Studio Technologies M233-01151 - Manual (Page 7)

Model 233 User Guide Issue 5, November 2014
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
output. This feature makes the unit even
more powerful when used in live-event
applications, such as serving as a master
console for an orchestra conductor or
production director.
With all the available talkback flexibility,
the exact needs of many specific applica-
tions can easily be met. And, of course,
whatever configuration is implemented,
the audio quality will be excellent.
Dynamic Range Control
To enhance the Model 233’s talkback func-
tions, 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 compressor is always
used by the talkback functions. For flex-
ibility, the audio source for the main output
can be selected to be either the direct
output of the microphone preamplifier or
the output of the compressor. For on-air
applications the signal coming directly
from the microphone preamp would be
correct. But having dynamic range control
of the signal going to the main output can
offer increased performance for selected
applications. These could include stadium
announcement locations, award show
conductor positions, and use with non-
professional announcers during sports
events.
User Controls and Status
Indicators
Three pushbutton switches, four LED
indicators, and three rotary controls
provide users with a clear, easy-to-use
interface. One pushbutton switch controls
the status of the main output. This is the
audio output intended for on-air, stadium
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 talkback
functions. These are the audio cue signals
used to communicate with producers,
directors, “spotters,” or other behind-the-
scenes production personnel. A status
LED is associated with each talkback
button. Three rotary controls allow the
user to adjust the level of the headphone
output. Two of the controls are associated
with externally connected cue signals. The
third control is associated with the Model
233’s sidetone function, allowing the user
to monitor the signal associated with the
unit’s microphone input.
Flexibility
A large part of the Model 233’s unique
power is the ability to configure the op-
eration of the main output and talkback
functions. To meet the needs of the many
specific broadcast and production ap-
plications, a variety of button operating
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