its wet-dry mix capability, enabling nuanced blending of compressed and uncompressed signals. Additionally, the 3-position side-chain low cut filter and external side-chain input option unlock creative possibilities, allowing you to sculpt your sound with precision.

Key Features:

• Single-channel opto compressor with multi-channel link capability
• Proprietary OPA2 op-amp and Reverse-Mancini Opto architecture
• High-quality, US-made steel-core transformer
• Independent Attack, Release, and Threshold controls
• Rotary controls for Input, Release, Ratio, Make-up Gain, and Wet/Dry Mix
• 3-position Attack Time and side-chain highpass filter
• Toggle switches for Bypass and Link
• LED bar-graph meter indicating gain reduction from 1dB to 16dB
• Fixed threshold design with maximum output gain of +20 dB
• External side-chain input via Fredenstein Bento racks (sold separately)

Product specs

FAQs

What type of compression does the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler 500 Series use?

The Fredenstein Artistic Leveler 500 Series utilizes optical compression, known for its smooth and natural response, making it ideal for vocals and dynamic instruments.

How many channels does the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler 500 Series Optical Compressor support?

This compressor is a single-channel unit, designed for individual track processing in studio environments.

What are the control options available on the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler?

The compressor features controls for Ratio, Release, and Mix, allowing for precise adjustments to the compression characteristics.

Is the threshold adjustable on the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler 500 Series Optical Compressor?

No, the threshold is fixed on this model, which simplifies the setup process and focuses on other adjustable parameters like Ratio and Release.

What power requirements does the Fredenstein Artistic Leveler have?

The compressor requires ±16V DC and uses ±75mA, compatible with 500 series rack systems.