Help for a first time compression user

[casonwood]

So I just bought my first compression unit, a bbe maxcom, for my rack and I understand the basic controls (ratio, threshold, attack, and release), but I have a few questions. I understand what the threshold control does, but I don't know what the 'gate threshold' knob does.

The unit also comes with a sonic maximizer and to be honest I have no idea what that does as I bought it for the two channels of compression. If anyone could tell me what the 'process' and 'lo contour' knobs do that would be awesome.

Also, I want to run very little compression on one channel and more compression on the second channel; if anyone could give me some basic starting positions to tweak around with it would be appreciated.

[Bassamatic]

I don't know this unit, but a "gate" usually mutes the output when the volume is below a certain level. Like when you stop playing etc.

Perhaps the user guide is available online?

The Sonic Maximizer is a type of extreme High frequency boost that boosts more the louder you play . This is called high frequency expansion. It also has a fixed bass boost. The SM can add a huge amount of level. Be very careful with this if you use it at all.

[bongomania]

Check the FAQ linked in my sig for a full explanation of all the comp and gate functions, and how to set up the channels. Gio is right, the gate threshold knob controls the threshold where the gate opens and closes (mutes and doesn't mute). The sonic maximizer essentially can be treated like an EQ that boosts highs ("process") and boosts lows ("lo contour"). Whether it's actually fancier than just an EQ is open to debate.