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Multiband Compressor block

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Revision as of 12:33, 13 February 2021 by Yek (talk | contribs) (→‎Parameters)
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Mbc2.jpg Multiband Compressor block.png]]

Available on which products

  • Axe-Fx III: 2 blocks
  • FM3: 1 block
  • Axe-Fx II: 2 blocks
  • AX8: no
  • FX8: no

Channels or X/Y switching

  • Axe-Fx III and FM3: 2 channels
  • Axe-Fx II: no

What is a Multiband Compressor

A multiband compressor (MBC) consists of multiple compressors working in parallel, each operating on a separate band of frequencies. Fractal Audio's Multiband Compressor blocks contains 3 compressors. These compressors work independently, so "pumping" in one band does not affect the others. An MBC is often used as a mastering tool.

More information:

Leon Todd's tutorial on applying Andy Sneap's multicompression trick to improve palm muting

Configure the Multiband Compressor

In-depth programming of the Multiband Compressor is possible, but even at default settings (placed after Amp/Cab) it's performing fine.

Leon Todd shows how to dial in the MBC for high-gain tones

Or just check factory preset: Multicomp Plexi.

Parameters

Compared to the Axe-Fx III version, the FM3's MBC has no Auto Attack/Release switch, and still has the Frequency Range parameters which were deleted on the III.

Parameter Axe-Fx III FM3
Crossover Frequency yes yes
Threshold yes yes
Ratio yes yes
Attack yes yes
Release yes yes
Auto Attack/Release yes no
Level yes yes
Detector yes yes
Mute yes yes
Knee Type yes yes
Crossover Slope yes yes
Frequency Range no yes