Everyone here seems to swear by the Inovonics 222 for their AM broadcasting and improving sound and signal.
Has anyone used any other compressor with similar positives? Looking for more cost effective alternatives, if they exist.
An amazing computer application writer made an application named Stereo Tool which is an astounding audio processor software that I believe could not be distinquished from an Inovonics 222.
It comes as a Winamp plugin or a stand-alone version provides total processing control over stereophonic audio, AM or FM.
For FM it is able to provide the pre-emphasis characteristics.
There is a free demo version which has certain limitations, and the licensed version is something around $30.
The author is Hans van Zutphen.
No. The SteroTool does not have asymmetrical processing that the Inovonics 222 has.
THIS is a good substitute, but you have to build it. It can be linked for two channel (stereo) operation, and can be constructed for a fraction of the cost to an Inovonics 222.
"Has anyone used any other compressor with similar positives? Looking for more cost effective alternatives, if they exist."
A good start is the Behringer 9024 multi-band processor. Though it does not have asymmetrical processing, it is comparable to the popular Optimod 8100, and it is a lot less expensive but has a few more features than the Optimod 8100.
For more professional computer based processing, check THIS site out.
And MORE.
RFB
StereoTool is a great equalizer/compresser with a few other functions thrown in. And it will make your signal sound much better. It does take a lot of processing power, however, so you want to use a relatively recent computer if you're using it.
I use VSTHost, which is effectively a shell into which you can plug DLL's, and you can choose relatively simple compressors, mono converters etc. which do not use much processing power up to large scale, CPU sucking processes.
These software solutions do not have asymmetric processing. The Inovonics 222 is a good solution for that - you would also need a transmitter that is capable of greater than 100% modulation - I've used the 222 and a Rangemaster with great results. I'm just wondering why you're looking for another solution. The 222 IS expensive (you'll probably pay $300-500 used on e-bay, if you can find one) but you can pay a lot more.
Are there any other "asymmetrical processing" units instead of the Inovonics as a purchasable ready-made unit?
This is for AM use, so the Inovonics is the ruler and always recommended. The price on the units is rather high though.
The Optimod 8100 looks fine but seems intended for FM stereo use.
Again, I suspect that anything you find will be more than a used 222. The Optimod and other Orban devices are pricier still (the ones I've seen on e-bay go for around $1000+).
If price is your barrier, I'd just optimize the other factors in dealing with range - ground including radials, minimizing obstructions, sound processing such as compression, etc. Your range improvement with asymmetrical processing will not be all that great with Part 15 signal levels, but I found that it made a significant difference in the listenability of the signal within my desired coverage area (better sound, less perceived noise).
Although I doubt I will ever make it a permanent part of my chain, I have several times found myself experimenting with the "Breakaway Broadcast Processor" as a capable alternative to the 222. It's a uncomplicated install, simple to put in operation, and the only software I know of which provides the desired 125% peak for a Rangemaster or Procaster to take advantage of.
The demo (free) is full featured and never expires, but it throws a commercial in every half hour. To get rid of the commercials you have to purchase it for $199..
But personally, there's two reasons why I doubt I'll ever settle on using it; although I have not (as of yet) had any problems using it with my existing P4 2.4ghz computer, it's minimum system requirements actually requires 3.4ghz or more. And even if I did have a newer computer, I would rather put the $200 purchase price of the software towards a used hardware solution, as it's not to uncommon to find a 222 for not much more than that.
The hardware route just strikes me as being the better way to go.
Still, if you don't mind their commercials, their unlimited free version does do the job nicely and it's simple to use.
You might might want to give it a try: http://www.claessonedwards.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=136
Earlier we mentioned the Stereo Tool by Hans Van Zutphen, and now Paul Thurst, a professional radio engineer and author of the Engineering Radio Blogsite, has posted a major feature dated Feb. 7, 2013 all about the Stereo Tool as compared to hardware processors, including an in-depth conversation with Mr. Van Zutphen.
As a bonus, the blog which comes after that provides a large collection of pin-out data for all the many connectors in the world.
http://www.engineeringradio.us/blog/
Stereo Tool does have asymmetrical processing. In fact it is adjustable to one's liking.
Yes, the Stereo Tool is very many things ijn one, and offers modulation and control choices for AM, FM, and just plain recording or processing. It is a proud inhabitant of my desk top.
I know one Part 15 operator who uses the 222 for final processing before the transmitter. Before the 222 this operator uses DSP9024 processor which can be had used for less the $100. His station sounds great.