BSS Audio Expands OPAL Series with New DPR-944 2+2The BSS DPR-944 2+2 Parametric Compressor/Gate brings four channels of dynamic processing to the BSS Audio Opal Series
January 29, 1998BSS Audio has recently expanded their critically acclaimed Opal Series with the
DPR-944 2+2 Parametric Compressor/Gate. The BSS DPR944 brings four channels of dynamic processing to the Opal Range. It features two frequency-conscious noise gates and two parametric compressors for unmatched dynamic frequency control.
The unique new Parametric Compressor function is derived from the legendary
DPR-901 and can be used for such constructive processing as: microphone de- popping, proximity effect control, de-essing and de-clicking as well as other creative applications. Of course, the DPR-944 compressor also offers conventional wide-band processing of the highest order which users have come to expect from BSS Audio. Both channels employ BSS' subtractive gain reduction technique which achieves the highest audio quality in any dynamic processor.
The noise gate section of the 944 is a descendant of the tour-sound standard DPR-504 and features a parametric side-chain filter control plus a momentary side-chain monitor button. Rotary controls for threshold and release time allow the user to contour the envelope to quickly and easily achieve the desired effect.
Since the four channels of processing are independent, the user can determine exactly the order and assignment of the gate and compressor processing of his choosing.
The DPR-944 also features electronically balanced inputs and outputs. The gates and the compressors are also linkable for stereo processing.
The OPAL range is competitively priced and has a striking visual appeal, yet offers uncompromised audio quality and functionality. The Opal Series has been well received by more market sectors than the company traditionally addresses, such as project studios, performing musicians and a wider cross section of sound reinforcement companies.
The first two products introduced in the Opal Series were Dynamics Processors: the DPR-422 Dual Compressor/De-Esser and the DPR-522 Dual Noise Gate, both essential items in any processing rack, whether in the studio, on the road, or in fixed installations. Both products feature electronically balanced inputs and outputs, and comprehensive signal metering for rapid system monitoring. Unusually, the side chain inserts are also balanced and on separate connectors. To facilitate matching both professional and semi-professional equipment, inputs and outputs on the DPR-422 can be switched to operate at +4dBu or -10dBV nominal levels.
The DPR-422 Dual Compressor/De-Esser is unique in its inclusion of comprehensive de-essing capabilities within the same unit as a classic compressor design. The compressor section uses a double-side chain architecture with only a subtractor and gain control in the main signal path, while the sophisticated control circuitry (including a
VCA) lies parallel to the main signal path. Broadband or advanced frequency selective compression is produced by subtraction from the main signal. This not only ensures a cleaner, purer signal, but forms the basis of entirely new possibilities in signal processing.
The BSS De-Esser design is recognised worldwide as a highly-desirable item in the engineers toolkit, and provides two main de-essing options to suit different program material and means of reproduction. Broadband de-essing adds to normal compressor functionality with the ability to compress the whole signal when high frequency components exceed the preset de-ess threshold level. For greater precision in demanding applications, it can be set by the main compressor controls. The De-Ess HF mode uses all the compressor control circuitry to create a dedicated, frequency-selective de-esser channel compressing high frequency signals while leaving low frequency content unmodified.
The DPR-522 Dual gate offers very sophisticated control over the critical key side chain, yet is easy to set up due to a parametric key filter with adjustable frequency and width. Other functions help the engineer configure the gates quickly and precisely, such as the CHECK key which manually opens the gate for line checks or testing the key envelope; and KEY LISTEN, which allows the response of the filter chain to be monitored. The intuitive side-chain metering developed for the classic BSS DPR-502/504 dual and quad gates has been enhanced with the addition of the OPEN/SHUT LED's which mimic the envelope time constants of the gate.
With these unique features, the OPAL Series finds itself at home in the studio or on the stage, in the processing rack, the effects rack, or wherever dynamic control is needed. For more information on the complete range of BSS Audio signal processing products, contact BSS Audio (note: new phone/fax numbers), 1449 Donelson Pike, Nashville, TN 37217. Tel: 615/360-0277; Fax: 615/360-0480. Visit their web site at www.bssaudio.co.uk. | 
