Studio Technologies 220 2008 - Manual (Page 7)

Model 220 User Guide Issue 4, October 2008
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
the main output to be used as a third talk-
back output. In this configuration the unit
can be even more powerful when used in
corporate or theatrical events, for example
serving as a master console for a produc-
tion director.
Dynamic Range Control
A studio-quality compressor circuit is
provided to control the dynamic range
of the signal coming from the microphone
preamplifier. Far from a simple “clipper,”
the circuit utilizes a sophisticated laser-
trimmed voltage-controlled-amplifier (VCA)
integrated circuit for quiet, low-distortion
level control. The signal from the compres-
sor is always used by the talkback out-
puts. In addition, the audio source for the
main output can be selected to be either
the output of the microphone preampli-
fier or the output of the compressor. While
possibly not appropriate for major on-air
situations, having dynamic range control
of the main output can offer increased
performance for many applications. These
could include stadium announcement
positions, sports events using nonprofes-
sional on-air talent, and situations where
cable crosstalk is of concern.
User Controls and Status
Indicators
Three pushbutton switches, four LED
indicators, and two rotary controls provide
the user with a clear, easy-to-use inter-
face. One pushbutton switch controls the
status of the main output. This is the audio
output intended for on-air, announcement,
or other primary uses. Two LEDs display
the on/off status of the main output. Two
additional pushbutton switches control
the status of the two talkback outputs.
These are the audio outputs used to
communicate with producers, directors,
“spotters,” or other behind-the-scenes
production personnel. A status LED is
associated with each talkback button.
Two rotary controls allow the user to
adjust the level of the headphone output.
Flexibility
A large part of the Model 220’s unique
power is the ability to configure the
operation of the main output and talk-
back functions. To meet the needs of the
many specific broadcast and production
applications, a variety of button operat-
ing modes is available. The main output
button can be selected to operate from
among four modes. In the “push-to-mute”
mode the button performs a momen-
tary mute of the main output. In this way
a “cough” button function is created,
something typically required for television
sports broadcasting. In the “push-to-talk”
mode the button provides a momentary
active function for the main output. This
mode would be appropriate for applica-
tions such as stadium announcement. An
alternate action “latching” configuration
allows the button to enable or disable the
main output as desired. This is useful in
radio broadcasting, announce-booth, or
voice-over applications. The fourth mode
provides a hybrid function, supporting
both push-to-talk and tap-to-enable/tap-to-
disable operation. This operation is similar
to that found in many broadcast intercom
system user stations.
The two buttons associated with the talk-
back functions can be configured to oper-
ate from either of two modes. One of the
modes supports a “push-to-talk” function.
This is typically used for on-air broadcast
applications. The other mode provides a
hybrid function, the operation of which is