Home / Cranborne Audio - Brick Lane MC4 4-Channel Modal PWM Dynamics Processor
Product Overview
Digital Precision Meets Soulful Analog
The Brick Lane MC4 isn't just a compressor; it is a sonic transformation engine. While the signal path is 100% analog, every parameter is digitally controlled, allowing for total DAW recall and remote automation via USB or Ethernet. At its core is the Modal PWM architecture, which modulates the analog gain stage at a circuit level to mimic the non-linear response and musical "glue" of classic vintage hardware without the noise or maintenance of aging components.
Product Description
Six Distinct Compression Personalities:
The MC4 features six "Modes" that fundamentally change the detector behavior, ratio, and timing constants:
Velvet: Smooth, vintage Vari-Mu style with tube-like harmonic warmth.
Float: Transparent, Opto-inspired dynamics with gentle, wavelike ballistics.
Smash: Aggressive FET-style compression for explosive punch and impact.
Tame: Surgical, ultra-fast transient management for precise control.
Glue: Classic VCA-style "bus" compression to unify submixes and masters.
Unlike static saturation circuits, the Stress control dynamically introduces even-order harmonics based on the selected mode. This creates a program-dependent saturation that evolves with your signal, providing anything from subtle "expensive-sounding" sheen to gritty, harmonically rich character.
ENIGMA Deep Customization:
For engineers who want to go beyond standard controls, the ENIGMA section unlocks deep parameters usually hidden in analog gear. You can adjust the compression knee weighting, detector behavior, and high-frequency emphasis, allowing you to tailor the response for everything from percussive drums to delicate acoustic vocals.
Unrivaled Routing & Integration:
Flexible Configurations: Easily switch between 4 x Mono, 2 x Stereo, Mid-Side, or Dual-Band (splitting audio into low/high bands for targeted processing).
Series Mode: Route channels in sequence for multi-stage dynamics (e.g., a fast limiter into a slow glue compressor).
Analogue Lookahead: Provides a predictive voltage detection mechanism for zero-latency transient anticipation—exclusive to Polish mode and the De-Esser.
Hardware Inserts: Each channel features a TRS insert point to integrate your other favorite analog gear directly into the chain.
Key Features
4-Channel PWM Architecture: Pure analog signal path with digital recall and automation.
6 Modal Compression Styles: Covers the entire spectrum of legendary dynamics.
Full DAW Integration: Control and recall all settings via VST/AU/AAX plugin over USB/Ethernet.
Mid-Side & Dual-Band Processing: Advanced mastering and mixing tools built-in.
Analogue Lookahead & Gating: Advanced transient anticipation for surgical limiting.
Stress Control: Mode-dependent harmonic saturation for creative coloration.
5" Color TFT Display: High-resolution feedback with LED-ringed encoders.
Enigma Advanced Control: Fine-tune knee, weighting, and detector behavior.
