Audio Compressor/Audio-Band Splitter

Description: This 2-band compressor separates audio into high and low frequencies, allowing for independent adjustments of each band. Two active filters drive the two halves of a dual voltage-controlled amplifier/rectifier integrated circuit (IC). Each section features a dynamic range exceeding 100 dB. The compression gain slopes can be adjusted from 2 to 25 for both audio bands. The iB control adjusts the threshold amplitude between the two bands. RK1 and R2/C2 manage the compressor's attack times (10 kΩ and 2, respectively), while a 1.5 kΩ resistor in the integrator circuit regulates the release time.

This 2-band compressor circuit is designed to enhance audio processing by allowing for precise control over high and low frequency bands. The circuit employs two active filters that effectively divide the audio signal into its respective frequency components. Each band is processed independently, which provides flexibility in adjusting the tonal characteristics of the audio output.

The core of the compressor utilizes a dual voltage-controlled amplifier/rectifier IC, which is essential for maintaining a high dynamic range. With a dynamic range greater than 100 dB in each section, the circuit is capable of handling a wide variety of audio signals without introducing distortion or unwanted artifacts.

Compression gain slopes, adjustable between 2 and 25 for both audio bands, allow for fine-tuning of the compression effect. This feature is particularly useful in applications where different audio signals may require varying levels of dynamic control. The adjustment of the threshold amplitude between the two bands is facilitated by the iB control, which enables the user to set the point at which compression begins for each frequency range.

Attack and release times are critical parameters in compressor design, influencing how quickly the circuit responds to changes in the audio signal. In this design, RK1 and R2/C2 are responsible for controlling the attack times, set at 10 kΩ and a capacitance value of 2, respectively. This configuration allows for a tailored response to transient signals, ensuring that the compressor reacts appropriately to peaks in the audio signal. The release time is managed by a 1.5 kΩ resistor in the integrator circuit, determining how quickly the compressor returns to its uncompressed state after the signal falls below the threshold.

Overall, this 2-band compressor circuit offers a sophisticated solution for audio processing, providing users with the ability to manipulate sound dynamics effectively while maintaining high fidelity and performance. This 2-band compressor splits the audio into high and low frequencies and allows independent adjustmen t of each. TVo active filters drive the two halves of dual voltage controlled amplifier/rectifier IC. Each section has a dynamic range greater than 100 dB. Compression gain slopes are adjustable from 2 to 25 for both audio bands. iB adjusts the threshold amplitude between the two bands. RK1 and R2/C2 control the compressor attack times (10 kfl and 2, respectively), while the 1.5- resistor in the integrator circuit controls the release line.