Alesis Introduces New 400 Series Signal Processing
LineCLX-440 Compressor/Limiter/Expander and PEQ-450
Parametric EQ
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CLX-440 Compressor/Limiter/Expander
(Click for a close-up) |
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PEQ-450 Parametric EQ
(Click for a close-up) |
January 20, 2001Alesis debuts the first two entries in its new 400 Series signal processing
line at Winter NAMM. The new line features a striking new industrial design and
unique "dual-stereo" processing to provide highly flexible and very
powerful sound shaping capabilities for the audio professional.
Rather than relying on complex menus and complicated interfaces, each 400 series
product is designed to perform a dedicated function extremely well, using the
highest quality components and familiar, analog-style controls. Additionally,
the 400 Series features four-channel "dual-stereo" processing to give
users more channels of processing at very affordable prices. The CLX-440 compressor/limiter/expander
and the PEQ-450 parametric equalizer each have a manufacturer's suggested retail
price of $399.
CLX-440 is a professional, full-featured compressor/limiter/expander that combines
separate compression and expansion sections for each stereo channel, with "look-ahead"
capability, side-chain and "key" functions, continuously-variable soft/hard
knee and peak/RMS controls. Two sets of front-panel meters provide confirmation
of input, output, compression and expansion activity. Alesis has developed special
algorithms to provide a broad range of dynamics options-from gentle to aggressive-to
meet the requirements of live sound and studio production. CLX-440 also features
a side chain I/O that allows the user to insert an external equalizer, such as
the PEQ-450, into the dynamic side chain for specialized functions such as EQ
dependent limiting and "de-essing". A special "look-ahead"
function allows dynamic processing to start before the signal is present, by delaying
the audio path by approximately one millisecond.
The PEQ-450 is a dual-stereo 5-band, fully parametric equalizer
with 20Hz to 20kHz EQ control, +/- 18dB boost/cut controls, continuously-variable
Q, high and low shelving, high- and low-pass filters and input/output metering.
The PEQ-450 is the first pro quality parametric equalizer to break the sub-thousand-dollar
price point. It includes qualities offered in more expensive parametric equalizers
such as high quality pots and switches, separate frequency gain and Q controls
for each band, plus high-pass and low-pass filters. The unique "chain"
mode allows all 10 bands of EQ to be used in tandem to process two stereo signals
simultaneously. An internal power supply and balanced 1/4" TRS input and
output jacks complement the impressive features of both two-rack products.
Hidden beneath the aluminum-extruded chassis of these units, is a tremendous
amount of processing horsepower and a unique routing scheme that gives the 400
Series even more flexibility and power for the user. Unlike standard two-channel
processing products which traditionally "link" both channels for a simulated
stereo operation, the CLX-440 allows two true stereo programs to be processed
simultaneously, and the PEQ-450 allows dual-stereo 5-band or "chained"
10-band dual-stereo operation. The dual-stereo capability is very useful in studio
and live sound applications where multiple channels of audio need to be processed
simultaneously.
"This ingenious use of Alesis Semiconductor technology allows us to provide
unprecedented performance at a break-through price point," relates Peter
Chaikin, Director of Product Marketing. "Utilizing a familiar interface,
the operation of these products is quite straightforward, but the dual-stereo
aspect gives them an extraordinary level of functionality."
With superb sonic performance, unprecedented level of control, and four channels
of processing, the 400 Series is targeted for use in studio, live-sound, installation
and broadcast applications. The CLX-440 and PEQ-450 will ship in the spring, each
with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $399. For more information, visit their web site at www.alesis.com. | 
