FMR Audio 500 Series Really Nice Compressor
Based upon the successful Really Nice Compressor, this variation not only fits the increasingly popular API500 series rack, but delivers an improved dynamic fidelity befitting the format! This dynamic-range compressor provides positive signal control while leveraging its pedigree for simultaneously reducing collateral sonic damage. Additionally, we've added some thoughtful features that most folks won't overtly notice, but will be glad that they're there: overcurrent protection prevents a rare failure from bringing down your whole 500-series rack, an early-warning power supply detection that causes the RNC500 to enter bypassirrespective of the front panel switch positionto avoid power-down "pops", a robust 18 guage electro-galvanized enclosure that keeps the delicate electronics safe from harm and helps protect against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from affecting things inside or outside of the enclosure.
How It Sounds
As with the original RNC, the RNC500 can exhibit a sonic neutrality while giving the recordist a level-of-control difficult to obtain without adding unwanted artifacts. Unlike the original RNC, however, the RNC500 possesses a sonic "beefiness"a growl, if you willthat adds a slight, but very compliant, bottom-end to the source material. Years ago, we designed a multi-channel RNC for London's famed Air Studios. It was with that device that we first encountered an RNC with extra "heft". It turns out that much of this "un-RNC like" growl is a result of the higher operating I/O levels like those present on the RNC500. It seems that the harder the RNC500 is hit, the heftier the sound. Overall, we'd still characterize the RNC500 as "clean", but with a hint of attitude...that's under your control!
How It's Done
Like all of our dynamic audio processing products, we've replaced sidechain electronics with chunks of software to accomplish both a bill-of-materials cost reduction while simultaneously improving dynamic performance accuracy and consistency. The beauty of this approach is that the main signal path (all dynamic audio processors have two paths: a sidechain/control path and the main audio path) remains firmly in the analog domain thereby avoiding latency and digital conversion artifacts that are sometimes unwanted. Coupled with a faster (40x) processor and higher-resolution (24-bit) arithmetic, sealed switches & relays, multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB) the RNC500 will deliver smooth, controllable and reliable compression for years to come.
FEATURES
• Single-channel, 500-series version of the RNC.
• Balanced input & output.
• Linkable for stereo operation.
• Maximum input/output levels of +28dBu.
• Overcurrent protection circuits safeguard 500-series rack operation in case of power supply faults.
• 24-bit arithmetic for smoother compression.
• SuperNice & Normal modes.
• Accurate signal level metering via power-saving "dot" gain-reduction display.
• Sealed, C&K subminiature toggle switches.
• Blue-anodized, machined aluminum knobs.
Q & A
Reviews
Protect your investment with the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty
A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
- Product Replacement: If your product cannot be fixed or costs too much to fix, we will replace it with the equivalent model for no additional charge. If this is not possible, a full refund will be provided.
- No Lemon Policy: Your product will be replaced should the same problem occur multiple times.
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- Guitar Setup: Guitars purchased at Long & McQuade come with 1 free setup, to be redeemed within 1 year for new guitars and 90 days for used guitars.
- Loaners Available: A loaner product may be given while the product is being repaired.
- Power Surge Protection: Your product is covered even if damaged from a power surge.
- Accessory Coverage: Any peripheral devices or accessories that come with your product (i.e. foot pedal, case) are also covered.
- Commercial Use Coverage: Music and recording professionals who purchase gear for “heavy-use” commercial purposes will still be covered.
Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- GUITARS: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year. $45 maximum. An additional free setup is not included with additional purchased years of Performance Warranty.
- BAND and ORCHESTRAL instruments: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year.