Negative Ratios. elysia xpressor 500

Negative Ratios

Negative ratios – what exactly does this mean? To get a better understanding of this function, it makes sense to realize what the ratio control of a ‘normal’ compressor does:

• 1:1 The signal remains linear, there is no compression process going on.

•

1:2 After crossing the threshold, an increase of 2 dB at the input will be compressed to an increase of 1 dB at the output.

•

1:∞ After crossing the threshold, the output signal is constantly held at the threshold level without reacting to further increases at the input (limiter).

At a negative ratio, the characteristic curve bends and returns back down after crossing the threshold. The louder the input signal, the lower the output signal – perfect for groovy compression effects.

To get a grip on the extreme ‘destruction’ this can cause, engaging the Gain Reduction Limiter is just the right idea.

Standard compression ratio

Input Level (dB)

Negative compression ratio

Input Level (dB)

Output Level (dB) Output Level (dB)

10