Behringer T1952 User Manual

Page 7

TUBE COMPOSER T1952

expander/gate section can be used as an independent unit to eradicate noise offering almost limitless

possibilities within this application.
IGC (Interactive Gain Control) peak limiter
A further remarkable feature of the BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER is the IGC (Interactive Gain Control)

limiter, an intelligent combination of a clipper and a program limiter. Above an adjustable threshold the peak

limiter begins to function and restricts signal peaks radically (clipper). If, however, the threshold of the limiter

was surpassed for more than a few milliseconds, the IGC circuit automatically kicks in and reduces the level

of the overall output signal so that no audible distortion occurs (program limiter). After the level falls below the

threshold, the signal returns to the original value after a period of about 1 second. This IGC circuit proves to be

extremely valuable as much for live work (loudspeaker protection) as for digital situations, where any extreme

signal peaks would exceed the maximum headroom and therefore would cause severe problems.
The TUBE COMPOSER uses 12AX7 / ECC83 tubes. These triodes are capable of handling a large dynamic

range with little microphony. Add to this their relative ruggedness and above average life span and you can see

why its one of the most popular and reliable pre-amp tubes on the market. These features also ensure you

their availability for many years to come.
Balanced inputs and outputs
As standard, the BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER is installed with electronically servo-balanced inputs and

outputs. The new circuit design features automatic hum and noise reduction for balanced signals and thus

allows for trouble-free operation, even at high operating levels. Externally induced mains hum etc. will be

effectively suppressed. The automatic servo-function recognizes the presence of unbalanced connectors and

adjusts the nominal level internally to avoid level differences between the input and output signals

(correction 6 dB).
Transformer-balanced outputs (optional)
In contrast to electronic balancing, the use of transformer-balanced outputs offers the advantage of galvanic

separation between units. Electrical potential differences and ground loops in audio installations do not there-

fore impair the performance of the units. The transformer-balanced outputs, commonly used in radio and TV

engineering, can also be fitted retrospectively upon request. The BEHRINGER transformer OT-1 is designed to

the highest exacting standards and is available as an accessory.

1.2 Before you get started

Your BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging was designed to

protect the unit from rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging

and its contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred during transit.

If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to us, but notify your dealer and the shipping

company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be granted.

Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.

The BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER fits into two standard 19" rack units of space (3 1/2" / 89.5 mm). Please

allow at least an additional 4" depth for the connectors on the back panel.

Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling and please do not place the

TUBE COMPOSER on high temperature devices such as power amplifiers etc. to avoid over-

heating.

The mains connection of the TUBE COMPOSER is made by using the supplied mains cable. It meets all of the

international safety certification requirements. Please make sure that all units have a proper ground

connection.

Before you connect your TUBE COMPOSER to the mains, please make sure that your local

voltage matches the voltage required by the unit!

As a standard the audio inputs and outputs on the BEHRINGER TUBE COMPOSER are fully balanced. If

possible, connect the unit to other devices in a balanced configuration to allow for maximum interference

immunity. The automatic servo function detects unbalanced connections and compensates the level difference

automatically (6 dB correction).

1. INTRODUCTION