Tonelux Dynalux Dual-Channel Compressor

The Tonelux Dynalux is a high-performance, dual-channel analog rack-mount compressor designed in part by Paul Wolff and perfected by the Tonelux design team engineers. Built with Tonelux’s proprietary all-discrete circuitry, the Dynalux combines precision dynamics control with flexible tonal shaping, making it an indispensable tool for both tracking and mixing.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPRESSION

At its core, the Dynalux features the TX-240 discrete op-amps, TX-260 output stage, and TX-100 transformers, combined to delivery the signature Tonelux clarity and punch. Its unique TYPE control blends classic feedback and modern feed-forward compression styles, while the onboard Wet/Dry mix knob provides true in-module parallel compression. A dedicated Tilt side-chain EQ lets you tame low-frequency pumping and add high-frequency presence without compromising dynamics.

The Dyanlux is the stereo channel that addresses the complex issues with compression. With the ability to do in-module parallel mixing of the dry signal and the compressed signal, the engineer can now enjoy the parallel or “side chaining” of an instrument with itself and come up with the perfect blend of the original and compressed signal without the problems associated with in-the-box latency.

In addition to the MIX knob, the Dynalux has many other unique features not found on any compressor made today. The ability of being able to switch between feedback and feed-forward compression is something that is not new to Tonelux. However, Tonelux decided to take it one step further by providing the ability to fade between feedback compression and feed-forward compression with the TYPE control. This feature gives the engineer the freedom to combine the smooth nature of the Feed Back type of compression with the aggressive effect of Feed Forward compression.

OVER COMPRESS WITH RATIO CONTROL

In addition to the feedback/feed-forward Type control, the Dynalux can over compress with the RATIO control, which allows compression ratios from 1.5:1 to 20:1, and then beyond, with the “OVER:” ratio setting. Taking the ratio into the “OVER:” area of the RATIO control, will cause the compressor to reduce the gain at a higher ratio than the gain that is going into it. This means that the ratio control allows the compressor to compress an increase in signal of 10 dB with a gain reduction of up to -8dB. Meaning if the signal goes up 10 dB, the output will go down 8dB. To compensate for over compression there is a switchable Auto Makeup gain system that keeps the gain at unity regardless of the amount of compression. Manual MAKE UP gain is also available to compensate with overall output level adjustments.

This becomes useful when taking a pre-compressed snare for instance, and by adjusting the Attack control and setting the Ratio control in the "OVER":area, you can recover the initial impact peak of the snare. This, with the MIX control, can then be blended with the original “flat” snare and you now have a dynamic snare sound once again, but with a very controlled peak.

TILT AND IPN CONTROL

The Dynalux also inserts the now famous “TILT” and new IPN (Inverse Power Noise) control into the side chain of the RMS detector, so you can increase the highs and decrease the lows going into the RMS detector, virtually eliminating the effects of pumping because the detector is seeing a more uniform distribution of energy across the spectrum instead of a bass heavy signal like most compressors and with the IPN filter equalizing the signal to the RMS detector, so it "hears" like the human ear.

The Attack control has a X5 switch to allow for a range of extremely fast attack times (in the micro second range) all the way through a very smooth slow attack, more suited for leveling. The Release control can be almost instantaneous to 3 seconds. The Dynalux Release circuit is a unique three stage circuit that auto releases the faster signals at a rate of 10 times the release of the lower frequency signals. All of this and an auto-makeup gain system that always keeps the gain at unity, regardless of the amount of compression.

DUAL MONO OR STEREO

The Dynalux can be set to be used as a Dual Mono or Stereo compressor. There is also a “Varilink” control which allows the user to vary the link percentage of channel 1 and 2 dynamics, and a system that monitors channel 1 and 2 setups to enable the link. With four VU meters for Gain Reduction or selectable Input or Output gain, the Dynalux can be used in mono or stereo configurations with ease.

TONELUX DYNALUX FEATURES:

• Proprietary Tonelux TX-240 op-amp, TX-260 output, and TX-100 transformer provide rich, detailed tone
• TYPE control blends feedback warmth with feed-forward precision for hybrid compression styles
• Built-in Wet/Dry MIX knob for instant in-module parallel compression
• Tonelux Tilt filter keeps bass tight and highs open, IPN filter to have the detector "hear" like a human ear
• Ratios from 1.5:1 to 20:1, plus “Over” mode for explosive transient shaping
• Ultra-fast to slow attack/release options with automatic makeup gain
• Linkable for 2-channel use with adjustable link control
• 4 VU meters onboard for monitoring gain reduction, and selectable input or output levels