Maselec MLA-4 Multiband Compressor / Expander

The Maselec MLA-4 Multiband Compressor/Expander is a 3-band compressor with expander functionality, a sidechain, and 2 x XLR input and output connectors.

The input signal is split into three frequency bands. Each band is passed through a stereo compressor/expander, where gain and processing can be altered. The outputs of the compressors/expanders are then re-combined and fed to the outputs. There are four different frequencies for each of the two crossovers that can be separately selected for the low-to-mid and the mid-to-high bands. The three frequency-band compressors/expanders have separate controls so that different parts of the audio spectrum can be adjusted and tuned. With separate gain controls for each frequency band, the MLA-4 can also be used as an equalizer. You can always adjust the controls for the separate frequency bands to different settings. There is no technical reason why they should be the same for all frequencies. Separate input and output gain controls make the MLA-4 easy to use for different operating levels.

Inputs

The inputs are electronically balanced, virtually ground floating, making them perform as if they are transformer coupled, but without the associated coloration, low-frequency distortion, and restricted bandwidth. The input impedance is 100kohm. Maximum input level is >+29dBu (balanced).

Outputs

The outputs are electronically balanced and can deliver >+28dBu into 600ohm (balanced). Output impedance is 33ohm (balanced and unbalanced). The inputs and outputs can be unbalanced by simply grounding either pin 2 or pin 3.

MLA-4 Features

• Stereo Compressor/Expander with 3 Bands
• Adjustable Crossover Frequencies
• Multiple Sidechain Linking Options
• Selectable Sidechain Boost
• Single-Band or Multiband Output
• Per-Band Threshold, Ratio & Make-Up Gain
• Per-Band Attack & Release Times
• Per-Band Processing Meters
• Master Input, Output & Threshold Knobs
• Balanced XLR 3-Pin I/O

MLA-4 Specifications

• Input Impedance: 100 kohm
• Maximum input level: +29dBu (0dBu = 0.775V)
• Thresholds (0dB input gain): -10dBu to +20dBu
• Typical THD (ratio 1:1): <-90dB
• Frequency Response: within 0.05dB 20Hz to 20kHz
• Bandwidth: greater than 1Hz to 500kHz
• Typical Noise: -90dBu
• Maximum Output level: +28dBu
• Output impedance: 33 ohm