Behringer M IC 2200 - Manual (Page 11)

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ULTRAGAIN PRO MIC2200
1.2.4 The best of both worlds
Despite many efforts neither manufacturers nor developers have succeeded so far in simulating these positive
properties of the tube by means of other devices. Additionally, the natural capabilities of the tube to act as a
soft limiter can only be mimicked with highly sophisticated circuitry. Today’s studio technology requirements
are therefore met by a combination of both high-grade semiconductor and tube technologies. In this context,
tubes do not serve any longer their original purpose as amplifiers, but are used for the detailed shaping of the
sound.
1.2.5 Studio applications
In a recording studio tubes have not the same task as they have in an overdriven guitar amp, where the
considerably higher saturation of the tube(s) leads to a full and often deliberate modification of the input signal
(in many cases combined with a heavy increase in noise floor levels). In the studio more subtle effects are
needed. Here, tube circuits add life to the signal’s tonal character and increase its power to make itself heard.
Often, tubes also increase the signal’s perceived loudness (in relation to the unprocessed signal), i.e. the
perceived loudness goes up although the volume level remains the same. This is because the dynamic range
of the applied audio signal is limited by the tube circuit, while the amplitude of the signal with the lowest
loudness is raised. Thus, increasing tube saturation produces a slight compression effect over the entire
dynamic range.
A similar effect can be perceived when analog tape is saturated. This saturation effect also compresses the
recorded audio material and produces additional harmonics.
2. THE DESIGN CONCEPT
2.1 High quality components and design
The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit design and employs the
best choice of components. The operational amplifiers NJM4580 which are used in the ULTRAGAIN PRO, are
exceptional. They boast extreme linearity and very low distortion characteristics. To complement this design
the choice of components includes high tolerance resistors and capacitors, detent potentiometers and several
other stringently selected elements.
For the first time, the ULTRAGAIN PRO MIC2200 uses SMD technology (Surface Mounted Device). These
sub-miniature components known from aerospace technology allow for an extreme packing density, plus the
unit’s reliability could be improved. Additionally, the unit is manufactured in compliance with a ISO9000
certified management system.
2.2 Inputs and outputs
2.2.1 Balanced inputs and outputs
As standard, the BEHRINGER ULTRAGAIN PRO 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).
3. INSTALLATION
Your BEHRINGER ULTRAGAIN PRO 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 in transit.
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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.
2. THE DESIGN CONCEPT