Optical Compressors...What's the deal??

[R.G.]

Back at the original question: "what's the deal with optical compressors?"

I get questions about compressors all the time asking "is this an optical compressor?" with the implication that "optical" equals "good" somehow.

I *think* this is because some hoopla web pages extol the virtues of optical compressors as being the Only Good Way to build one. I'm guessing that this comes from the reputation of the LA series and perhaps some others where a photo conductor (LDR) was used, and worked well. Thing is, simply being optical is no guarantee of good, low distortion, low noise, or anything else. Optical level modulators are not necessarily better. They *may* be if everything else is done right, but it's not a guarantee. Something like saying "virgin refined chrome plating on the wheels !!" is not a guarantee of quality in an automobile.

It's not widely recognized but photoconductors *do* have distortion mechanisms.

So, having discharged the bile from my technical spleen, carry on with the discussion. 

[Mark Hammer]

The "quality" of any sidechain-governed circuit is going to be a function of the sidechain, and the control element that the sidechain governs.  There are plenty of legendary and exceptional FET-based limiters and compressors that go the distance in terms of the sidechain design such that the worst characteristics of the control element never reveal themselves.  Likewise, there are optical devices (in principle, a "better" control element) harnessed to poorly implemented sidechains that don't sound nearly as good as they might.

Again, on the "optical" theme, there are many ways for photons to land on photocells.  There can be LEDs involved, there can be incandescent bulbs, and there can be "electroluminescent" panels.  The photocells themselves can have different and unique properties, deliberately intended or selected for such applications.  One of the reasons why Craig Anderton used to push the Clairex CLM6000 so much was because it had suitable resistance variation, but more importantly, response-time properties that were nicely suited to the intended projects.

[buildafriend]

Okay,

I need to build a fuzz into an optical pedal for a friend. Is there an optical compressor pedal/schematic that is highly recommended by the DIYstompbox community? If yes, why?

If there is a high interest in my combo pedal design I will make PCB's available.

What is your dream combination?

[artifus]

the easiest and cheapest option available that i like and can build myself. that's why i'm on a d i y stompbox forum.

marketing is that way ->

try facebook or the gear page maybe. good luck in your endeavour. may you reap all you deserve.

*thirty minutes later* hello builda - wont you be my friend?