What does a BBE sonic maximizer do? (please don't get too technical)?

Question

Hello, this question is for the musicians and sound men out there. Please tell me what in the hec it is that a BBE sonic maximizer actually does. I have been a musician for many years and I have always seen them in any rack sound system that is worth anything. I also am very aware that when I sing through a PA system that has a BBE sonic maximizer in the system, my voice seems to sound much better. I really like what they do, whatever it is. Can anyone out there tell me exactly what it is that a BBE sonic maximizer does without getting too technical so I'll undertand. I am not a sound man but I have basic knowledge of PA equip. Just enough to know that you want one of these as a part of any vocal PA system. What do they do exactly? Or, how is it that they make your vocals sound better? Why doesnt the box or the unit say what it does. I have sang through many many of them and it is high time I learned what they do.
Thank you,
Perry in Florida

Are you referring to the Simpson's episode where INSYNC rely's on a machine called "studio magic"? I dont think they mentioned a BBE sonic maximizer did they? Is the Sonic Maximizer what they were referring to when they said "Studio magic machine"? If so, how do you know this?

Answer 1

Hi Perry in Florida,

I cannot help with the specifics of how it actually works, but for the record, it has already entered popular folklore in and episode of The Simpsons:

http://www.google.com.au/search?hl=en&q=%22Studio+Magic%22+party+posse+%22thank+you+NASA%22&btnG=Search&meta=

..that was a really funny episode and though it referred to a boy band with NO TALENT, I'm sure it is of benefit to gifted vocalists as well.