Studio Technologies 230 2008 - Manual (Page 7)

Model 230 User Guide Issue 7, October 2008
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
mic output” or as an additional talkback
output. These features make 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 230’s talkback
functions, a studio-quality compressor
circuit is provided to control the dynamic
range of the signal coming from the mi-
crophone 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 used by the talkback
functions. This ensures that talkback
audio signals remain clear and intelligible
under all real-world conditions. In addi-
tion, dynamic range control is especially
important when talkback signals are being
routed to intercom channels.
User Controls and Status
Indicators
Three pushbutton switches, four LED
indicators, and two rotary controls provide
the user with a clear, easy-to-use interface.
One pushbutton switch controls the status
of the main output. This is the audio out-
put 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 talkback functions. These are
the audio cue signals used to communi-
cate 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 230’s unique
power is the ability to configure the
operation 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
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
discussed in the previous paragraph. The
hybrid mode is especially useful when the