Fairfield Circuitry The Accountant Compressor User Manual

Introduction

The Fairfield Circuitry The Accountant is an all-analog, JFET feedback compressor designed to provide dynamic control for various audio sources, including guitars, bass, vocals, and synthesizers. It offers a simple interface for adjusting threshold, compression ratio, and makeup gain, allowing for subtle dynamic shaping or extreme signal squeezing.

Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of The Accountant Compressor pedal, showing controls and jacks.

The Accountant pedal features a straightforward control layout:

• VOL Knob: Controls the output volume or makeup gain of the compressed signal. Turn clockwise to increase volume.
• RATIO Switch: A three-position toggle switch that selects the compression ratio. The positions are typically labeled 0, 1, and 2, offering different levels of compression intensity.
• PAD Switch: A three-position toggle switch that applies an input pad, useful for accommodating different input signal levels. The positions are typically labeled 0, 1, and 2.
• Footswitch: Engages or bypasses the effect.
• Input/Output Jacks: Standard 1/4-inch audio jacks for connecting your instrument and amplifier/next pedal in the signal chain.
• Power Input: Standard 9V DC input for power supply.

Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC power supply (center-negative, 9mA minimum) to the power input jack. The pedal can also be powered by a 9V battery.
2. Input Connection: Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar, bass) or the output of a preceding effect pedal to the 1/4-inch input jack on The Accountant.
3. Output Connection: Connect the 1/4-inch output jack of The Accountant to your amplifier's input or the input of the next effect pedal in your signal chain.
4. Initial Settings: Before powering on, set the VOL knob to a low position, and the RATIO and PAD switches to their '0' positions to start with minimal effect.

Ensure all connections are secure before applying power to prevent unexpected noise or damage.

Operating Instructions

Once connected, you can begin to explore the compression capabilities of The Accountant:

• Engaging the Effect: Press the footswitch to toggle the effect on or off. An indicator light (if present) will illuminate when the effect is active.
• Adjusting Volume (VOL): Use the VOL knob to set the overall output level of the pedal. This acts as a makeup gain control, allowing you to compensate for any perceived volume loss due to compression or to boost the signal.
• Setting Compression Ratio (RATIO): Experiment with the RATIO switch positions (0, 1, 2) to find the desired amount of compression.
  • Position 0: Typically a lighter compression or bypass.
  • Position 1: Moderate compression, suitable for subtle dynamic control.
  • Position 2: Higher compression, for more squashed or sustained tones.
• Using the Input Pad (PAD): The PAD switch helps optimize the pedal's response to different input signal strengths.
  • Position 0: No pad, suitable for lower output instruments.
  • Position 1: Moderate pad, for standard instrument levels.
  • Position 2: Higher pad, for hot signals or line-level inputs to prevent clipping.
• Experimentation: The interaction between the RATIO and PAD settings, along with your instrument's output and playing dynamics, will significantly affect the resulting sound. Spend time experimenting to discover the full range of tones available.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the pedal's enclosure with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the finish or internal components.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Battery Replacement: If using battery power, replace the 9V battery when the indicator light dims or the sound quality degrades. Disconnect input/output cables to conserve battery life when not in use.
• Cable Care: Ensure all audio and power cables are in good condition. Damaged cables can lead to signal loss or noise.

Troubleshooting

Specifications