Harrison Multi-Band Compressor simplifies multiband dynamics with an intelligent algorithm that auto-calculates attack and release, plus phase-accurate internal processing for natural, glue-like mix results.
Purpose
Harrison Multi-Band Compressor is designed for music, film, broadcast, and video post-production, offering a streamlined alternative to traditional multiband compressors. Its intelligent algorithm simplifies operation by automatically calculating attack, release, and other parameters for each band, aiming for optimal sound without manual tweaking. This reduces the complexity of managing numerous finicky controls.
The plugin processes internally to ensure phase accuracy and a flat pass-band, which contributes to a natural sound that preserves instrument character. With few controls, users can locate problem frequencies and choose the amount of correction, making it suitable for both corrective and creative dynamics processing.
Key Capabilities
Each band allows up to 12dB of gain reduction, providing control over peaks and transients. The built-in RTA analyzer visualizes the input or output signal in real time, aiding precise EQ and compression adjustments. Band Solo and Auto-Solo features let users isolate frequency ranges; Auto-Solo automatically plays the band being modified, while Band Solo allows manual listening to any band.
The sidechain key input includes a dedicated EQ, enabling any signal to trigger compression in each band. This supports transparent compression or creative effects like ducking, de-essing, and parallel compression. An expander mode is also available, expanding creative possibilities beyond standard compression.
Workflow
The workflow is centered on identifying problem frequencies, selecting the amount of correction, and letting the intelligent algorithm handle time-based parameters. The RTA analyzer assists in visualizing frequency content, while Auto-Solo helps audition changes dynamically. Users can bypass or disable individual bands via the ‘IN’ button to remove them from processing.
For artistic effects, the sidechain input can be routed to drive compression in specific bands, such as using a high-pass filtered sidechain to affect low-end compression, enabling cross-band dynamics. Ultra-low latency processing supports real-time use, suitable for live recording and playback without noticeable delays.
Practical Applications
This compressor is practical for taming harsh frequencies, enhancing low end, or adding sparkle to highs with minimal effort. Its sidechain features facilitate ducker effects or de-essing on vocals, while expander mode can add gating. The ‘glue’ effect helps make mixes sound cohesive and balanced, suitable for bus processing.
In film and broadcast, it can control dynamics of dialogue or music beds. The ability to drive low-end compression from high-passed sidechains allows for creative cross-band effects, useful for sound design. Overall, it serves as a versatile tool for both corrective and artistic dynamics shaping in diverse audio projects.
Key features
- Intelligent algorithm auto-calculates attack, release, and other parameters per band
- Phase-accurate internal processing with flat pass-band
- Up to 12dB of gain reduction in each band
- Sidechain key input with dedicated EQ for triggering compression
- Expandable mode for pumping and gating effects
- Band Solo and Auto-Solo for isolated frequency listening
- High-resolution RTA analyzer for visualizing input/output spectrum
Best for
Best for music, film, broadcast, and video post-production engineers seeking a simplified multiband compressor with automatic parameter calculation, sidechain capability, and real-time visualization. It suits both corrective dynamics control and creative effects like ducking or cross-band compression, offering natural sound with minimal controls.