Rating:

Manual mode which allows user to adjust the settings.

Input/output gains and gain make-up controls remain adjustable to allow gain balancing for different systems.

Instrument Input: Allows guitars, basses and keyboards
to feed directly into the front panel, removing the
need for a separate DI box.

Line Inputs/Outputs: Provided on balanced 1/4" jack,
but compatible with unbalanced signals. Switchable
between -10dB and +4dB.

A meter which can be switched between gain and compression views.

And finally a Bypass button.

What I liked:
This unit was nearly transparent, extremely quiet. I used it in a digital recording session and the sound qualities brought about by the tube added plenty of warmth and an incredibly rich sound. The presets worked as advertised, I never ended up using the manual mode in the studio.

I also used it in a live performance utilizing again the presets, I just could not compete. Again the warmth added to the hall the band played in was truly noticeable as I punched the the bypass to weigh the difference. Using an EQ would have done an adequate job, but just turning the compressor on and using the "mix 1" setting did it for me.

The final test was in mixing down a live recording. This time the presets just couldn't do it and the manual setting finally came in handy. Again I can't say enough about the warmth of this unit. I hardly used any EQ because the FATMAN manual settings allowed me to sculpt the sound to taste.

I did use it on vocals as well and for the alternative style vocals I was recording it did a good job, it's strength though is in instruments.

What I didn't:
The thing I really didn't like was that I couldn't use it as two mono compressors.

And the purple face plate (on this version) made the print hard to read on the settings, so I was constantly bending to look at the unit to check what my settings were.

User Tips:
Becareful not to overdrive the tube. I was suprised at how easily overdriven it was, however once you find your balance of levels between your send and return, input and output gain, and then the gain up control you can really push the compressor and it responds incredibly well.

I don't like compression to be heard or used excessively and this box performed for me better than I had imagined it would. I will use this unit for an awfully long time as it has become my favorite piece of outboard gear.

*****My rating is based upon how well it worked as advertised. And after reveiwing the brochure it was indeed all of that.******

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