Bettermaker C502V Plugin Manual

Introduction

Bettermaker is pleased to introduce the C502V compressor, a DSP emulation of the C502V analog compressor. Designed for both professionals and enthusiasts, the C502V offers a seamless blend of analog warmth and modern digital precision. This plugin captures the essence of three legendary compressors in one powerful tool, delivering exceptional versatility for mixing and mastering.

A key feature of the C502V is the ability to select three different compressor modes, each altering the compressor's character significantly, akin to switching hardware units. Furthermore, users can choose a different mode for each channel and even for the Mid and Side signals. Whether seeking subtle glue for a mix bus, aggressive control for drums, or smooth dynamic shaping, the Bettermaker C502V provides the necessary flexibility and tonal options.

Front Panel - Modes

BM Mode

This mode represents Bettermaker's original approach to compression. It is the smoothest mode with the widest parameter setting range. The attack time spans from 5 to 250 milliseconds, and the release time ranges from 0.01 to 0.8 seconds. This allows for use as a fast, almost limiter-type aggressive compressor or a slow, gentle leveler. The BM mode also includes an Auto release option for simplified operation.

SG Mode

Inspired by a renowned British console manufacturer's famous buss compressor, this mode offers similar character and settings. It provides additional options such as Dry/Wet mix, sidechain filtering, and channel unlinking.

DX Mode

The DX mode is inspired by one of the most famous studio "workhorses." It features fixed attack and release times, delivering the most aggressive compression. Despite its aggressive nature, it is frequently used on vocals, bass, drums, and guitars.

Front Panel - Controls

Threshold

Controls the level above which compression occurs. Turning the knob counter-clockwise increases compression.

Attack

Sets the time that must elapse after the input signal reaches the Threshold level before compression is applied.

Ratio

Defines the amount of gain reduction applied by the compressor. A higher ratio results in stronger compression and a more "squeezed" sound.

Release

Determines the time the compressor continues to work after the signal has fallen below the threshold. The Auto release feature allows the compressor to set the release time based on the music content.

Mix

Allows for blending the uncompressed signal with the VCA processed signal for parallel compression. This control does not affect the VCA THD MIX setting.

Engage

Engages the C502V Compressor. The ENGAGE button must be illuminated to hear any changes made by the compressor.

Additional Controls and Waveform Display

SC HPF

Turns sidechain high-pass filter (HPF) filtering on or off.

MODE

Changes the compressor mode to one of the three available options.

Output

Compensates for gain reduction or THD-related level increases by adjusting the overall output gain.

VCA THD

Enables VCA THD saturation. The THD knob controls the amount of harmonic content generated.

Zoom

Adjusts the gain range of the waveform display.

Speed

Adjusts the speed of the waveform movement. Slower speeds reveal more content, while faster speeds display more detail.

Bottom Toolbar

Mid/Side

By default, the stereo plugin operates on the Left/Right channels. For enhanced stereo image control, it can be set to operate on Mid/Side.

Channel Mode

When channel linking is active, the same settings apply to both channels. Pressing L, R, M, or S buttons automatically unlinks the channels.

Monitoring

Allows switching between Mid, Side, Left, or Right monitoring.

Audition (AUDIT)

Enables sidechain listening.

External Sidechain

This button switches between using an external sidechain signal and the internal sidechain (the input signal itself). If turned off, the internal sidechain is used. When turned on with MS mode active, the first sidechain channel affects the Mid signal, and the second channel affects the Side signal.

Double Panel

Opens the double panel to view settings for both channels. If the button is inactive, it indicates the plugin is running in mono mode.

Waveform

Opens or closes the waveform display.

Top Toolbar

Settings Menu

Opens the settings menu, allowing users to show/hide hints, change plugin size, and check the plugin version.

Preset Name (and Arrows)

Clicking the preset name opens the preset menu. Users can save and load presets from/to files and select the desired preset.

Undo / Redo (Arrows)

Provides a history of 32 steps of parameter changes.

Settings (A / B / C / D)

These functions enable instant switching between different settings configurations. This feature facilitates quick mixing or mastering decisions by allowing comparison of four distinct settings without manual knob adjustments, preserving perspective.

Copy / Paste / Reset

Allows copying and pasting settings between banks or resetting parameters to their default values.

Menu Mode

In single panel mode, space is limited. The Menu Mode button allows switching between two sets of functionalities to access all features.

Bottom Toolbar

PA Logo

Clicking the Plugin Alliance logo redirects the user to the Plugin Alliance website via their web browser, provided an internet connection is available.

License Type

The toolbar displays the current license type. Trial licenses show the number of days remaining until expiration; full licenses are unlimited and not explicitly noted.

$ [Currency Symbol]

If using a demo or trial version, clicking this icon opens a browser that directs to the product's page in the Plugin Alliance store, facilitating purchase.

Key [?]

Clicking the key icon opens the activation dialog, allowing manual reauthorization of a device for license upgrades or additions. This feature can also be used to activate additional computers or USB flash drives.

? [Help]

Clicking the question mark icon opens a context menu with links to the product manual PDF and other helpful resources, such as product update information. A PDF reader is required to view the manual.

System Requirements & FAQ (Links)

For the latest System Requirements & Supported Platforms: plugin-alliance.com/en/system-requirements.html

Particular details for your product: plugin-alliance.com/en/products.html

Installation, Activation, Authorisation and FAQ's: plugin-alliance.com/en/support.html