Pendulum OCL-2 User manual

Pendulum OCL-2 Operating Manual http://www.pendulumaudio.com/OCL2manual.html
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OCL-2 Vacuum Tube Compressor/Limiter-
Operating Manual
Features
·Fast electro-optical input attenuator with an all tube gain stage
·Soft-knee design with fully adjustable compression ratio
·Transformerless high voltage class A signal path
·Low noise, wide bandwidth and superior transient response
·Custom optical cells matched for precise stereo balance
·Three sidechain operating modes: Fast, Presets and Manual
·Two completely independent channels with stereo linking
·Hard bypass switches for each channel
·Sidechain inserts for frequency-dependent compression and de-essing
·Transformerless output stage capable of delivering +35dBu
·Soft-start warm-up with output muting
·Gold-plated switch contacts, I/O connectors and tube sockets
·Fully regulated high voltage (300V), filament and bipolar power supplies
·Custom toroidal power transformer with shield for minimum hum
·Polypropylene capacitors and metal film resistors
·Single-sided audio pc boards to minimize capacitive interaction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Pendulum OCL-2, a modern two channel
electro-optical compressor/limiter designed for the utmost in transparency, detail
and versatility. Our short signal path design uses a custom optical input
attenuation network in front of an all tube class A gain stage. Since the signal
path is entirely transformerless, we've eliminated the coloration inherent in
traditional transformer-coupled tube designs. The result is an open, detailed
sound with an expanded sound stage and clarity that can only be achieved with
modern tube circuitry.
The OCL-2's soft-knee design offers smooth, effortless dynamic control with the
ratio adjustable from light compression to limiting. Our unique sidechain circuit
linearizes the optical gain element to reduce distortion, and achieves much faster
attack and release times than encountered with conventional optical compressors.
Stereo linking is accomplished with the flip of a switch .
For maximum versatility, the OCL-2 has three modes of dynamics processing: In
the FAST mode, the compressor works as fast as the optical element will allow,
and is remarkably free of the 'pumping' artifacts normally encountered with
slower optical compressors. It's the ideal choice for invisible dynamics
processing, either for tracking or tight program compression.
The PRESET mode consists of six classic attack/release time settings that are
optimized for program compression, including two settings with
program-dependent release times.
The MANUAL mode offers total control over the attack and release times, which
is particularly useful for creative compression effects or for processing bass
guitar.
Most important, the hard bypass switches on the front panel conveniently allow a

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quick determination of exactly what the OCL-2 is, or in most cases, isn't doing to
your signal.
Unpacking
The unit was carefully packed at the factory to protect against damage in transit.
Nevertheless, be sure to inspect the unit and shipping carton for any signs of
damage that may have occurred during shipment. If there is any damage, notify
us immediately for further instructions. It's also a good idea to save the carton
and packing materials should you ever need to return the unit for repair. The
shipping carton should contain the following items: the OCL-2 Vacuum Tube
Compressor/Limiter, a 3 prong IEC power cord, and this operating manual.
Mounting
The OCL-2 uses two EIA-standard rack spaces, and can be mounted in any
standard 19 inch (483mm) equipment rack. If the OCL-2 is mounted in a mobile
rack or road case, it is important that the rear of the chassis is supported to
prevent possible damage from mechanical shock and vibration. Excessive shock
and vibration can cause damage or premature failure of the vacuum tubes, or
cause them to shaken loose from their sockets. Please avoid rough handling.
Ventilation
For proper operation, it is very important that adequate ventilation is provided.
Vacuum tubes produce a significant amount of heat that must be removed from
inside the chassis. The side panel vent holes and top panel slit vents should never
be blocked in any way. Never mount the OCL-2 below a rack unit with a depth
greater than 7 inches (178mm). Do not mount the OCL-2 near other
heat-producing equipment such as power amplifiers or other vacuum tube
products. If possible, leave open at least one rack space above the unit, and use a
rack spacer with a ventilation grille. Never operate the OCL-2 inside a road case
where the side panels are cushioned in foam.
Preventing Ground Loop Hum
One of the reasons the OCL-2 sounds so good is that unlike many other vacuum
tube products, it operates single-ended, Class A, and has a signal path that is
completely transformerless. However, it does not benefit from the galvanic
isolation provided by input or output transformers. For this reason, a few
precautions are necessary to insure hum-free operation:
· Isolate the front panel from the rack rails. Use plastic shoulder washers to
prevent electrical contact between the rack ears of the OCL-2 and the metal rails
of the equipment rack.
· Isolate the OCL-2 from units mounted above or below it in the rack. Make sure
the front panels are not in electrical contact and that the top or bottom cover
screws of the OCL-2 are not touching those of any other units.
· Connect the 3 prong IEC power cord to the single-point star grounded electrical
source for your
facility.
The idea here is to make sure the OCL-2 seeks ground at only one point. For
safety reasons, do not lift the ground at the IEC power cord. Keep in mind that in
a properly grounded hookup, the OCL-2 does not hum. Please, take the time to
do this right, and you will be rewarded with hum-free operation. Call us if you
have any questions. Please note that pin 2 is hot.
Power Requirements
The OCL-2 is equipped with a 3-prong IEC power connector and detachable
cord. Never operate the OCL-2 with the ground on the power cord defeated.
Unless otherwise stated, this unit operates from 120V/60 Hz at 30W. The ac fuse
is accessible from the rear panel and is rated at 1A/250V (3AG) SLO-BLO. To

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check or replace the fuse, make sure the unit is unplugged. Operation at
240V/50Hz is available as an option. Please contact us for more information.
Servicing
Other than changing the tubes, the user should not attempt to service the OCL-2
beyond that described in this manual. Never remove the covers or attempt to
replace the tubes until the unit has been disconnected from the ac power source,
and all circuits inside have been allowed to discharge for a period of at least 30
minutes. The vacuum tubes become very hot once the unit has been turned on,
and they should not be touched until they have cooled to room temperature. To
reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose to rain or moisture, or
operate it where it is exposed to water. Since potentially lethal voltages are
present inside the unit, it should only be opened by qualified service personnel.
Refer all servicing, or any questions about servicing, to Pendulum Audio, Inc.
Operation
While the operation of the OCL-2 may appear to be rather straightforward, there
are a few features which may differ from what you're accustomed to seeing on
other vacuum tube compressors. You may find it useful to refer to the
Condensed Operating Instructions to quickly identify the operation of the
front panel controls. However, we suggest you read through this section to take
advantage of all its features, and to make sure you are operating the OCL-2 in the
way most appropriate for the type of dynamics processing you're doing.
Hookup
Please refer to the rear panel layout (see the Condensed Operating Instructions)
for the location of the inputs, outputs, and ac power. Make all connections to the
OCL-2 before applying power.
Inputs
On the right hand side of the rear panel are the input jacks for channels 1 and 2.
The female XLR connectors on top are 3 pin unbalanced inputs with Pin 1 + Pin
3 = ground, and Pin 2 = positive phase input (+).Use them for connecting the
OCL-2 to +4dBu transformer-balanced or active-balanced sources. If you
encounter ground loop hum when connecting to transformer-balanced outputs,
lift the shield from Pin 1 on the input end of the cable. The input impedance is
10k.
The two 1/4" jacks below the XLR connectors are unbalanced input connectors,
wired in parallel to the XLR inputs, with Tip = Pin 2, Sleeve = Pin 1. Use them
for connecting the OCL-2 to unbalanced (-10dBV) sources. Do not attempt to
use the XLR and 1/4" inputs simultaneously.
Outputs
To the left of the input jacks are the output jacks for channels 1 and 2. The male
XLR connectors on top are 3 pin unbalanced outputs, with Pin 1 + Pin 3 =
ground, and Pin 2 = output. Connect these outputs to XLR- or TRS-balanced
line-level inputs. If you encounter ground loop hum when connecting to balanced
inputs, lift the shield from Pin 1 on the input end of the cable. When connecting
to a balanced patch bay, be sure that Pin 2 = Tip.
The two 1/4" jacks below the XLR connectors are unbalanced output connectors,
wired in parallel to the XLR outputs, with Tip = Pin 2, Sleeve = Pin 1. Use them
for connecting the OCL-2 to unbalanced (-10dBV) inputs or mixer inserts.
AC Power
On the left side of the rear panel is the IEC input socket. Connect to a
120V/60Hz receptacle with the 3 prong IEC power cable supplied with the

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OCL-2. For safety reasons, do not lift the ground on the power plug by using a
3-to-2 ground lift adapter.
Turn on the power to the unit using the ac power switch located above the power
inlet socket. Although it might seem a bit awkward to put the ac power switch on
the rear panel of the OCL-2, there is a very good reason for it. By keeping the ac
away from the front panel, hum induced by the ac line into the front panel
circuitry can be virtually eliminated. This is especially important with the OCL-2,
since the optical gain control circuit is located on one of the front panel circuit
boards.
If necessary, replace the 1A/250v 3AG SLO-BLO fuse only with the same type
and rating.
Power-up Sequence
To prolong tube life, the OCL-2 goes through a soft-start sequence for gently
applying power to the tubes and stabilizing the circuit before engaging the
outputs. When the power switch is turned on, the outputs are relay-muted to
ground and the dc voltage on the tube filaments is ramped up to 12.6Vdc. Next,
the high voltage supply is slowly increased to 300V and the circuit is allowed to
stabilize for about 2 minutes. Finally, the relays lift the outputs from ground and
the blue 'on' led on the front panel is illuminated. For best results, please allow
the OCL-2 to warm up for 10 minutes or longer before use.
OCL-2 Front Panel Controls
Please refer to the front panel layout (see the Condensed Operating Instructions)
for the location of all switches and controls discussed below. The operation of
both channels is identical, unless the two channels are linked. All toggle and
rotary switch contacts are gold-plated for high reliability. All panel rotary
controls are long-life conductive-plastic potentiometers.
Threshold: Off to -20dB
The THRESHOLD control determines how much gain reduction is applied to the
source material. Since the OCL-2 is a 'soft-knee' compressor that uses both
feedforward and feedback sensing, it does not have a strictly-defined 'threshold'.
Rather, the dial markings indicate the amount of gain reduction that is applied to a
steady-state input signal at +4dBu. Use higher settings for -10dBV inputs, and
lower settings for input levels that exceed +4dBu. A maximum of 27dB of gain
reduction is available.
Ratio: 1.5:1 to 15:1
The Ratio control sets the 'slope' of the gain reduction, defined as the signal level
above threshold (in dB) that produces a 1dB increase in the compressor output.
Since the OCL-2 is a soft-knee compressor, its ratio determines the degree of
gain reduction that occurs for signal levels above the knee. In the case of the
OCL-2, the ratio starts at 1:1 and makes a smooth transition to the value indicated
by the ratio control after approximately 5 dB of gain reduction. So, at moderate
compression levels, an adjustment to higher ratio will be heard as a greater
amount of 'restraint' applied to peaks. At higher compression levels, the sound
will become markedly more 'dense' as the ratio is increased.
Output: Off to +20dB
Use the OUTPUT control to boost the signal level after compression. Up to
20dB above the level of the input signal is possible. The unity-gain setting (0dB)
is 12:00. The OUTPUT control on the OCL-2 is a passive level control that is
positioned immediately after the electro-optical input attenuator. For this reason, it
is impossible to overload the input of the OCL-2 tube line amp.
Meter: Input/Gain Reduction/Output

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The illuminated ANSI VU meters are electronically isolated from the signal path,
and can be switched to measure input, output or gain reduction. Keep in mind
that a VU meter is a mechanical device, designed in accordance with a with a
well-accepted ballistic standard, to indicate an average loudness level. On the
other hand, the led meters on your mixer or digital recorder are reading a peak
program level, and faithfully register all those short transient spikes that add little
to the perceived loudness of the program material. The ratio of the peak to
average levels can be 20dB or greater depending on the source (e.g. drums). So,
if you're wondering why the led meters on your recorder are flashing near zero,
but the input and output levels on the VU meters of the OCL-2 are hovering at or
below -10, you're simply seeing the difference between the peak and average
program level.
Input
When the METER switch is in the INPUT position, the VU meter indicates the
signal level at the XLR and 1/4" input connectors. The meter is calibrated to 0dB
= +4dBu (1.23vrms). Use this setting to monitor the average program level into
the optical attenuator at the input of the OCL-2. For the best signal to noise ratio,
the input level should be in the range of -10 to 0 VU.
Gain Reduction
When the METER switch is in the GAIN REDUCTION position, the VU meter
indicates the amount of gain reduction applied to the input source. Keep in mind
that the meter is indicating an average gain reduction, and does not reflect how
the OCL-2 is responding to peaks faster than the meter's response time. When the
peak to average ratio is high (e.g. drums), trust your ears to be the ultimate judge.
Zero
A screwdriver - adjustable trim control, located below the METER switch, is
used for zeroing the meter when it is set to read GAIN REDUCTION. Use a
small, flat-bladed screwdriver, and adjust the meter to indicate 0VU with the
THRESHOLD control set to OFF. Gain Reduction is measured directly off the
electro-optical cell, so it is normal for some drift of the meter to occur until the
temperature of the cell stabilizes. Let the unit warm up at least 20 minutes before
making any adjustment.
Output
When the METER switch is in the OUTPUT position, the VU meter indicates
the signal level at the XLR and 1/4" output connectors. The meter is calibrated to
0dB = +4dBu (1.23vrms). Use this setting to monitor the average program level
sent to a tape machine, mixer input or channel insert.
Mode: Fast/Presets/Manual
The OCL-2 uses a unique sidechain circuit, which linearizes the optical gain
element (reducing distortion) and achieves much faster attack and release times
than normally encountered with optical compressors. For maximum versatility,
there are three distinctly different modes of operation.
Fast
In the FAST mode, the optical cell operates with very fast attack and release
times, which are peak-averaged by the rapid operation of the cell. This mode is
remarkably free of pumping artifacts even at high compression levels. It's the
ideal choice for tracking or tight program compression. Use it whenever you
don't want to hear the OCL-2 working.
Presets
The PRESETS mode consists of six attack/release settings which are ideal for
program compression. These presets are identical to those found on the classic
Fairchild 670 Limiter. The first four presets offer a selection of fixed attack and
release times, with the release times indicated on the dial markings. Presets 5 and
6 are program-dependent release times, where there is initially a quick release,

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followed by a longer decay time to zero gain reduction. Think of these settings as
a 'gated' release time, where the compressor operates more rapidly at the average
program level, but takes much longer to return back to zero gain reduction. In
other words, the compressor does not immediately 'suck back to zero' when there
is a brief pause in the program, e.g. between words in a vocal track.
Manual
The MANUAL mode offers total control over the attack and release times. The
range of the attack and release controls is 1ms to 40ms and 0.1s to 2s
respectively. Manual control is particularly useful for creative compression
effects or for processing bass guitar. Quite often, a greater level of compression
can be applied to program material if a very long attack time and a short release
time are used. In this instance, the compressor is responding to the average
program level, does not 'over-compress' on short peaks, and recovers quickly. In
other words, it doesn't 'pump' as much!
Sidechain Inserts
On the rear panel are two TRS 1/4" jacks (one for each channel) for inserting an
outboard EQ into the sidechain detector circuit. This is useful for
frequency-dependent compression or de-essing. The Tip is Send, and Ring is
Return.
Link/Split
When this switch is set to SPLIT, the two channels of the OCL-2 operate
independently. In LINK, the sidechain circuits for the two channels are coupled
for stereo operation. The threshold and dynamics processing (fast, preset and
manual modes) are controlled entirely by Channel 1. The ratio and output
controls for the two channels should be set to the same values. NOTE: Although
the optical elements for the two channels are matched, as they age some shift in
the stereo image may occur at high compression and ratio settings. To bring the
channels back into balance, simply adjust one of the ratio controls to center the
image in the stereo field.
Although linking the two channels will keep the stereo image centered, it may
tend to collapse the stereo spread a bit too much on some program material. In
this case, run the two channels of the OCL-2 split, and set all the controls for
both channels to the same values. Listen carefully to verify that the degree of
image shift that occurs is acceptable.
In/Bypass
These are 'hard' bypass switches for comparing the processed sound directly with
the original source. IN connects the output of the OCL-2 tube line amp directly to
the output connectors. BYPASS connects the input source directly to the output.
Other Issues
Internal Adjustments
There are two adjustments to the OCL-2 that are only accessible by removing the
top cover:
· Calibration of the meter when measuring gain reduction
· Stereo balance of the optical elements
These adjustments are required only if one of the optical elements are replaced, or
if they drift out of calibration with age. Since these adjustments must be made
with the ac power on, and potentially lethal voltages are present inside the
chassis, we recommend that they be made only by qualified service personnel

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who are familiar with working around high voltage tube circuitry.
For your safety, we strongly recommend that you contact us for servicing. On
request, detailed instructions for performing these procedures will be provided to
qualified service personnel.
Options
There OCL-2 is available with transformer-balanced inputs and/or outputs using
high-quality Jensen transformers. However, we do not recommend this unless
absolutely necessary, since the transformers will color the sound. If at all
possible, try to make it work without them. See the section entitled 'Preventing
Ground Loop Hum' for more information.
Replacing the Tubes
All vacuum tubes have a limited life due to reduced electron emission from the
oxide coating on the cathode and/or a buildup of impurity gases is the bulb. The
life of the preamp tubes in the OCL-2 is estimated to be several years. If you
notice the sound quality deteriorating - higher distortion, muddiness, or
microphonic behavior - it's time to change the tubes. We recommend changing all
the tubes at once. If you are uncomfortable with replacing the tubes yourself,
please have it done by qualified service personnel. Replacement tubes are
available directly from us.
1. Unplug the OCL-2 and wait at least 30 minutes for the high voltage in the unit
to discharge and for the tubes to cool to room temperature.
2. Remove the top cover by removing the nine #6-32 Phillips-head screws.
DO NOT remove the bottom cover.
3. Note the position of the four tubes (V1-V4) in the porcelain sockets.
· The input tubes are 6072A/12AY7 (V1 and V3)
· The output tubes are 6922/6DJ8 (V2 and V4)
4. Remove each tube and replace with the same type removed from the each
socket. Do not mix up the tube positions.
5. Reinstall the top cover and screws.
There are a large variety of 6072As available. Each type has slightly different
internal structure and design. Consequently, each type has its own sonic
signature. Sometimes the differences are subtle - sometime not. You are
encouraged to sample the different varieties and pick the one that sounds the best
to you.
The 6922 is a rugged, military style 6DJ8. Since it is used as a high current
output driver, we recommend replacing it with the same type and rating. The
6922 used in this fashion has much less influence on the sound of the OCL-2
than the 6072A input tube.
OCL-2 Specifications
Circuit Type: optical input attenuator and class A vacuum tube
gain stage with transformerless output

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Input Sensitivity+4dBu
Input Impedance:10k
Freq. Response:-1.0dB 8Hz and 145kHz with 10K output load
-1.0dB 20Hz and 115kHz with 600 output load
Noise: less than -78dB below +4dBu output level
with Output control at 0dB
less than -75dB below +4dBu output level
with Output control at +20dB
Distortion: less than 0.05% THD+N, 20Hz to 10kHz,
measured with +4 dBu input, +10dBu output, 600 load
Output:+35dBu into 10k load
+24dBu into 600 load
Max. Gain Reduction:27dB
Threshold: off to -20dB
Ratio:1.5:1 to 15:1
Output:off to +20dB
Modes: fast (peak-averaged), preset or manual operation
Presets: 1ms/0.1s, 1ms/0.3s, 2ms/1.0s, 4ms/2s,
2ms/1 to 4s and 1ms/0.5 to 20s (program dependent)
Manual:attack time varaible from 1.0ms to 40ms
release time varaible from 0.1s to 2s
Meter: selection of input level, gain reduction, or output level
input and output levels are referenced to +4dBu = 0VU
In/Bypass:hard bypass of input signal to output connector
Link/Split:links channel 1 and channel 2 for stereo operation
Polarity:input and output XLR connectors are pin 2 hot
Vacuum Tubes: (2) 6072A, (2) 6922
Power: 120Vac, 30W (240Vac optional)
Power Supplies:+300Vdc, +12.6Vdc and ±15Vdc, fully regulated
with soft-start warm-up and output muting
Dimensions:2U enclosure, 19" x 3.5" x 12.5" (48.2 x 8.8 x 31.8 cm)
Weight:14lbs (6.4kg)
Limited Warranty
Pendulum Audio, Inc. warrants to the first purchaser of a new Pendulum OCL-2
Vacuum Tube Compressor/Limiter that the unit is free of manufacturing defects
in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of
purchase. Pendulum Audio, Inc.'s sole obligation under this warranty shall be to
provide, without charge, parts and labor necessary to remedy defects, if any,
which appear within one (1) year from the date of purchase. All warranties
expressed or implied made by Pendulum Audio, Inc., including warranties of
merchantability and fitness, are limited to the period of this warranty. Pendulum
Audio, Inc. is not responsible for indirect, incidental or consequential damages
arising from the use or failure of this product, including injury to persons or
property.
This warranty does not cover damage due to: misuse, abuse, modification,
accident or negligence. The warranty does not apply if the unit is repaired or
altered by persons unauthorized by Pendulum Audio, Inc. in such a manner as to
injure, in Pendulum's sole judgment, the performance, stability or reliability of the
unit. The warranty does not apply if the unit is connected, installed or used
otherwise than in accordance with the instructions furnished by Pendulum
Audio, Inc. There is no warranty on vacuum tubes.
If the equipment requires warranty repair, return authorization must be obtained

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from Pendulum Audio, Inc. prior to shipment. Equipment should not be shipped
to Pendulum Audio, Inc. until return authorization and the proper shipping
address is obtained from us. The equipment (with all its components parts and
connecting cables) must be suitably packaged, including a note with the owner's
name, address, telephone number and a description of the reason for return. The
owner pays two-way shipping (we recommend UPS), and we suggest that the
shipment be insured for its full value.
This limited warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and
no representative or person is authorized to represent or assume for us any
liability in connection with the sale of our products than set forth herein. This
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state.
Pendulum Audio, Inc. · P.O. Box 339, Gillette, NJ 07933 · [phone] ·
www.pendulumaudio.com