The Alan Smart C1 Compressor has enormous popularity among studios in the US West Coast and the UK.
The C1 compressor houses two independent mono compressors, or in stereo mode, the left-hand controls operate both audio channels, with the right-hand controls not used, giving true Stereo operation.
The Alan Smart C1 can be used as two independent monos for tracking or mixing as well as stereo when in link mode, making the Alan Smart C1 the perfect, versatile all round unit.
The C1 compressor (along with its brother the C2) when used across a mix buss is typically described as having a tight ‘in your face’ characteristic - which gives a huge amount of apparent gain, allowing tracks to stand out on the radio or on the dancefloor with a solid bottom end. Partly for this reason, the Alan Smart series of compressors have become industry standard as mix buss compressor, and no self respecting mix engineer would dare leave home without one.
The characteristic sound of the C1 arises mostly from the fast response at the onset of compression, which when delayed to occur around the mid range attack settings (after 0.3 to 3 milliseconds) results in a window through which transients can still pass. When used accross a mix, or with any dynamic programme, this has the effect of adding 'punch' while still controlling overall levels.
Alan Smart C1 Features :
- Original black front panel version of C2 compressor
- High performance stereo mix or instrument compressor
- 130dB dynamic range
- New generation VCA's
- fast slew rate amplifiers
- Two sets of controls and two audio channels
Alan Smart C1 Operation :
Fast attack and limit settings for protective limiting.
Power fail bypass for broadcast or live sound.
Ratios 1.5:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 10:1 and Limit.
Attack 0, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10, and 30 m/sec.
Release 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 1.2, and 2.4 seconds.
Alan Smart C1 Circuitry :
New generation of Voltage Controlled Amplifiers.
High slew rate amplifiers, with hybrid f.e.t/ transistor inputs (Analog Devices).
High current push-pull transistor outputs.
Total symmetry throughout signal path.
No electrolytic capacitors used in main signal path.
All inputs and outputs balanced.
Smart Research - High Performance Mix Buss Compressors.
The fact that the Smart Research C1, and C2 compressors have a lot in common with SSL's legendary analog compression circuit is no accident. Alan Smart was an engineer with SSL for many years, having installed and serviced countless SSL consoles in studios worldwide. His experience with SSL consoles led to the development of the C1 and C2 compressors, which have become some of the most popular mix buss compressors on the market.
Whats the difference between the C1 and the C2 ????
The C1 is the original Smart compressor. It is basically a black faced version of the C2 minus the sidechain inputs and the CRUSH mode. The C1 still delivers the ability to run stereo or dual mono, and has that legendary sound that is a must have for the mix buss.
Based upon the classic C1, the Alan Smart C2 offers the same punchy, in-your-face sound with several refinements, including fully balanced operation, side-chain input, and the curious "crunch" mode.
