Alto Cle 2.0 Compresser/Limiter/Gate Silver

From Google AI:

The Alto CLE2.0 is a budget-friendly, 2-channel rack-mountable dynamic processor that combines a compressor, expander/gate, and peak limiter into one unit. It is primarily used in live sound, rehearsal spaces, and home studios to tame audio levels and control background noise.

Key Features & Capabilities

• Compressor Section: Features an Interactive Knee Adaptation (IKA) that smoothly transitions between soft-knee and hard-knee compression. It includes a switchable AUTO function that dynamically adjusts attack and release times based on the incoming audio signal.
• Expander/Gate: Allows you to set a threshold where signals falling below it are attenuated, effectively acting as a noise gate to mute hum, buzz, and bleed between takes.
• Peak Limiter: Provides an independent safety ceiling to prevent sudden, loud volume spikes that could clip your mixer or interface.
• Stereo Coupling: Allows you to link both channels so that Channel 1 acts as the master—perfect for gluing together stereo mixes or drum overheads.
• Sidechain Access: Features built-in sidechain filtering and inputs so you can trigger the compressor/gate using an external signal or filter out low frequencies to stop the compressor from "pumping".

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Threshold Ranges: -40dBu to +20dBu (Compressor)
• Expansion Ratio: 1:1.2 to 1:8
• Connectivity: Balanced XLR and 1/4-inch TRS connections

Common Use Cases

• Live Sound: Great for controlling microphone dynamics and keeping vocal levels consistent during live gigs.
• Drums & Guitars: Often used to shape transients, tighten up drum kits, and provide gentle, distortion-free leveling on rhythm tracks.
• Budget Tracking: Serves as a solid "bread and butter" utility to clean up signals before they hit your DAW.