BBE MaxCom Dual Channel Compressor Limiter Gate

No longer available at zZounds
Produce mixes with clean, clear punch with this stereo compressor/expander/limiter/gate unit, complete with onboard BBE Sonic Maximizer processing.

The BBE MaxCom is a highly sophisticated dual-channel compressor and limiter with gate; housed in a compact and easy-to-use package. It provides a live or recorded mix with all the clean, clear punch that only a truly professional dynamics controller can. However, the MaxCom is much more than a high-quality, superbly engineered compressor/limiter.

The MaxCom is the first signal processor of its kind to feature an on-board BBE Sonic Maximizer. The BBE High Definition Sound process employed by the Sonic Maximizer is world-renown among music and sound professionals for remarkable improvements in total sound quality, bringing crystalline clarity and air to the source material as well as revealing rich harmonic subtleties. The MaxCom employs BBE's High Definition Sound technology, in the very same 4th generation BBE Professional chipset which powers the 482i and 882i Sonic Maximizers.

The "over-engineering" in the MaxCom ensures that both its compression and gating provide versatility and excellent sonic performance in situations where other compressor/gates often produce undesirable processing artifacts. At the heart of the MaxCom is a THAT Corporation VCA known throughout the industry as the premier dynamics-processing VCA.

This single-rack-space dynamics processor includes two independent full-featured compressor/limiters, each channel having independent controls for threshold, compression ratio, attack time and release time. Additionally, the MaxCom's "linking" function allows read more for phase-coherent tracking of stereo signals and adjustment from the Channel One controls. Comprehensive metering is achieved via dual bar-graph meters on each channel that indicate input level and gain reduction.

MaxCom's intuitive design makes it easy to operate. Its rigorous engineering and robust construction assure clean, distortion-free audio and a predictable, repeatable range of control from undetectable to clearly identifiable. Whether the goal is to pull a "lost" instrument up in the mix, control vocal levels or dial in hard-limited speaker protection, the MaxCom can accomplish the task with ease, reliability and sonic excellence. By offering a superb, full-featured compressor/limiter with an integrated BBE Sonic Maximizer system, the MaxCom has no equal at any price.

Features
BBE Sonic Maximizer adds clarity and definition

"Auto" mode for easy setup

Dual bar-graph meters for input level and gain reduction

Stereo link for phase-coherent stereo compression

Dynamically controlled, program-adaptive gate for noiseless and seamless operation

Full-function 4th generation BBE Sonic Maximizer

THAT Corp. VCA

2-channel compressor/expander unit with gate function

Peak limiter to protect from clipping

Inputs and outputs via balanced XLR or unbalanced 1/4 in. jacks

Key in and out via 1/4 in. TRS

2 year warranty
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Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz

T.H.D: less than 0.05%

S/N ratio: more than 94dB

Threshold: -40dBu to +20dBu

Compression ratio: 1:1-11:1

Attack time: 0.1-200 msec

Gate threshold: off to +10dBu

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 714-897-6766

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (13 ratings)
Submitted February 3, 2012 by Steven B in Auburn, NY

"MaxCom a GREAT 2-in1 product!"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Before you go buying a compressor, you have to remember that the quality of the sound (noise, hum, hiss) that goes into a compressor will ultimately determine the quality that comes out. If the signal going in is noisey, the signal coming out will be noisey, and likely more so. I have read many reviews about this compressor adding noise and being unusable, but unless they got a dud (unlikely in my experence), I think these people do not understand what a compressor does and how it works. I also question their ability to properly hook one up. My opinion is that this piece of gear is created with the intended purpose is as a final compression just before going out to the poweramp and main speakers. BBE created the Sonic Maximaizer with this application in mind and the inclusion of this feature leads me to believe that this compressor is meant for that. As a main stereo compressor/limiter, this piece of gear works flawlessly. Make sure you use properly made BALANCED cables in and out and you will have nice transparent sound. I only use it for my mains, but given its performance, I wouldnt doubt that it has great potential as part of a bass or guitar rig, and even for keys. I wouldn't hesitate to try it there, and most who know what their doing agree in other reviews. For recording, its obviously not a "super-high-end" compressor, but I can't see why (again, if used properly and hooked up correctly) it wouldnt work out for home studio use.

Sound read more
The sound is very transparent and clear. The compression is very musical, taking little away from dynamics and creating a clean, blanced sound. Adding the Sonic Maximizer feature adds even more clarity and punch in live situations.

Features
This compressor is feature packed, including a Gate, Balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs, Sonic Maximizer/ low Contour, side chain inserts, auto Attack/Realease offers more features and flexibility than most standard compressors. Considering BBE's Sonic Maximizer alone costs upwards of $200, your getting a steral with this product.

Ease of Use
The auto features and clearly written manual make for an easy to use and relatively painless experience. Just do your research and experiementing before you try it live, so you know what you're getting into.

Quality
I will admit that the pots and knobs seem a little cheep, but for $200 I wasnt expecting state of the art. It mounts well in a rack and should hold up to moderate abuse. I take care of my stuff, so should you.

Value
I have often desired a Sonic Maximizer unit for my live sound rig, and when I was in the market for a compressor, seeing this unit made it a no brainer. 1 Rack space, two great effects, 1 happy costumer. As I mentioned before, with the inclusion of the Sonic Maximizer, this unit is a steal. Just make sure you know what your doing.

Manufacturer Support
I haven't needed them yet, but I hear good things. (Both out of the unit, and about the service.)

The Wow Factor
This unit has taken my live sound to a new level, clearer, controlled, and more even tone throughout made this unit one of my new favorites.

Musical Background:
Recording Engineer, Live Sound Engineer, Bass Player

Musical Style:
Contemporary Christian
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