TL Audio FATMAN FAT 1 User Manual

FATMAN

by

TL Audio

User Manual

FAT 1 STEREO VALVE COMPRESSOR

TL Audio Limited,

Sonic Touch,

Iceni Court,

Icknield Way,

Letchworth, SG6 1TN,

England.

Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]

E-Mail: [e-mail]

www.tlaudio.co.uk

interstage

Phistersvej 31, 2900 Hellerup, Danmark

Telefon [phone], fax [phone]

www.interstage.dk

- pro audio with a smile

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION

2 PRECAUTIONS

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 A.C. Mains Supply

3.2 Line Inputs

3.3 Instrument Inputs

3.4 Outputs

3.5 Operating Level

3.6 Ventilation

4 OPERATION

4.1 What is Compression?

4.2 Why Valve Compression?

4.3 Overview of Compressor Operation

4.4 Input Gain

4.5 Output Gain

4.6 Gain Make Up

4.7 Program Control

4.8 Threshold

4.9 Ratio

4.10 Attack and Release

4.11 Knee

4.12 Meter

4.13 Compressor On

5 GETTING STARTED

5.1 Connection

5.2 In Use

5.3 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

6 SERVICE

7 SPECIFICATIONS

1 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on purchasing the Fatman FAT 1 stereo valve compressor by TL Audio!

The FAT 1 is the first valve compressor to combine fully adjustable controls with fifteen
preset compression programs, allowing you the choice of creating your own unique settings
or opting for our wide selection of factory programmed presets. Now at last you have
access to professional sounding high quality valve compression for both tracking and mixing.

The FAT 1 combines classic valve techniques with solid state circuitry (known as a “hybrid”
design) in order to achieve the best combination of noise performance and valve warmth.
This makes the FAT 1 ideal for integration into both analogue and digital recording systems,
where extra warmth is required without the penalty of increased noise levels.

The block diagram of the FAT 1 is shown in Figure 1. A solid state, electronically balanced
input amplifier is used to achieve state of the art performance with very low noise, low
distortion and wide bandwidth. An ECC83/12AX7A triode valve stage (run from a
stabilised 100v DC supply) is used as a second stage voltage amplifier, to obtain the classic
valve sound and gradual overdrive characteristics. Like all other TL Audio compressors, the
gain control element of the FAT 1 is based around a special transconductance amplifier,
which avoids the use of VCAs and helps contribute to the smooth, open sound of the unit. A
certain degree of program dependant response is built into the FAT 1, particularly for the
attack and release times, and both soft and hard knee responses are obtainable.

The FAT 1 is a stereo compressor, with a single set of controls to control both left and right
channels. The unit works in linked stereo mode at all times, whereby the control voltages of
left and right channels are linked to ensure that the same amount of gain reduction is applied
to both channels (even if one signal is below the threshold). This ensures that the stereo
image is preserved. However, the FAT 1 may be used in mono by employing the left channel
only, although the processed signal will appear on both outputs simultaneously. A single
illuminated VU meter monitors the output level or gain reduction for both channels.

Line inputs and outputs are provided on each channel, on electronically balanced jack
connectors. These are fully compatible with unbalanced signals, and the operating level of the
ins/outs can be shifted from -10dB to +4dB via a rear panel switch. A pair of front panel
instrument inputs are also provided, thus allowing guitars, basses and keyboards to feed
directly into the FAT 1, removing the need for a separate DI box.

Please read this manual fully before installing or operating the FAT 1.

2 PRECAUTIONS

The FAT 1 Stereo Compressor requires very little installation, but like all electrical
equipment, care must be taken to ensure reliable, safe operation. The following points should
always be observed:

- All mains wiring should be installed and checked by a qualified
electrician,

- Ensure the correct operating voltage is indicated on the rear panel
before connecting to the mains supply,

- Never operate the unit with any cover removed,

- Do not expose to rain or moisture, as this may present an electric
shock hazard,

- Replace the fuse with the correct type and rating only.

Warning: This equipment must be earthed.

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 AC Mains Supply.

The compressor is fitted with an internationally approved 3 pin IEC connector. A mating
socket with power cord and mains plug is supplied. All mains wiring should be performed by
a qualified electrician with all power switched off, and the earth connection must be used.

The unit is specified for operation on nominal 230V a.c. mains only. If the power cable or
mains plug supplied with the unit is not suitable for use in your country, refer to your dealer
for a replacement.

Warning: attempted operation on the wrong voltage setting, or with an
incorrect fuse, will invalidate the warranty.

3.2 Line Inputs.

Each channel has a 3 pin TRS jack socket on the rear panel, which will accept balanced or
unbalanced line inputs providing the mating plug is suitably wired:

Balanced inputs:

- Screen = Ground,

- Tip = Signal Phase (“+” or “hot”),

- Ring = Signal Non-Phase (“-” or “cold”).

Unbalanced inputs:

- Screen = Ground,

- Tip = Signal Phase (“+” or “hot”),

- Ring = Ground.

Good quality screened cable should be used, particularly for microphone or low level
sources, to prevent hum or noise pickup. Refer to Figure 3 for rear panel connector
identification.

3.3 Instrument Inputs.

Each channel has a 0.25” jack socket on the front panel (see Figure 2). A 2 pin (mono) jack
plug is required, which should be wired as follows:

- Tip = Signal Phase (“+” or “hot”),

- Screen = Ground.

3.4 Outputs.

The outputs via 3 pin TRS jack sockets on the rear panel, and may be configured for
balanced or unbalanced connection. Balanced operation is always preferable to maintain
m aximum headroom and signal to noise ratio, but can only be used if the following equipment
is also capable of balanced operation:

Balanced outputs:

- Screen = Ground,