DN500 — Dual Compressor/Limiter/Expander
The DN500 is a two-channel full-function dynamics processor combining compression, expansion, limiting and peak clipping in a single rack unit. It is characterised by exceptionally quiet operation, typically more than 2 dB below the noise floor of comparable products of its period, attributable to the THAT VCA topology at the heart of the signal path.
Dynamics Architecture
The compressor section offers variable-knee control from hard to soft, attack from 50 µs to 20 ms and release from 60 ms to 2 s. An auto attack/release mode handles programme material transparently. The expander section provides downward expansion with its own threshold and ratio controls. A peak limiter with variable threshold and programme-dependent release sits after the compressor, and a peak clipper tracks the limiter threshold to eliminate transient overload. Maximum output level is +21 dBu into 600 ohm.
Linking and Side-Chain
The two channels link for true stereo operation. Both the compressor and expander sections accept independent side-chain inputs, allowing frequency-conscious dynamics for de-essing or programme-dependent gating without affecting the main signal path.
Application
Broadcast loudness control, mastering-grade dynamics on programme material, FOH bus compression where transparency is non-negotiable. The combined peak clip and limiter make it a reliable insert on broadcast transmitter feeds.
Specification Highlights
- Dual-channel compressor / limiter / expander / peak clipper
- THAT VCA topology, dynamic range typically >2 dB below comparable units
- Variable knee, attack 50 µs - 20 ms, release 60 ms - 2 s
- Auto attack/release mode for transparent compression
- Independent side-chain inputs on compressor and expander
- Stereo link for true stereo operation
- Max output +21 dBu into 600 ohm, 1U rackmount