User manual BEHRINGER T1952

[. . . ] T1952 Users Manual Version 1. 1 October 2001 TUBE COMPOSER® www. behringer. com ENGLISH TUBE COMPOSER T1952 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside; refer servicing to qualified personnel. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosurevoltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock. This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature. [. . . ] In mastering and multitrack recording, as well as in duplication, one should always take care to utilize the full dynamic range of the tape recorder, DAT recorder etc. Principally, it is possible to control the recording level by riding faders, which means with low level signals, the gain is increased, whereas the amplitude of high level signals is reduced. It is obvious that this method is insufficient because, especially in live recordings, the expected signal levels cannot be anticipated correctly. Especially with multitrack recordings, which are run under hectic circumstances, the signal level of all channels cannot be monitored and controlled at the same time. Generally, with manual control, it is not possible to achieve satisfying recording results. An automatic gain control system achieves better and more constant results. Use the TUBE COMPOSER by starting with the initial settings, and use its dynamic control functions in order to be able to drive an analog, as well as a digital recording, up to the limit of its maximum dynamic range while remaining noise- and distortionfree. 3. APPLICATIONS 17 TUBE COMPOSER T1952 3. 1. 3 The TUBE COMPOSER in digital recording and sampling In an analog recording, too low recording levels lead to an increased noise level, whereas too high levels will cause a compressed and squashed sound. In extreme cases, it will cause distortion due to tape saturation. In contrast to analog, side effects in the digital field always become extremely audible: with decreasing level, a tape previously recorded with insufficient level loses resolution: the recording sounds hard and loses atmosphere. With excessive level, the recording sounds harsh and heavily distorted. In order to avoid these effects, the peak limiter section of the TUBE COMPOSER should be placed before for example a sampler. As a result of this process, a digital recording or a sampling event can be optimally set in level without any problem. 3. 1. 4 Noise reduction on effects paths The effects rack is one of the main overlooked sources of noise in a PA system or recording facility. The prices of reverb and delay units and harmonizers have fallen drastically over the last number of years, which have made these units a common feature in small studios and home recording installations. However, multiple effects units considerably increase the overall noise level, so that the pleasure in acquiring a new sound effect is short lived. It will prove useful to use the BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER as the last component in the chain of effects units and use the noise reduction function of the expander/gate section. We recommend that you use a slow release time in order to maintain the natural reverb. 3. 2 The TUBE COMPOSER in live applications 3. 2. 1 Reducing leakage in stage mics The TUBE COMPOSER has many uses in live-work, on stage and in multi-miking situations: a well set up expander/gate can effectively suppress background noise, compressor type pumping noise and microphone leakage etc. without producing any undesirable side effects. Expander/gates are commonly used for processing vocals. When specifically used with a compressor, the distance and position of the mic in relation to the singer is very critical: the further the distance, the more sensitive the mic is to background noise. Use the expander/gate section in the slow release mode to inaudibly eliminate background noise, that occurs in pauses between singing. [. . . ] This also applies to defects caused by normal wear and tear, in particular, of faders, potentiometers, keys/buttons and similar parts. Damages/defects caused by the following conditions are not covered by this warranty: s misuse, neglect or failure to operate the unit in compliance with the instructions given in BEHRINGER user or service manuals. s connection or operation of the unit in any way that does not comply with the technical or safety regulations applicable in the country where the product is used. s damages/defects caused by force majeure or any other condition that is beyond the control of BEHRINGER. [. . . ]