Manley Variable Mu Stereo Limiter Compressor – Mastering Version

An Industry-standard Mastering Tool

The Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version is the perfect addition to any professional mastering facility. In fact, having been deployed on countless hit records since its introduction, it’s quickly become an industry-standard mastering tool. Unlike the standard version of this 2-channel, all-tube, transformer-coupled limiter/compressor, which uses smooth-moving pots, Manley specified precision rotary switches with detented steps for the Variable Mu Mastering Version to facilitate precise left/right channel matching and settings recall. Anyone who has heard the classic Fairchild 670 limiter in action has an inkling of the Variable Mu’s capabilities, but the sound is even sweeter with the Variable Mu. A modern all-American legend, the Variable Mu Mastering Version fortifies your mixes with glue and punch, crystallizing them into a professional, radio-ready product that blasts right out of the speakers.

Dual-channel Tube Limiter

The Variable Mu Mastering Version’s adjustable threshold, attack, and release settings are ideal for tracking and mixing, as well as mastering; while its highpass sidechain gives you added flexibility. Although optimized for mastering, the Manley Variable Mu Mastering version is a high-end, esoteric piece of kit that delivers miraculous results on individual tracks and stems. It’s also incredibly versatile and rock-solid reliable for daily use. Add one to your studio rack, and hear what you’ve been missing!

A modern all-American legend

The Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version is a highly regarded piece of audio equipment that serves as a dual-channel tube limiter/compressor. With its versatile capabilities and precision controls, it has earned its place as an industry-standard mastering tool used in professional mastering facilities. It has been featured on numerous hit records and has gained popularity due to its exceptional sound quality and performance.

Key features of the Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version include:

Precision Rotary Switches

The Mastering Version is equipped with precision rotary switches with detented steps, which allow for precise channel matching and easy settings recall. This enhances the ability to achieve consistent results and maintain desired configurations.

High-Quality Components

The equipment utilizes high-quality components, including Manley’s input and output transformers with pure nickel laminations, ensuring exceptional audio quality and signal integrity.

Tube-Based Design

The Variable Mu employs an all-tube circuitry design with vacuum tubes like the 5751, 7044, and 12AL5. This tube-based architecture contributes to its distinctive sound character and performance.

Variable Gain Control

The Variable Mu offers true variable gain, allowing for fine-tuned level control without introducing unwanted artifacts. The gain control is achieved through the operation of the 5670 dual triode tubes, which smoothly adjust their gain according to tube-rectified sidechain control voltages.

Compress and Limit Modes

The equipment offers both Compress and Limit modes, allowing for different compression ratios. The Compress mode features a soft-knee 1.5:1 ratio, while the Limit mode provides various ratios, including a sharper knee mode starting at 4:1 and moving to a more dramatic 20:1 ratio when limiting over 12dB.

Flexible Applications

While optimized for mastering, the Variable Mu Mastering Version can also be effectively used on individual tracks, stems, and stereo buses. Its ganged input control and separate threshold, attack, release, and output controls provide flexibility for various audio processing scenarios.

Stereo Link Mode

The equipment excels in stereo applications, especially in stereo buses and mastering final mixes. Its Stereo Link mode enhances its performance by synchronizing the settings of both channels, ensuring balanced and coherent stereo processing.

Solid Construction

The Variable Mu is built to last, with high-quality construction and components. It features a robust design and is handcrafted in Chino, CA.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Manley Variable Mu Mastering Version stands as a revered choice for professional audio engineers and mastering studios seeking a high-quality, tube-based limiter/compressor. Its combination of precision controls, tube-based design, and versatile applications makes it a valuable tool for achieving professional-grade audio results.

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