ARC ™ (Auto Release Control)
ARC is a system designed to dynamically choose the optimal release value for a wide-ranging input.
ARC reacts much the way a human ear expects, and can produce increased RMS level with greater
clarity.
In many uses of compressors, the exact choice of time constants is set as a careful choice of reaction
to RMS and peak transients. To allow more constant compression with fewer artifacts, the release
time must change to control different parts of the signal. In ARC, similar to the human ear, RMS
and peak transients are analyzed and reacted to differently. In general, the release is faster for peak
transients and slower for the overall RMS level.
For instance, with a relatively constant compression of 4dB, peaks beyond this need faster release
times. The ARC system does exactly this, varying the release time to fit the ear’s expectations while
increasing RMS, and without creating distracting artifacts. In this way, the Renaissance Compressor
can serve as a leveler plus a fast compressor simultaneously. This feature also serves gentle mastering
applications quite well, but generally with slower release times.This button selects between the Auto-
Release (ARC) and Manual modes.
ARC mode uses the Waves auto-release technology: the user sets the release time as an overall scaling
factor and the ARC algorithm varies the release based on the input signal. Its character is similar to a
responsive, vintage program compressor but also works well for individual tracks.
Manual mode disables ARC.
Compression Behavior
Electro mode decreases the release time as the gain reduction drops from 3 dB to 0. As the gain reduction
increases above 3 dB, the release time increases, which makes the compressor act more like a leveler. With
moderate compression, the Electro mode produces a significant increase in RMS level, which makes it ideal
for applications requiring loud overall levels (i.e., voiceover and rock music).
Opto is the inverse of Electro: the release time increases as the gain reduction drops from 3 dB to 0. As gain
reduction increases above 3dB, the release time decreases. This behavior models vintage compressors with a
sharp transient attack and minimal sustain, used for drums and similarly percussive instruments.
Character
The Character button toggles between Smooth and Warm low-frequency characteristics.
The Warm setting adds low-frequency harmonics as the gain reduction increases. The Smooth setting does
not add harmonics and preserves the natural character of the signal.
Y56K User Guide
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